10 Best Sharpening Stones – For Razor Sharp Knives

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Daniel
Daniel
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Daniel is among our most talented writers: based on the dull expert reports he's able to make up a comprehensive, reader-friendly article which anyone can benefit from. Also read more
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Tom
Tom
Tom
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Initially being an engineering specialist, Tom has never stopped learning and acquiring other knowledge and skills. Now he’s involved in technical support for a well-known read more
Last updated: August 26, 2023
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You are smarter than the average person, and you know that not all sharpening stones are created equal, right? To the untrained eye, sharpening stones, all look the same, but in actuality, these stones are measured by the type of material they were made from, their dimension, weight, and particle size. All of these aspects are important because they will help determine what kind of sharpening stone you will need for the tools you want to sharpen.

For you, we’ve tested 15 and selected the 10 best sharpening stones, with the Sharp Pebble Premium Knife Sharpening Stone being our favorite. All the stones we chose are durable, can accommodate a wide range of blades and tools, and will give you the sharp edge you’re looking for every time.

Quick Summary

Top 10 Sharpening Stones Review 2024

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Features
  • Material: Aluminium Oxide
  • Weight: 2.02 lbs.
  • Dimensions: 7.25 x 2.25 x 1.00 inches
  • Particle size: 1000/6000 grit

More features: multipurpose; double-sided; professional-grade; bamboo base; easy to use; eBook guide

A great bundle where you do not need to compromise quality for the price. This bundle complex completes with a double-sided whetstone, a bamboo base, knife sharpening angle guide, as well as an informative instruction manual. The 1000 grit size is coarser and great for extremely dull knives, while the 6000 is used more for polishing. If you do not know which side to use, the company stands by the fact that their product is extremely easy to use. For those who are new to sharpening stones, there is even a free EBook included filled with helpful information and answers to frequently asked questions. The bamboo base is a beautiful finish to rest the stones on, and it is also very secure. The knife sharpening guide is perfect for those who are just starting with sharpening stones, and need more guidance. However, it is also great for more experienced users. It is a great tool to have on hand if you are working with a new blade, and need more stability. A great multipurpose sharpening stone that can be used on many different blades. This whetstone sharpener can be used on any kitchen knife set (steak knife, sushi knife, chef knife, etc.), but it is also sharp enough to sharpen an ax!

    What are our favorite features?
  • Great pricing
  • Comes with extra accessories
  • E-book included for new users
  • Super sharp stones can even sharpen a blade as big as an ax
    What could be better?
  • The glue that holds the product together is weak
  • Took longer to get blades to be fully sharp
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Features
  • Material: Aluminium Oxide
  • Weight: 7 lbs.
  • Dimensions: 18.3 x 11.7 x 2 inches
  • Particle size: 400/1000/6000 grit

More features: non-slip bamboo base; professional-grade; non-silicone rubber; flattening stone

Marketed as the “complete knife sharpening set,” this bundle comes with three different grit options: 400, 1000, and 6000. The 400 grit is a more tough and aggressive stone that is great for sharpening very dull edges. The 1000 grit is used for metals that are starting to dull. The 6000 is a very fine stone that has a very polished edge, which is great for metals that need to cut extremely well. Very easy to use, especially for beginners, due to the large size. The bamboo base is beautifully polished and very sturdy. Unlike other sharpening stone kits that offer a bamboo base, this base is a non-slip base to ensure both ease and safety. A flattening stone is also included in this set, which means you do not need to go out and buy your own. Flattening stones are important because they help sustain the life of your sharpening stone. Flattening stones are used to smooth out any unevenness on the surface or rough edges that is inevitable after many uses.  This bundle is made of quality silicon carbide and corundum (also known as aluminum oxide). The stones are not only bigger, but they are thicker as well. The stones measure 8″ x 2-¾”.

    Why are we impressed?
  • Bamboo anti-slip base to ensure the safety of the users
  • High-quality stones made of silicon carbide and corundum
  • Thicker and bigger stones make it easier to use and hold
    What negatives must you be aware of?
  • Aluminum oxide is known to be a skin irritant
  • May have to soak stones for longer than 15 minutes before use
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Features
  • Material: professional-grade white corundum
  • Weight: 1 lb.
  • Dimensions: 7.09 x 1.18 x 2.36 inches
  • Particle size: 3000/8000 grit

More features: silicone base; corrosion-resistant; heat-resistant; clearly demarcated

