Whetstones 101: What They Are & How to Use Them

A whetstone is a flat, rectangular, or triangular-shaped tool used for sharpening and honing blades, such as knives, scissors, and chisels.

The surface of the whetstone is made of abrasive material, such as corundum or silicon carbide, and is used in conjunction with a lubricant, such as oil or water, to create a grinding surface.

The blade is moved across the surface of the whetstone at a specific angle to sharpen the edge and remove any nicks or dullness.

Whetstones come in various grits, ranging from coarse to fine, and are used to achieve different levels of sharpness depending on the intended use of the blade.

Whetstones vs Sharpener

Whetstones offer a more traditional and hands-on approach to sharpening, allowing for greater control and customization of the sharpening process. They also tend to produce a sharper edge because the user can control the angle and pressure applied to the blade. Additionally, whetstones can be used to sharpen a wider variety of blades, from kitchen knives to garden tools, and can be used to repair damaged or dull edges.

Sharpening systems, on the other hand, are often easier to use and can produce a sharp edge more quickly. They come in a variety of forms, including pull-through sharpeners, electric sharpeners, and carbide-tipped sharpeners, and they can be a convenient option for those who don't want to invest the time and effort into using a whetstone. Some electric sharpeners even have multiple stages to sharpen and hone the blade, which can be a convenient feature for those who want to maintain their blades without having to use multiple tools.

In conclusion, the choice between a whetstone and a sharpener comes down to personal preference, the intended use of the blade, and the desired level of control and customization in the sharpening process.

How to use whetstones?

Sharpening a knife with a whetstone involves several steps:

#1. Flattening the whetstone: Before using the whetstone, it's important to make sure that it is flat. A concave or uneven whetstone will make it difficult to sharpen the knife evenly. You can flatten the whetstone by using a flattening stone or by rubbing it on a piece of abrasive paper.

#2. Soaking the whetstone: If you are using a water stone, you need to soak it in water for at least 20-30 minutes before using it. This will prevent the stone from drying out and becoming clogged with metal particles during the sharpening process.

#3. Setting the angle: Hold the knife at the desired angle (usually between 10-30 degrees) to the whetstone and make sure to maintain that angle throughout the sharpening process. A common angle for kitchen knives is 20 degrees.

#4. Sharpening the blade: Apply light pressure to the blade and move it back and forth along the length of the whetstone. Make sure to sharpen the entire edge, from the tip to the base of the blade. Repeat the process on the other side of the blade.

#5. Honing the edge: After sharpening, use a honing steel or a finer grit whetstone to further refine the edge. This will remove any burrs and straighten out the edge.

#6. Checking the edge: To check the edge, try slicing a piece of paper or gently touch the edge with your thumb. If the knife is sharp, it should easily slice through the paper and you should feel a smooth, sharp edge.

It's important to note that sharpening a knife with a whetstone requires patience, practice, and attention to detail. It's also important to keep the whetstone lubricated and clean, either with water or oil, to ensure that the abrasive material remains effective and the metal particles are washed away.

How to choose whetstones?

Choosing the right whetstone can be a bit of a challenge, as there are many factors to consider, including grit, size, and type of abrasive material. Here are some things to consider when choosing a whetstone:

Grit: Whetstones come in different grits, ranging from coarse to fine. Coarse grits (such as 240-800 grit) are used for repairing damaged edges or removing nicks and chips, while fine grits (such as 1,000-10,000 grit) are used for honing and polishing the edge. A common starting point is a medium grit (such as 400-600 grit) for general sharpening.

Abrasive material: The most common abrasive materials used for whetstones are corundum and silicon carbide. Corundum is a naturally occurring mineral that is durable and effective for sharpening, while silicon carbide is a synthetic material that is less expensive but can be more prone to wear.

Size: Whetstones come in various sizes, ranging from small, handheld stones to large, bench-sized stones. Consider the size of the blades you will be sharpening and the amount of space you have available for storage when choosing the size of your whetstone.

Type: There are two main types of whetstones: oil stones and water stones. Oil stones are typically made of harder abrasive materials and are used with oil as a lubricant. Water stones are softer and are typically soaked in water before use. Water stones can also be more prone to wear, but they are easier to use and tend to produce a sharper edge.

Budget: Whetstones can range in price from under $10 to over $100, depending on the quality and size of the stone. Consider your budget when choosing a whetstone, as well as the frequency and intensity of use.

Ultimately, the best whetstone for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Consider the factors listed above, as well as any additional considerations, such as the type of blades you will be sharpening and the desired level of sharpness, when choosing a whetstone.

How to maintain

Maintaining your whetstone is important to ensure that it remains effective and lasts a long time. Here are some tips for maintaining your whetstone:

Cleaning: After using your whetstone, it's important to clean it thoroughly to remove any metal particles that may have accumulated during the sharpening process. You can do this by rinsing the stone with water or wiping it down with a damp cloth. For oil stones, you can also use a solvent such as mineral spirits to clean the stone.

Drying: After cleaning, it's important to make sure that the stone is completely dry before storing it. This will prevent any corrosion or mold from forming on the stone. You can dry the stone by leaving it in a warm, dry place for several hours or by wiping it down with a dry cloth.

Storing: Store your whetstone in a dry, cool place to prevent it from warping or cracking. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight or extreme temperature changes, which can cause the stone to crack or become brittle.

Protecting: If you use your whetstone frequently, consider using a whetstone holder or a rubber mat to protect the surface of the stone. This will prevent the stone from sliding around while you are using it and will help to keep it in good condition.

Re-flattening: Over time, the surface of your whetstone may become concave or uneven, which can make it difficult to sharpen your blades evenly. If this happens, you can re-flatten the stone using a flattening stone or by rubbing it on a piece of abrasive paper.

By following these tips, you can help to maintain the quality and effectiveness of your whetstone, ensuring that it lasts for many years of use.