Best Knife Sharpening Stones for 2024

We analyzed top picks from leading reviewers to find the best for every need
Published: February 21st, 2024
Last Updated: May 8th, 2024

🔪Hey there! Whether you're slicing away in a professional kitchen or just enjoying some home cooking, having a sharp knife really ups your game. A dull knife? It's a recipe for frustration and potential kitchen mishaps. Investing in a good sharpening stone can really change things for the better.

We've sifted through a ton of reviews and feedback to bring you the best knife sharpening stones out there. Let's dive in!

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Overall Best: King Whetstone Starter Set

KING Whetstone Starter Set Include 1000/6000 Grit Combination Whetstone made in Japan, Knife Angle Holder, B&B Japan Original Wiping Cloth and Stable Plastic Base

The King Whetstone Starter Set stands out as the overall best knife sharpening stone for its versatile and user-friendly design. This dual-sided whetstone features a 1000-grit side for sharpening dull blades and a 6000-grit side for honing and polishing. It comes with a non-slip base and an angle guide, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned pros. In our research, this set consistently improved knife sharpness and proved easy to use, even for novices. Its durability and effectiveness make it a staple for any kitchen.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$49.88 at Amazon

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Still curious about the KING Whetstone Starter Set? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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Does the KING Whetstone Starter Set actually come with all the advertised accessories?
So, the KING Whetstone Starter Set is supposed to come with a 1000/6000 grit combination whetstone, which is great because you get both the basic sharpening and fine finishing in one. The manufacturer also mentions that it should include a knife angle holder to help keep the right angle while sharpening. However, from what we've found, there have been some hiccups with the accessories actually showing up in the box. It turns out that not everyone gets everything that's advertised—sometimes, the angle holder and a wiping cloth don't make it into the package. Some folks have reported that while they really liked the quality of the whetstone itself, they were bummed about not getting the full set of accessories. There have been instances where people only received the whetstone without the angle guide and cloth, which can be pretty frustrating. If you're going to buy the KING Whetstone Starter Set, it might be smart to check everything as soon as you get it to make sure all parts are there. If anything's missing, it's a good idea to contact whoever you bought it from right away to sort it out. Even though these occasional mix-ups happen, most people seem to find the whetstone works really well for sharpening knives. It's definitely good for getting a sharp edge on various knives, especially when you’ve got all the bits and pieces to make the sharpening process smoother. Just keep an eye out for those missing parts, and you'll be in good shape!
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How effective is the KING Whetstone at sharpening different types of knives?
The KING Whetstone Starter Set comes with a dual grit stone, a knife angle holder, a cloth for wiping, and a plastic base. The company describes it as having a 1000-grit side for general sharpening tasks and a 6000-grit side for a finer, polished finish. According to our research, this setup works really well for keeping kitchen knives sharp, whether you're using a chef's knife or a paring knife. A neat feature is the knife angle holder, which is especially handy if you're new to sharpening. It clips onto the back of the blade to help you maintain the right angle when you're sharpening. Some folks found this really useful to get the hang of it and achieve a nice, consistent edge. However, just a heads up—there have been mentions of some kits arriving without some parts, like the angle holder or cloth. If this happens, contacting customer service might sort it out. But despite these occasional snags, the actual stone itself gets a lot of praise for its effectiveness and quality. In short, the KING Whetstone Starter Set does a good job of sharpening different knives and is generally well-regarded, making it a solid pick for both newbies and seasoned cooks.
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How do you use the KING Whetstone 1000/6000 grit combination stone?
Using the KING Whetstone 1000/6000 grit combination stone is pretty straightforward and can really improve the sharpness of your knives. According to the manufacturer's description, it includes a knife angle holder and a wiping cloth to help make sharpening easier and more precise. Just a heads up, though—some folks have ended up with packages missing these extras, so if that happens, it's best to contact the seller or the marketplace for a replacement. Once you're sure you have everything, here's how to get started: 1. **Preparation:** Soak the whetstone in water for about 10-15 minutes. This keeps it from drying out and helps create the slurry needed for sharpening. 2. **Positioning:** Put the stone on its plastic base on a flat surface for stability. If you have the knife angle holder, use it to maintain the right sharpening angle. 3. **Sharpening:** Start with the 1000 grit side to fix any blade defects and bring the edge back. Hold your knife at the right angle—usually between 15 to 20 degrees—and gently slide it across the stone, going from heel to tip with light pressure. Do this several times. 4. **Polishing:** Flip to the 6000 grit side to polish and refine the edge. Use the same sweeping motion and keep it consistent. 5. **Checking:** Keep an eye on the blade's sharpness and adjust your technique if needed. Occasionally rinsing the stone helps keep it in top shape. 6. **Finishing:** Once you're happy with the sharpness, rinse both your knife and the whetstone. Use the wiping cloth to dry the blade. If you run into any problems with the stone, reaching out to KING's customer service could be helpful since they do have a satisfaction guarantee. With some practice, you'll have your knives sharpened like a pro using this whetstone!
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Runner-up: Cangshan 7-Piece Kitchen Knife Care & Sharpening Kit

