A medium sharpening stone, 1,000 grit. The quick cutting action establishes a basic edge, this is a good stone for most sharpening needs. Overall dimensions are 205mm x 75mm x 25mm. This stone has a vitrified bond and should be soaked for 10 to 15 minutes before use.
BESTER waterstones, manufactured by Imanishi in Kyoto, Japan have almost become the standard with Japanese professional woodworkers. They feature a moderately strong bond that allows abrasive particles to release quickly, maintaining a fast cutting rate, yet resist wear better. These stones behave similarly to a natural stone, the feedback tells you how fast it is cutting. Tests have shown they abrade O1, A2 and M2 steels at a rapid rate and remain flat just as long as slower cutting stones with stronger bonds.