The best bang for your best sharpening stone set! Comes with the option of a 3000 grit and an 8000 grift. The 3000 grit is coarser, which means it can sharpen the edge of your knives very well. The 3000 is recommended on very dull blades, and need more than a touchup. While the 8000 grit is great for polishing and touchups, they are used on knives that are already quite sharp.  High-quality whetstone stones that are effective and inexpensive. The BearMoo sharpening stone is made from high-grade corundum, which is corrosion resistant and heat-resistant. Since it is heat-resistant, this BearMoo sharpening stone kit is great to use in the kitchen by the stove or in extremely hot weather. It is great to bring outdoors for camping, as it will not be affected by high temperatures. The 3000-grit side has been getting rave reviews, and for the price, it is hard to beat. It is easy to use with a very good silicon base grip to ensure that the product is not only easy to use but also very safe. The silicone base offers great grip power to ensure the product does not slip and slide around. Lightweight product that is easy to carry around and use.

    What are our favorite features?
  • Helpful and practical no-slip silicon base
  • Durable and high-quality whetstones
  • Heat resistant
    What could be better?
  • Customers prefer 3000 over 8000
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Features
  • Material: Corundum
  • Weight: 3.91 lbs.
  • Dimensions: 12.52 x 5.04 x 5.04 inches
  • Particle size: 400/1000 3000/8000 grit

More features: leather strop; flattening stone; non-slip bamboo base

A beginner-friendly, complete knife sharpening kit that is affordable and practical. This kit comes with a 400/1000 grit water stone ideal to sharpen very dull knives. The 3000/8000 grit water stone is used to refine the edges of the knives, which is perfect for sharpening an already sharpened blade. The coarse flattening stone will keep the water stone flatten at all times, and the non-slip bamboo board will hold the stones in place while sharpening to ensure safety and ease. The angler guider keeps the knife at the right angle while the leather strop is used to polish the blade as well as removing any burr on the knife. This set is also extremely easy to use and great for beginners: all that is needed for users to get started is to soak the knife sharpener kit in water for 10 minutes, and then it is ready to use!  Great value kit for the price! It comes with 400, 1000, 3000, and 8000, strop, angle guide, and a flattening stone for less than what other companies would charge for a single whetstone. Since it comes with four different grit levels, you can figure out what grit level is best for your blades. It is aesthetically pleasing to the eye and very clean looking as well. If you are new to whetstone sharpening, then this kit is a great place to start.

    Why did it make our list?
  • Great variety with four different grit size options
  • Includes extra accessories
    What is not ideal about it?
  • Stones are softer than average sharpening stones
  • The angle guide is great but does not fit all knife angles
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Features
  • Material: Corundum
  • Weight: 2.38 lbs.
  • Dimensions: 9.8 x 4.29 x 2.71 inches
  • Particle size: 1000/6000 grit

More features: non-slip rubber base holder; bamboo base; multipurpose; lifetime warranty

A 2-in-1 sharpening stone bundle- 1000 grit and 6000 grit hand-made high-grade white corundum available in a clean blue and black color combo. 1000 grit for sharpening a dull blade quickly and efficiently, which will flatten the notch and glitch. The 6000 grit is finer and is used to polish blades and to make the edges sharper. Knives that are dull or rusted are prone to get food stuck on them, which in turn breeds bacteria. This sharpening stone kit will easily get rid of this problem, so you can have sharp knives that will make cooking a lot easier, and you can also rest assured that your knives will also be hygienic. This kit is a great multipurpose use that you can take outside of the kitchen. Not only does it do well with kitchen and chef knives, but it also sharpens scissors, hunting knives, hatches, axes, blades, and razors very well. The company stands behind their so much product and to prove this, and they offer a lifetime warranty on their products. Not only is this product affordable, but it is also manufactured by a company that stands behind their product, so you do not have to worry about throwing your money away when you buy this set.

    What makes it stand out?
  • Sharpens larger blades such as axes and hunting knives very well
  • Lifetime warranty on the product
  • Great customer service
    Which disadvantages must you keep in mind?
  • Only offers two grit options versus other kits that offer more
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Features
  • Material: made with Alumina Oxide
  • Weight: 4.79 lbs.
  • Dimensions: 7.09 x 2.35 x 1.18 inches
  • Particle size: 400/1000 3000/8000 grit