The Cangshan 7-Piece Kitchen Knife Care & Sharpening Kit offers much more than just a sharpening stone. This comprehensive kit includes cut-resistant gloves, blade polishing oil, a leather strop, a microfiber cloth, an angle guide, and a wooden stand. The 1000/6000 grit stone quickly sharpens and hones blades, making it efficient for maintaining knife edges. While it may be on the pricier side, the additional accessories provide excellent value and make it an all-around package for those serious about knife care.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$40.99 at Amazon

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Budget Pick: KERYE Japanese Whetstone Sharpener Set

KERYE Japanese Whetstone Sharpener Set - 400/1000 3000/8000 Grit Water Stones, Flattening Stone, Honing Guide, Cut Resistant Gloves Blue & Red

The KERYE Japanese Whetstone Sharpener Set is our top budget pick, offering great value without skimping on quality. This set includes two dual-sided stones with grits ranging from 400 to 8000, making it versatile enough for both repairing and polishing blades. Essential accessories such as a bamboo base, angle guide, and cut-resistant gloves enhance its usability, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious home cooks who still want reliable performance.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$43.97 at Amazon

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Still curious about the KERYE Japanese Whetstone Set? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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Is the KERYE whetstone set good value for money?
If you're thinking about getting a whetstone set that's easy on the wallet, the KERYE Japanese Whetstone Sharpener Set could be worth considering. Here's a closer look: ### Comprehensive Kit for Beginners One great thing about the KERYE set is that it's pretty beginner-friendly. The manufacturer's product description says it comes with everything you need to get started: whetstones, a honing guide, a leather strop, and even cut-resistant gloves. It's not just for kitchen knives; you can use it for chisels and other tools that need sharpening. ### Learning Curve and Instructions Sharpening blades can seem tricky, but from what we found, this set is manageable for those new to sharpening. The instructions are clear, but like anything new, it takes some patience and practice. Our research shows that some folks have found online tutorials helpful to get the hang of the technique and pressure needed. ### Grit Range & Performance You've got a couple of stones here: a 400/1000 grit and a 3000/8000 grit. This gives you the option to go from basic sharpening to a nice polish. However, we noticed there are some inconsistencies reported about the grit ratings, especially with the higher ones. Keep that in mind if you're looking for a super fine finish. ### Quality and Value Okay, so it might not stack up to high-end options like the [Shapton Kuromaku stones](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DShapton%2BKuromaku%2Bstones%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), but for the price, the KERYE set offers decent quality. It's a great starting point for whetstone sharpening, but if you're used to top-tier stones, it might not meet your expectations. For beginners, though, it's versatile and offers solid value. In summary, the KERYE Japanese Whetstone Sharpener Set is a good choice for beginners looking to dive into whetstone sharpening. It balances ease of use with decent sharpening capabilities. Just remember, like any skill, it takes practice to get really good at it.
