Kobayashi Shoji Amakusa Red Natural Stone (500-800)

From the mines of Kyushu, Japan, the Amakusa stones have been used as a general purpose whetstone since the Sengoku period in the 15th century.

This Amakusa stone is the Red version - often referred to as "Torato" which translates to "Tiger Stone", describing the red stripes all throughout the natural stone. This Red Amakusa has an equivalent grit rating of around 500 to 800, suitable as an Aratoishi (荒砥石 Coarse Whetstone) and will cut relatively quickly. Compared to synthetic stones, this Red Amakusa will leave a finer scratch pattern that is less noticeable and easier to polish away. As such, if you're looking to polish your blade or get a nice Kasumi finish, this stone is a great place to start. 

Note: As these are natural stones mined from a quarry, it is normal for the stones to have varying colours, stripes, texture, chips on the edges or impurities within the stone. 

Dimensions: 50 x 70 x 205mm