More features: non-slip rubber base; bamboo base; flattening stone

This bundle comes with two stones and four grits, which makes it a great choice for someone who is wanting to expand on their kit! This kit comes with 400/1000 grit whetstone, 3000/8000 grit whetstone, flattening stone, bamboo base, and two anti-slip silicone bases. As a bonus gift, KnifePlanet will include a bonus link with informative articles and videos that will help beginners as well as advanced users. The four grit stones were great for those who want to add more sharpening stones to their collection. Due to its size, customers feel that they are sturdy and great for sharpening their blades. There are smaller, more compact sharpening stones out there, but because of their small size, these stones could be dangerous because it requires the user to hold the stand by hand. KnifePlanet is also known for their great customer service as they not only offer a lifetime guarantee on their products, but they are also great at getting back to their customers quickly. This sharpening stone set is also weighted at 4.79 lbs, making it a bit heavier than the other options on this list. While for some, that may be a con, for most customers, they appreciate a sturdier piece. It ensures that the product has some weight to it, and can hold the weight of their blade comfortably and effectively.

    Why are we impressed?
  • Four different grit size options
  • Sturdy bamboo base
  • Good weight
    What negatives must you be aware of?
  • Flattening stone included was not as effective as other flattening stones
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Features
  • Material: White Corundum
  • Weight: 1.23 lbs.
  • Dimensions: 7.09 x 2.36 x 1.18 inches
  • Particle size: 1000/4000 grit

More features: silicone base; non-slip

This high-quality double-sided knife sharpening stone kit comes with a 1000 grit side and a 4000-grit side. The 1000 grit is great for dull knives that need sharpening quickly while the 4000-grit side is finer and perfect for touchup. Chefic sharpening stone kits are made from high-quality white corundum that is corrosion-resistant and heat resistant. Sharpening stone does a great job of getting the blades extra sharp and works well for smaller blades such as pocket knives, which isn’t always the case for other sharpening stones. If you have smaller blades that need sharpening, then definitely give this set a try. This set is also great to use on kitchen knives, chef’s knives, scissors, straight razors, garden tools, and precision tools. This set comes with a non-slip silicone base that is easy to clean and easy to use. It is a great multi-use product that can be taken from the kitchen, the outdoors with ease. Weighing at a little less than 2 lbs, this set is lightweight and travel-friendly as well. Customers reported that after using this kit, their blades were sharp enough to even shave off small amounts of hair. This set from Chefic is also extremely easy to use, with minimum preparation time. Customers loved that they did not have to spend time cleaning the stones or soaking them for too long, which seems to be the case for other sharpening stones. The stones were also reported to absorb water well and quickly, under 15 minutes.

    What are its best features?
  • Made from high-quality corundum that is corrosion and heat resistant
  • Quick preparation time
    What could be improved?
  • Not recommended to use on serrated blades and ceramic knife blades
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Features
  • Material: metal
  • Weight: 12 oz
  • Dimensions: 7.4 x 3.7 x 1.6 inches
  • Particle size: 400/1000 grit

More features: silica gel base; safe to use; non-slip; lightweight; easy to carry; efficient

This sharpening plate is easy to use, convenient due to its small size and lightweight, which means you can take it with you everywhere. There are two sides: one 400 side grit that is coarser and the other 1000 side that is finer. What makes this whetstone plate so unique is its diamond abrasive material, which is more efficient than the usual whetstone sharpening stones. The diamond sharpening plate is also proven to be less damaging and abrasive than the whetstone sharpening stones. The diamond sharpening plate makes sharpening blades quick and easy. It is much faster to yield the results you want compared to the traditional whetstone and sandpaper. It is also mess-free and easy to clean up. The silica gel base ensures maximum stability and that your sharpening plate will not slip and slide. Very lightweight and portable, could be moved around with ease. The small size makes it easy to carry as well, and travel friendly. Metal material ensures that the sharpening plate is durable and built to last. Due to its size, it is great for sharpening smaller blades such as scissors, razors, and pocket knives, as well as the traditional kitchen knives and chef’s knives.

    What makes it special?
  • Lightweight
  • Unique diamond abrasive material
    What cons did we find?
  • The plate is too small for some customers
  • The size makes it hard to hold
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Features
  • Material: not specified
  • Weight: 1.5 lbs.
  • Dimensions: 8.54 x 3.98 x 2.8 inches
  • Particle size: 1000/6000 grit

More features: flattening stone; eBook; comes with a cut-resistant glove; non-slip base; detailed instructions

A great double-sided sharpening stone set, 1000, and 6000 grit. Most whetstone sharpening kits will include an angle guide, but they are much larger so they will not fit small knives. This kit also includes two knife sharpening kits to ensure that it will fit most blades. Even the most experienced users should still be careful when it comes to sharpening blades, and that is why it is important to have a stable, non-grip silicon base. The base that comes with this kit is a water-resistant base, and unlike other sharpening stone kits that use bamboo or wood, the silicon base ensures that it will not mold. The water-resistant base will also make the product easier to clean. Unlike other whetstone sharpening kits, the Priority Chef Premium Whetstone Sharpening Kit fits on a raised box, which rests the stones at a good height to better sharpen your knives. This set is also very compact because all the accessories given can fit into the base of the box, which makes it great for on the go. This kit also includes a level 5 cut-resistant glove, which is great for extra protection. If you are new to sharpening stones or even if you are an expert, safety is the most important feature when it comes to working with sharp blades. If you are giving this kit as a gift, you could also feel comfortable knowing that you chose a very user-friendly kit.