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What are the actual grit levels of the KERYE 3000/8000 stone?
The KERYE 3000/8000 stone is part of the [KERYE Japanese Whetstone Sharpener Set](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DKERYE%2BJapanese%2BWhetstone%2BSharpener%2BSet%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20). According to the manufacturer's description, the set includes various double-sided whetstones, including the 3000 and 8000 grit levels. The 3000 grit is great for refining the blade's edge without taking off too much material, while the 8000 grit is perfect for getting a super polished, razor-sharp finish. The set also comes with a few helpful accessories like a non-slip base, an angle guide, and a flattening stone, according to the manufacturer. Plus, they throw in cut-resistant gloves to keep your hands safe. However, our research found that some people received their sets without certain pieces, like the gloves. If that's the case for you, it's a good idea to contact the seller directly. Most folks report having these issues sorted out by reaching out directly, usually getting the missing parts sent over. If you bought it through Amazon or a similar platform, their customer service can often handle these kinds of situations smoothly, typically without needing to send back the whole set. All in all, the KERYE 3000/8000 stone is a solid component in a full sharpening kit designed for everything from the initial sharpening right to the final polish. It's a handy option whether you're just starting or have some experience sharpening at home.
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How effective is the KERYE Japanese Whetstone Sharpener Set for beginners?
If you're just starting out and want to keep your kitchen knives in good shape, the KERYE Japanese Whetstone Sharpener Set could be a good pick. It comes with four different grit levels: 400, 1000, 3000, and 8000, so you’ve got a range of options for different sharpening needs. Here's a quick rundown on how to use them: Start with the 400-grit stone to fix any nicks and reshape really dull blades. Move on to the 1000 grit for refining the edge and making it sharper. The 3000 grit is perfect for adding more sharpness, and if you want a super fine edge for precision tasks, finish with the 8000 grit. A handy tip—make sure to soak the stones in water before using them. This is something a lot of folks find crucial for getting the best results. Some have mentioned the 8000 grit stone isn't quite as impressive as they hoped, but with some practice, you should still manage to get your knives nice and sharp. For beginners, the honing guide included is a nice bonus. It helps you maintain the right angle—which can be super helpful while you're learning. They've also included some clear instructions and the basic tools you'll need. But sharpening knives isn’t an instant skill; it takes time to perfect. Watching a few online tutorials might give you an extra boost in technique. According to our research, people who have used this set appreciate the clear instructions and quality of materials. It's designed with beginners in mind, so with some patience and practice, it seems like a solid way to keep your knives in tip-top condition.
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Best for Professionals: Norton IM200 Knife Sharpener Kit

Norton IM200 Knife Sharpener Oil Stone Sharpening Stone Kit with Coarse /Medium Crystolon and Fine India Stones, Sharpening Stone Oil and Knife Angle Guide

