Shapton Kuromaku Japanese Whetstone #12000 Grit (Yellow) K0705 Shapton Professional

• Grit: 12000 (Yellow)
• SKU: K0705
• Whetstone Size: 210 x 70 x 15mm
• Weight: 900g
• Plastic Storage Case Included
• Professional Polishing Whetstone
• Made in Japan

To maintain the Shapton Kuromaku stones and keep their surface flat for a long lifespan, we recommend using a lapping plate. Choose from options such as the Jende Industries Glass Lapping Plate, Shapton Diamond Glass Lapping Plate, or the Shapton NAORU cast iron lapping system.

The Kuromaku stone is a Splash & Go stone, so soaking is not necessary. After sharpening, clean the stone and allow it to air dry naturally in a shaded position. Rapid drying can cause cracking, while leaving the stone in water can lead to degradation.

Q: Which face of the KUROMAKU series sharpening stones should I use?

A: You can use either face, but we recommend starting on the side where no letters have been printed.

Q: Recent KUROMAKU stones look different from the designs bought in the past. Is there any difference in spec?

A: No. The only change was in the printing design, not in the quality or specs of the stones.

Q: Are any of the KUROMAKU sharpening stones recommended for normal household knives?

A: We recommend the Orange Medium (1000) sharpening stone and Wine Fine (5000) finishing stone. If you intend to use only one stone, we recommend the Blue Medium (1500) sharpening stone.

Q: I want to try using "KUROMAKU Purple," but the 'Precautions' state it should be used after "KUROMAKU Melon." Would it be okay to use it for sharpening after "KUROMAKU Yellow" instead, as this is finer?

A: That would be fine with high hardness steel, but for blades made from softer materials, please do use "KUROMAKU Melon." This is due to the stones' physical characteristics.