A Harder Wearing 220 Grit
The T-901 Naniwa 220 Grit Pink Alumina Traditional Waterstone is similar to the 220 grit in the Naniwa Traditional line of stones, but it has been formulated to be harder wearing.
According to Naniwa
According to Naniwa themselves the comparison between the two stones can be summed up like this: "Both T-901 and T-102 (The "standard" Traditional 220 Grit Stone our item # NT-102) are vitrified sharpening stone. Abrasive of T-901 is pink alumina while T-102 is green carbide. In general, green carbide is harder than pink alumina so the grinding power of T-102 is more powerful than T-901. But its wear rate is high. Wear rate of T-901 is low so the flatness of its surface is longer than T-102.
Or put another way, if you want a 220 grit stone that will hold its flatness longer, this is the stone for you.
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.