Shapton RockStar 8000 Grit Sharpening Stone

Shapton's new RockStar stones cut fast, are very hard and long-lasting and leave a superb edge. They're a real pleasure to use, and extremely consistent.  Everyone loves Shapton Stones for their high quality and excellent performance!

The abrasive is extremely consistent and dense so you have a great feel and can produce very precise and clean edges, plus these have the convenience of splash-and-go sharpening (do NOT soak these stones).

These are essentially the same as Glass Stones, but double the thickness and with no glass backing plate, so while they have the potential to last longer because of the additional abrasive material, they could also be more fragile, so care should of course be taken when handling, using and storing them. If there is any difference between the RockStar and Glass Stones, the RockStar could be a bit softer and more prone to building mud (this is neither better nor worse, just a bit different) due to the required differences in manufacturing processes (but Shapton assures us that any differences should be VERY minimal and these should really be considered functionally identical to Glass Stones).

As with all magnesia-bonded stones, they are more prone to cracking than other types of bonding, so you should be sure to let them dry slowly (wrap in a damp cloth if need be, but be careful about enclosing them fully for long periods and having mold form), and keep them out of direct sunlight and avoid extremes of hot and cold. NEVER let them freeze or sit in the sun.

The Shapton stone holder (sold separately) is designed to fit these stones perfectly and is quite heavy and tall, providing a great workstation. The more affordable Naniwa universal/adjustable stone holder also works fine for these stones. As metal particles become embedded in the surface it won't sharpen as well, so a quick clean with a Shapton or Naniwa nagura/dressing stone will bring it back to full performance. And as you use the stone it's natural that it will dish (become concave) and so will need flattening.

Dimensions: 210mm x 70mm, 10mm thick. No case or stand included.
Shapton # 60217

Made in Japan.

Be sure to check out the Shapton FAQ.