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Shobudani Namazu・Natural Finishing Stone・Awasedo・Kyoto, Japan #103

Shobudani Namazu・Natural Finishing Stone・Awasedo・Kyoto, Japan #103

Regular price €320,00 EUR
Regular price Sale price €320,00 EUR
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Shobudani from Kyoto, stamped 菖蒲産 — from Shōbu — under the Kyoto natural-stone mark.

The face is a pale cream body carrying namazu, the catfish markings this valley is known for, with blue-grey patches and fine pink lines. The reverse is heavily stained in ochre and iron, and one edge is sealed in red urushi.

3,5 of 5 on our hardness scale, roughly 8000 grit. Shobudani gives a softer, more forgiving feel than the harder Kyoto layers and releases slurry readily, which makes it a patient finisher for kamisori and straight razors.

Supplied with its matching tomo-nagura, stamped 菖蒲谷産 — slurry raised from the same valley, the traditional way to work this stone.

You will receive the exact stone shown.

Full Description

This Shobudani natural finishing stone comes from the Shōbu valley in Kyoto, stamped 菖蒲産 under the Kyoto natural-stone mark. It carries namazu, the catfish markings the valley is known for, over a pale cream body. At 3,5 of 5 on our hardness scale it sits below the harder Kyoto layers: it releases slurry readily, cuts with a soft and forgiving feel, and finishes with a quiet kasumi rather than a bright mirror. That combination makes it a patient finisher for kamisori and straight razors, and a pleasant stone for single-bevel and carbon kitchen knives. It is supplied with its matching tomo-nagura from the same valley. You will receive the exact stone shown.

Materials

Natural Whetstone - Shobudani

Measurements

Length: 15,0 cm
Width: 7,0 cm
Height: 2,5 cm
Weight: 711 g
Hardness: ● ● ● ◐ ○ (3,5/5) hard

Care Guide

Sharpening Care Guide — Natural Japanese Whetstones

To preserve the character, performance, and longevity of your natural Japanese whetstone, please follow these care guidelines:

1. Keep the Stone Flat

Natural stones wear more slowly than synthetic stones, but regular flattening is still essential for controlled sharpening. Use a diamond lapping plate or a suitable flattening stone to maintain a flat, even surface. Avoid aggressive lapping unless necessary.

2. Use Water Only

Natural Japanese whetstones are designed to be used with water. Lightly wet the surface before use. Some stones benefit from a brief pre-wetting, while others should not be soaked for extended periods. Do not use oil or chemical additives.

3. Slurry Management

Depending on the stone, slurry may develop naturally during use. This is part of the sharpening process and should be managed gently. Avoid excessive pressure or artificial slurry generation unless intentionally desired.

4. Clean After Use

After sharpening, rinse the stone thoroughly with clean water to remove metal particles and residue. Use a soft brush if needed. Do not use soap, detergents, or abrasive cleaners.

5. Dry Slowly and Naturally

Allow the stone to air dry completely in a shaded, well-ventilated area. Avoid direct sunlight, heaters, or rapid temperature changes, as natural stones can crack if dried too quickly.

6. Store with Care

Store the stone in a dry, stable environment. Avoid damp locations and protect the stone from impacts or sudden temperature changes. If stored long-term, ensure the stone is fully dry before placing it in a box or wrapping.

7. Inspect Before Use

Before each use, rinse the surface and ensure it is free from dust, grit, or foreign particles. Any contamination may cause scratches on the blade and compromise sharpening results.

By following these guidelines, your natural whetstone will retain its unique sharpening characteristics and provide consistent, controlled results over time.
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