Comparing Naniwa Stones

Naniwa, a renowned manufacturer hailing from Osaka, Japan, boasts a diverse range of waterstones catering to various sharpening needs. With over 60 years of expertise in crafting quality waterstones, Naniwa has developed several stone lines, each possessing unique characteristics. These stones differ in hardness, wear rate, cutting speed, and other factors, offering sharpeners a plethora of options to choose from.

Having numerous choices can be overwhelming for those unfamiliar with Naniwa stones. Therefore, this article aims to simplify the decision-making process by providing a concise overview of each stone type along with a comparison in several key categories. Hopefully, this guide will assist you in selecting the most suitable stones for your sharpening toolkit.

The Naniwa Professional Stones strike a fine balance between fast cutting speed and a slow wear rate while providing excellent feedback. Considered among the best waterstones available, they offer:

• Hardness Rate: Hard and slow-wearing, these stones outlast others like the Lobster, Multi, and Traditional stones.
• Grit Options: Eight variants ranging from 400 to 10,000 grit.
• Cutting Speed: Impressively fast, outpacing even the Super Stones.
• Dimensions: 8 1/4" x 2 3/4" x 3/4" (210 x 70 x 20mm).
• Preparation: Almost splash-and-go, requiring minimal preparation time compared to other lines.
• Price: Premium, reflecting their high quality.
• Feedback: Excellent, offering arguably the best feedback among Naniwa waterstones.

The Naniwa S2 Super Stones excel in fine polishing with a splash-and-go design, boasting a 12,000 grit not found in other lines:

• Dimensions: 8-1/4" x 2-3/4" x 3/4" (210mm x 70mm x 30mm)
• Grit Options: Ten variants from 220 to 12,000 grit, offering the widest range
• Price: Upper-middle, providing quality at a relatively higher cost

The Naniwa Pocket Pro Stones mirror the Professional Stones but in a smaller size, offering a more affordable option with slightly fewer grit options:

• Grit Options: Seven variants from 400 to 5000 grit.
• Price: Mid-range, providing a balance between affordability and quality.
• Dimensions: 5 1/4" x 1 3/4" x 1/2" (135 x 45 x 15mm).

The Naniwa Traditional Stones strike a balance between cutting speed and wear rate, serving as practical soaking stones:

• Grit Options: Seven variants from 400 to 5000 grit.
• Price: Average, offering good value for quality stones.
• Dimensions: 8-1/4" x 2-3/4" x 3/4" (210mm x 70mm x 30mm).

Half the thickness of S2 Super Stones, the Naniwa S1 Super Stones maintain similar characteristics at a lower price point:

• Price: Lower, offering affordability without compromising quality.
• Dimensions: 8-1/4" x 2-3/4" x 3/8" (210mm x 70mm x 10mm).

Known for its hardness and superior polish, the Naniwa Jyunpaku Snow White Stone is a premium option within the Traditional Stones:

• Price: Premium, reflecting its superior quality.
• Dimensions: Comparable to Traditional Stones.

Combining two grits in one stone, the Naniwa Multi Stones offer efficiency at a lower price point:

• Hardness Rate: Softer and faster wearing than other Naniwa stones.
• Price: Low, offering affordability and versatility.
• Dimensions: Smaller size for convenience.

Dubbed the "Green Brick of Joy," the Naniwa Aotoishi boasts exceptional thickness and versatility, making it a favorite among sharpeners:

• Price: Upper-middle, offering value for its size.
• Dimensions: 8-1/4" x 2-3/4" x 2 1/8"" (210mm x 70mm x 75mm).

Economical and efficient, the Naniwa Lobster Stones are favored in fast-paced environments:

• Hardness Rate: Softer and faster wearing than other Naniwa stones.
• Price: Low, providing affordability without compromising quality.
• Dimensions: Varying sizes.

Featuring diamond abrasive, the Naniwa Diamond Stones offer exceptional cutting ability with water stone-like feedback:

• Hardness/Wear Rate: Very hard and slow-wearing.
• Price: Premium, reflecting their superior quality.
• Dimensions: Comparable to Traditional Stones.

Similar to Diamond Stones but in a smaller size, the Naniwa 135 Diamond Stones provide a more economical option:

• Price: Premium, offering affordability without sacrificing quality.
• Dimensions: Smaller size for convenience.

In conclusion, Naniwa offers a wide array of waterstones catering to various needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize cutting speed, wear rate, or affordability, there's a Naniwa stone to suit your requirements. By understanding the characteristics and differences between each line, you can confidently choose the perfect stones for your sharpening endeavors.