    What makes it special?
  • Comes with a pair of cut-resistant gloves
  • Comes with many accessories
    What cons did we find?
  • Silicon base was not as sturdy as some customers had hoped
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Consumer Engagement
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8.7
8.8
Features
  • Material: steel with diamond coating
  • Weight: 3.29 lbs.
  • Dimensions: 11.7 x 3.1 x 1.6 inches
  • Particle size: 400/1000 grit

More features: sturdy; long-lasting; double-sided; can be used with many types of instruments

Diamond stone 8 inches double-sided with 400 and 1000 grit level. The 400 side is coarser and greater at sharpening dull or dulling knives while the 1000 grit level is great for honing, polishing, and maintenance. This tool gets the job done, and it is easy to use. The diamond-cut stone makes it easy to get a sharper finish faster. It is also great for beginners since it can be used on many types of blades. This model is made with heavy steel that is made to last and is extremely sturdy. Even though it is made with sturdy materials, it is lightweight, weighing less than 5 lbs. Not only is it compatible with the usual kitchen knife sets, chef’s knives, and razors, but it is also great for bigger blades. Blades such as hatchets and axes. However, it can also be used for woodworking cutting tools, skate blades, jade, glass tile chamfering, and other super tough tools in the industry. The diamond stone also gives off a high appearance and looks more aesthetically pleasing compared to other sharpening stones. It would make a unique gift due to its appearance and its steel with a diamond coating exterior.

    Why did it make our list?
  • Unique diamond cut stone
  • Sturdy and long-lasting
  • Multi-use product
    What is not ideal about it?
  • The plate is not as flat as it should be to be effective


Things to Consider

With so many sharpening stones and sharpening stone kits on the market, it could be difficult and overwhelming to find the best product for you. To help narrow down this search, it is important to narrow down what it is you are looking for and to go from there.

Why do you need to use a sharpening stone?

Sharpening stones are important because they help maintain a blade’s sharp edge and keep it from getting dull. Have you ever tried to cut meat with a dull knife? Or how about cutting a string of yarn on dull scissor blades? Exactly, it is not fun. Sharpening stones help keep and maintain the sharp edge of your expensive blades, and the great news is, most sharpening stones are inexpensive and easily accessible. The important thing to keep in mind when using a sharpening stone is knowing the difference between honing and sharpening. You hone your blade when the blade is dull. You sharpen your blade when the blade is damaged.

Features to consider before you buy a sharpening stone

10 Best Sharpening Stones - For Razor Sharp KnivesWhen it comes to buying the right sharpening stone, there are many key features to consider. Some of these features include material, weight, dimensions, particle size, base grip, accessories, and lastly, the safety of the product. These features are important because despite looking similar, not all sharpening stones are the same. Knowing what key features are important to you will help you narrow down which stones or stone kits are the best for you.

Material

Aluminum oxide is probably the most common material when it comes to creating sharpening stones. It is known for its hardness and strength, and it is normally used as a substitute for industrial diamonds. White corundum is great because it is corrosion-resistant and heat-resistant, ensuring that outside factors will not affect sharpening stones made from this material. Metal is very abrasive, and some say more effective than the traditional sharpening stones materials. It is said to be less damaging to the blade as well.

Although some people confuse steel as a metal, it is an alloy. Since it is an alloy, that means it is not a pure element; therefore, it is not a metal. What this means in terms of sharpening stones is that it is not as strong, but that does not mean it does not get the job done. Many sharpening tools made of steel are very long-lasting.

Weight

Sharpening stone sets weight anywhere from 1 lb. to 5 lb. The weight of the sharpening stone matters depending on where you plan on using it and on what blades. If you just need a kit to keep in the kitchen, then the weight does not matter much since you will not be taking it anywhere else. If that is the case, then the BearMoo Whetstone Premium 2-IN-1 Sharpening Stone is one you should consider. However, if you plan on traveling with it and need it to sharpen larger objects such as an ax or a hatchet, then you would want something with a bit of weight on it, such as the Knife Sharpening Stone by LANBAOSHI.

