08/26/2026
Aiiwatani Tomae Japanese Natural Whetstone (JNAT) β Koppa
Overview & Sharpening Characteristics
Mine & Strata: Aiiwatani (ηΈε²©θ°·η£) Tomae.
Working Face: Clean, uniform golden-buff Kiita tone with a very consistent surface texture.
Function: Excellent finisher for high-carbon kitchen cutlery, straight razors, or pocket knives. Offers smooth feedback, rapid swarf production with a light nagura or diamond plate, and leaves a refined, hazy kasumi contrast on clad steels with a crisp, toothy micro-bevel.
Condition & Flaws
Irregular Perimeter (Koppa): The stone has an irregular, non-rectangular shape with angled, natural edge cuts. There is a tiny line and off-color spot right at the corner - It does not seem to hinder the sharpening process and returned no negative feedback when tested.
Side Void & Fracturing: two minor chips along the rim - can be easily chamfered down when dressing the stone prior to first use.
Under-Side/Base Chipping: Edge chipping and minor stepped flaking on the base and along the chamfer line of the back. These do not impact the stability of the stone at all.
Thickness & Backing: The stone has moderate thickness with a raw, oxidized underside. All sides and back have been sealed with lacquare.
Available for immediate dispatch here:
https://dustbowlknives.com/products/aiiwatani-tomai-023
