Natural Arkansas Bench Stone
If you take sharpening seriously and consider your workshop your temple, this natural Arkansas bench stone deserves a place of honour. It is a larger variant of the legendary Novaculite, a metamorphic rock renowned for its extremely fine and hard structure. With a length of 150 mm (approx. 6 inches), this stone provides ample surface area for comfortable honing of longer blades, such as hunting knives, kitchen cutlery, or woodcarving chisels. The stone is securely housed in a wooden box, which not only protects it from damage but also serves as a stylish and functional addition to your workbench. With an estimated grit of 6000 to 8000, this is a tool for connoisseurs who demand an edge as smooth as glass. Further product information ...
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Natural Arkansas Bench Stone in Wooden Box 150 x 50 mm
Bench Use for Maximum Precision
This stone works best as a "bench stone." Thanks to the wooden box and significant weight, it remains stable, allowing you to guide the blade with both hands for maximum angle control.
- Oil Only: Always use with high-quality honing or mineral oil. The oil prevents the stone's pores from clogging with metal dust (glazing).
- No Water: Never use the stone with water if it has already been used with oil.
- Final Finish: This stone is not designed for repairing chipped edges but for the final polishing (honing) of an already sharp tool. It removes microscopic burrs and achieves a "wicked" sharpness.
Historical Insight
Before the advent of modern synthetic ceramics, the "Arkansas Stone" was the king of all sharpening stones. Mined in the Ouachita Mountains of North America, it was sought after by craftsmen worldwide for its unique properties. Joiners, carvers, and even watchmakers swore by it. Owning a large block of Arkansas stone was a sign that a craftsman cared about the quality of their tools. The wooden box nods to the traditional way of storing these valuable stones to keep them dust-free.
Care and Maintenance
After each sharpening session, wipe the stone's surface with a clean cloth to remove dirty oil and metal residue. If the stone becomes clogged ("glazed") over time, apply a generous amount of oil and use circular motions with your finger to loosen the debris before wiping it off. Keep the wooden box dry to prevent warping.
Technical Specifications
| Material | Natural Arkansas (Novaculite) |
| Grit | approx. 6000 - 8000 (Extra Fine) |
| Usage Type | Oil stone |
| Dimensions | 150 x 50 mm (5.9 x 1.97 in) |
| Packaging | Protective Wooden Box |
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