Skip to product information
1 of 4

Aiiwatani Tomae

Aiiwatani Tomae

Regular price $340.00 USD
Regular price Sale price $340.00 USD
Sale Sold out
Shipping calculated at checkout.
Logo for GOVX ID, a service used to verify military, first responder, nurse or teachers to qualify them for discounts

Military & First Responders get a 10% discount! click to verify.

dimensions

• Length: 6-7/8" (175mm)
• Width: 2-3/8" (60mm)
• Height: 1-3/8" (35mm)
• Weight: 1.85Lb (843g)

Discover the Aiiwatani Tomae: A JNAT for the Discerning Sharpener
Unearth the hidden potential of your blades with this exceptional Aiiwatani Tomae Japanese Natural Whetstone. Renowned for its unique combination of hardness, refined slurry, and distinctive "frost" finish, this stone is a treasure for those who demand the very best in sharpening performance.
Robust Hardness for a Lifetime of Sharpening:
With a hardness rating of 4, this Aiiwatani Tomae offers remarkable durability and longevity. It stands up to rigorous use, ensuring a consistent and reliable sharpening surface for years of sharpening enjoyment.
Refined Slurry for Precise Control:
Experience the precision and control afforded by its moderate slurry production (2). This allows for a clean and efficient sharpening process, providing clear feedback as you work towards achieving an impeccably sharp edge.
Distinctive "Frost" Finish for Exceptional Cutting:
Unlock a new dimension of sharpness with the unique "frost" finish this stone imparts. It leaves a subtly textured surface that offers a balance of keenness and bite, ideal for a wide range of knives and tools.
Key Features:
* Hardness: 4 (Excellent durability)
* Slurry: 2 (Controlled sharpening)
* Finish: Frost (Unique, subtly textured edge)
* Origin: Aiiwatani, Japan (Known for high-quality JNATs)
* Appearance: Distinctive layered appearance with rich color variations
Benefits:
* Sharpen a wide variety of blades with precision and finesse.
* Experience the tradition and artistry of Japanese natural whetstones.
* Achieve a distinctive "frost" finish that enhances cutting performance.
* Enjoy a durable and long-lasting sharpening tool that will become a cherished part of your sharpening collection.
Embark on a journey of sharpening excellence with this Aiiwatani Tomae JNAT. Order yours today and elevate your sharpening experience!

care instructions

​Initial Inspection & Cleaning: Before use, gently inspect your Japanese natural whetstone (JNAT) for any loose grit or debris, and wash the surface with clean water and a soft brush.
​Soaking Guidelines: Understand your specific stone's hardness; softer stones (like Aizu or Amakusa) generally require a brief soak of 10 to 20 minutes, while harder, finer finishing stones (like Tomae or Suita) often perform best as splash-and-go stones requiring only surface hydration.
​Avoiding Thermal Shock: Never submerge a cold or dry stone in hot water, and avoid exposing your JNAT to extreme temperature shifts, which can cause cracking or structural failure.
​Slurry Generation: Build a natural abrasive slurry using a diamond plate, coarse stone, or a matching nagura (such as a Tsushima Nagura) to jump-start cutting action and condition the surface for your blade steel.
​Water Maintenance: Keep the stone adequately lubricated with clean water throughout the sharpening session, periodically rinsing away accumulated swarf to maintain optimal feedback and cutting speed.
​Drying Process: After sharpening, rinse the stone thoroughly under clean running water and allow it to dry completely in a well-ventilated, shaded area away from direct sunlight and artificial heat sources.
​Long-Term Storage: Store your dried JNAT in a stable environment where it won't be subjected to heavy impacts, freezing temperatures, or high humidity fluctuations that could compromise its integrity.

View full details