The Naniwa Chosera sharpening stones (also branded as Naniwa Professional Stones) are widely regarded as premium water stones made in Japan, prized by chefs, knife collectors, and woodworkers for their fast cutting speed, excellent feedback, and durability.
What Are Chosera Stones?
Originally called “Chosera”, these are now sold internationally as Naniwa Professional Stones. They’re high-end synthetic sharpening stones known for:
- High abrasive content
- Harder binder matrix (compared to Naniwa’s softer “Super Stones”)
- Low soaking requirement (only 2–5 minutes)
- Smooth and fast sharpening action
The 1×2 Tear Drop Slip Stone Set from Naniwa Chosera is a high-quality sharpening set designed for fine detail work and honing tools with curved or concave edges. Here are the key features and uses:
Features:
- Shape and Size:
- The tear drop shape is versatile, allowing for sharpening a variety of tools with different profiles.
- The stones are small (1×2 inches), making them ideal for precision sharpening in tight spaces or on smaller tools.
- Material Quality:
- Made from Naniwa’s Chosera series, which is known for its high-quality, magnesia-bonded sharpening stones.
- Provides excellent sharpening performance, with a fast cutting action and consistent particle distribution.
- Grit Variations:
- The set usually includes different grits for various stages of sharpening, from coarser grits for initial shaping to finer grits for finishing and polishing.
Uses:
- Sharpening Carving Tools: Great for sharpening gouges, V-tools, or other carving tools with curved or irregular edges.
- Refining Small Edges: Ideal for smaller knives or tools where precision is required.
- Maintaining Concave Surfaces: Perfect for tools like hook knives or spoon carving tools where the curved shape of the slip stone matches the blade’s profile.
Sharpening Tips:
- Keep the stone wet for best results and to prevent clogging.
- Start with a coarser grit to shape the edge, then progress to finer grits for polishing.
- Use the curved and pointed edges of the slip stone to match the contours of the tool you’re sharpening.
Maintenance Tips
- Use a flattening plate (like Atoma 140) every few sessions.
- Always rinse and dry after use to avoid cracking.
- Store in a dry, cool place—not in water long-term.
