For Hard Steels
The T-211 Naniwa 1000 Grit Traditional Waterstone for Hard Steels is similar to the 1000 grit in the Naniwa Traditional line of stones, but it has been formulated to have more grinding power. This increased grinding capability makes it well suited for very hard steels.
According to Naniwa
According to Naniwa themselves the comparison between the two stones can be summed up like this: "Both are vitrified sharpening stones. Both use White Alumina as their abrasive. However their combination formula are different. T-211 is an advance model of T-210 (The "standard" 1000 grit Traditional Stone our Item #NT-210). But the grinding power of T-211 is better than T-210, it is suitable to sharpen hard knives." They cite Hard steel as HRC 60+.
Naniwa goes on to say: "Among Japanese chefs, T-210 (Again, the "standard" 1000 grit Traditional Stone our Item #NT-210) is more preferable because there is a compatibility between this stone and Japanese steel knives." Or put another way, the T-211 Naniwa 1000 Grit Traditional Waterstone for Hard Steels is generally regarded as being for non-Japanese knives with very hard steels.
Each stone measures 8 1/4" long, 2 3/4" wide and 3/4" thick. The stone is thick enough to provide many years of sharpening.
The Naniwa Traditional Water Stones are an excellent balance between price and features. You get the quality and attention that Naniwa gives all their stones, but don't have to pay the higher price of their more expensive lines of stones. Unlike the Super Stones (now called Sharpening Stones) these have a traditional bonding that absorbs water. We recommend soaking before use.
Made in Japan.