Dimensions

When it comes to sharpening stones, size does matter, especially if you are a beginner. Many kits provide angling guides to help new users get used to sharpening their blades.

The bigger the sharpening stones are, the easier it will be to use.

Take the Sharp Pebble Extra Large Sharpening Stone Set, for example. Many customers love this set because they stated how the stones are not only bigger, but they are thicker as well, which makes them easier to hold.

Particle size

Particle size is something to keep in mind because it is one of the most important factors when it comes to buying a sharpening stone.

Is your knife super dull? If so, you do not want to purchase a sharpening stone with a fine-grit option such as 6000 or 8000.

You would want to go for a coarser grit option, such as the 400. If you are not sure which particle size is the right one for you, go for a kit that gives you options, such as the Finew Knife Sharpening Stone Kit. It comes with four grit option sizes.

Non-slip base

10 Best Sharpening Stones - For Razor Sharp KnivesIf you have ever tried to cut anything on a slippery board, then you know how important it is to have a strong, non-slip base. Most sharpening stone sets come with bamboo or some sort wood base, such as the Sharp Pebble Premium Knife Sharpening Stone and the Sharp Pebble Extra Large Sharpening Stone Set. However, if you are not a fan of wooden finishes, then try out the Whetstone Sharpening Stone by Chefic, which has a silicon base.

Accessories

What makes these kits standout sometimes are the extra accessories that come with them. There is no better way to get more for your money than to get extra accessories included in your bundle. The Finew Knife Sharpening Stone Kit is one of the best sharpening stone kits to buy if you are looking to get some extra accessories added on. The kit comes with the two sharpening stones, handy leather, a strap, as well as a flattening stone.

Safety

One of the most important factors when it comes to sharpening blades is safety. After all, you are dealing with sharp blades. If you are a beginner or if you are thinking of buying a sharpening stone set as a gift but are nervous about the safety features, then consider looking into the PriorityChef Whetstone Knife Sharpening Stone. It comes with cut-resistant gloves to ensure that your hands are always protected.

FAQ

Is it safe to use a sharpening stone?

Sharpening stones themselves are quite safe because there are no sharp edges, but using them to sharpen blades can be quite dangerous. To ensure that you do not cut yourself, look into the PriorityChef Whetstone Knife Sharpening Stone. It is a great kit that comes with cut-resistant gloves to protect your hands when you are working. Whether it is your first time using sharpening stones or you have done it more times than you can count, you can never be too careful. This kit is also great if you want to give it to someone who is looking into a new sharpening stone kit but has little or no experience with it.

What can you sharpen with a sharpening stone?

You can sharpen any sort of blade with a sharpening stone, but the most common use for them is for knives. You can also use them to sharpen pocket knives, scissors, razors, hatchets, axes, matches, etc.

Do sharpening stones need any special maintenance?

Yes, over time, you will see that your sharpening stones are not working as well as they once did. If this is the case, then that means you need to take care of them a bit more. Do not worry; most of these kits come with accessories that will help you maintain the life of your sharpening stones. A flattening stone, for example, like the one included in the Sharp Pebble Extra Large Sharpening Stone Set, is used to keep the sharpening stones nice and flat. If your sharpening stones are too bumpy or ridged, then it will not work as well. As for diamond sharpening stones, or any sharpening stones that you want to use wet, make sure to use water as a lubricant only and not oil. Once you have used oil, water will no longer work as a lubricant. After each use, let the sharpening stones dry completely before you use them again.

Our verdict

While each sharpening stone mentioned offers great value for the price, we would highly recommend these three as our top choices. Our editor’s choice is Sharp Pebble Premium Knife Sharpening Stone. The price point is great for this bundle, and aside from coming with two sharpening stones, it also comes with a bunch of great accessories. Perfect for someone who is just beginning, or for someone who wants to try out a new kit without spending a ton of money.

Our premium pick is Sharp Pebble Extra Large Sharpening Stone Set. It comes with not two but three sharpening stones in 400, 1000, and 6000. A great choice if you want to experiment with different grit sizes.

The best value is BearMooWhetstone Premium 2-IN-1 Sharpening Stone. Sharpening stones are made professional grade white corundum so you can rest assured that this stone is made to last. These are some of the best sharpening stones on the market, so you really cannot go wrong with one of these kits.

9,9
Total Score
Sharp Pebble Premium Knife Sharpening Stone - Editor’s Choice
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