Japanese Coarse Waterstones

The very coarse 240 grit stone cuts with amazing speed, but as is the nature of these stones, wears somewhat quicker than an oilstone. However it can easily be re-trued, so this massive 205 x 75 x 50mm lump is going to last a long time, use for badly nicked edges. Slightly smoother is the 400 grit stone (200mm x 63mm x 30mm), excellent for reforming the bevels on worn plane irons and chisels. Finally in this category is the 800 grit stone, a top quality Ice Bear brand stone and a real must in the waterstone armoury; this stone is used to flatten the backs of blades and form the edge, it leaves the metal dull but smooth. The 800 grit also measures 200mm x 63mm x 30mm.