The Norton IM200 Knife Sharpener Kit is aimed at professional chefs and serious home cooks who demand high standards for their blades. This kit includes three long-lasting stones (coarse, medium, and fine grit) that cover comprehensive blade maintenance needs. Detailed instructions and robust build quality make this kit reliable and effective for achieving quick and efficient sharpening, ensuring that your knives are always kitchen-ready.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$108.72 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the Norton IM200 Knife Sharpener Kit? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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Is the Norton IM200 good for sharpening kitchen knives?
Hey there! If you're considering the Norton IM200 for sharpening your kitchen knives, it seems like a pretty solid choice. This kit comes with three different stones designed to tackle various sharpening needs: a 100 grit stone for fixing up really dull blades, a 150 grit for general sharpening, and a 320 grit stone for getting those final touches just right. The manufacturer's product description highlights how user-friendly it is, whether you're starting out or have some experience under your belt. From our research, this kit does well with regular kitchen sharpening tasks. One thing folks seem to like is how you can easily rotate the stones in the holder, which has rubber feet to keep it steady on your countertop. A heads-up, though: some people in our research noted that there's a bit of wobble during use when rotating the stones, so a few prefer taking them out and using them one at a time for more control. And even though it includes an angle guide, developing your own steady hand over time might yield better results. All in all, despite a few minor quirks, the Norton IM200 gets good reviews for bringing life back to dull knives efficiently. So, if you're tired of dealing with blunt blades, this kit might be worth checking out to keep everything sharp in your kitchen! 😊
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What are the grit levels of the Norton IM200 sharpening stones?
The Norton IM200 sharpening stone kit includes a set of three stones, each with a different grit level to handle various stages of sharpening. First, you have the coarse crystolon stone, which is at about 120 grit. It's great for fixing up edges, dealing with nicks, or tackling really dull knives. This stone cuts quickly, so it's perfect for getting things started. Next up is the medium grit stone, usually around 320 grit. It's pretty versatile and acts as a bridge between coarse and fine sharpening. It'll help hone the edge further after using the coarse stone, so your blades end up sharper and ready for more general cutting tasks. Lastly, there's the fine india stone with a grit level of about 600. This one's for polishing and refining the edge to get that razor-sharp finish. Whether you're slicing a tomato or making neat cuts in meat, this stone can help make your knives super precise. The stones are each 8 x 2 x 1 inches, suited for a range of knife sizes. They come mounted on a non-slip base, which helps keep everything stable while you’re sharpening. As for the kit's plastic angle guides, our research shows mixed opinions. Some find them a bit tricky to keep steady, especially if you’re new to sharpening. With practice, though, or by checking out some instructional videos, you can definitely get the hang of it—or consider using different angle guides if needed. Overall, the Norton IM200 stones offer a solid way to get your knives sharpened, honed, and polished. There's a bit of a learning curve, sure, but with practice, they can really enhance your sharpening game.
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Does the Norton IM200 wobble or rock during use?
Wondering if the Norton IM200 Knife Sharpener wobbles or rocks during use? From what we've gathered, stability isn't really a common issue with this sharpener. It seems to have a sturdy design that keeps everything in place pretty well. However, the surface you use it on can play a big part. If you're sharpening on an uneven or slippery spot, you might notice some instability. To avoid any movement, try setting it up on a flat, stable surface. Putting a damp cloth or a non-slip mat underneath can also help keep things steady. The sharpener comes with three oil stones in different grits (100, 150, and 320), which are handy for different sharpening stages. The manufacturer's description mentions these, and people have found them useful for various blade maintenance tasks. It does include a knife angle guide to help with consistency, but using it might take some getting used to. Some folks found it helpful after a bit of practice. If you think you might struggle with it, checking out some online tutorials or trying different methods could come in handy. Overall, when set up correctly on a steady surface, the Norton IM200 usually stays put. It might take a little practice to get the hang of it, but it's a good option if you're willing to invest the time to learn its system.
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Best Diamond Stone: DMT DuoSharp Plus Bench Stone

Diamond Machining Technology (DMT) 8-in. DuoSharp Double-Sided Diamond Whetstone Bench Stone, Fine/Coarse Grit Sharpener with Base (WM8FC-WB)

For those in need of a durable and high-performing sharpening stone, the DMT DuoSharp Plus Bench Stone is an outstanding option. Featuring two grits (325 and 600) with a diamond surface, it ensures rapid sharpening and long-lasting performance. This stone is particularly effective for hard steel blades and offers the advantage of not requiring soaking, making it both less messy and more convenient to use. It is a top pick for those seeking efficiency and durability in their sharpening tools.

Lowest at Amazon
$70.17 at Amazon
Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$68.77 at Home Depot

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Still curious about the DMT DuoSharp 8-inch Whetstone? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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What's the difference between the coarse and fine sides of the DMT WM8FC-WB?
The DMT WM8FC-WB DuoSharp Double-Sided Diamond Whetstone is pretty nifty because it offers both a coarse and a fine side, which serve different purposes when you're sharpening stuff. The coarse side, which is 325 mesh grit, is great for more heavy-duty jobs. So, if you've got knives that have seen some wear and tear or outdoor tools that are really beat up, this side will help restore them quickly. It's like this side is meant for the tougher jobs that need more of a makeover. The fine side, on the other hand, has a 600 mesh grit. It's perfect for those final touches, bringing your blades to a sharp, smooth finish. If you want that razor-sharp edge on your kitchen knives or something like your favorite pocketknife, this side is the way to go. From what we've found, people really dig the DuoSharp’s consistency and effectiveness on a wide range of blades. One cool thing is that you don’t need any oil to keep it working well—just use it dry or with some water, which is pretty low maintenance if you ask me. The manufacturer mentions this in their product description too. It also has a stable, non-skid base, so when you're sharpening, everything stays put. This really helps if you don't want any slipping around while you're getting the job done. There's a bit of variation in how folks perceive what exactly constitutes 'coarse' or 'fine,' which makes sense since people have different experiences with sharpening tools. But overall, it seems like it’s a well-made and reliable tool, especially considering it's made in the USA. So, the DuoSharp is a solid option with its dual-purpose design, making it easier to keep your knives sharp and ready to go.
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How effective is the DMT WM8FC-WB for sharpening kitchen knives?
If you're wondering about the DMT WM8FC-WB for sharpening kitchen knives, from what I can tell, it's a pretty solid choice. It's got this nifty dual-surface feature with a coarse side for getting those dull blades back in shape and a fine side to give them that really sharp edge. So, if your knives have seen better days, this whetstone could definitely help. The cool thing is, you don't need any messy oils with this one—just a little water will do. That makes it super convenient and easy to take care of. The manufacturer talks about using monocrystalline diamonds, which apparently speeds up the whole sharpening process compared to traditional stones. From our research, folks seem to love how versatile it is. While it's great for kitchen knives, it also works on other stuff like pocket knives, chisels, and plane blades. So, if you need to keep a variety of tools sharp, this could be your go-to. People generally seem to agree that it saves them time and helps keep a long-lasting edge. However, a few people have mentioned that the grit can wear down if you use it a lot. If you're planning to do heavy-duty sharpening often, you might want to consider having other grit options on hand. But overall, the feedback is pretty positive. In a nutshell, if you're after a reliable sharpening stone for both your kitchen knives and other tools, the DMT WM8FC-WB is worth checking out. Its dual-sides and durable diamond surfaces make it a good pick for anyone serious about keeping their tools sharp.
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How long does the DMT WM8FC-WB 8-inch DuoSharp diamond sharpening stone last?
The lifespan of the DMT WM8FC-WB 8-inch DuoSharp Diamond Sharpening Stone really depends on how you use it. This stone is built with a dual-surface design. One side is a fine diamond grit for keeping tools sharp, and the other is coarse for reviving dull edges. The manufacturer describes it as suitable for various sharpening tasks, from kitchen knives to lawnmower blades. From what we found, it seems folks generally consider it a sturdy, long-lasting sharpener both at home and in professional settings. It's often noted for being more durable than [traditional whetstones](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dtraditional%2Bwhetstones%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) since you don't need messy oils—just water or even dry sharpening does the trick. Plus, it has a good surface area for different tool sizes. However, there's something to keep in mind about the coarse side. While effective for lots of tasks, some have mentioned it might lose its roughness quicker than expected with heavy or frequent use. So, if you're often working on very blunt tools or need to do a lot of grinding, you might want to explore other [DMT stones](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DDMT%2Bstones%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) with specialized grits. Overall, though, the feedback is mostly positive. People like its sturdy build and how it consistently sharpens with ease. If you're seeking a durable and versatile option for various sharpening jobs, the DMT DuoSharp comes recommended. It's a solid tool that many find valuable in their sharpening toolkit.
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