This kit contains 2 stones with a total of 3 grits. This matched set of 8" x 2" stones gives you a Coarse Oil Stone, Fine Oil Stone and Soft Arkansas. This kit is kit represents a great value in a stone kit under $50.
Step 1 - Combination Coarse/Fine Oil Stone
The first step in sharpening is to create the proper bevel angle on your edge. This is best done with a coarse stone. A coarse stone sharpens more quickly than a finer stone. Using a proper coarse stone means that you will not have to spend extra time on your finer stones. Our Combination Oil Stone is made in the USA of Aluminum Oxide abrasives. After you've completed sharpening on the coarse side, you can progress to the fine side. The fine side of this stone will greatly enhance the edge created by the coarse side. If your knife already has a well shaped bevel, you can skip the coarse stone and start with the fine. The fine will prepare your knife for the next step in sharpening.
Step 2 - Soft Arkansas Stone
The next step in the sharpening process is to further refine the edge that you've created with your Oil Stone. The Soft Arkansas Stone is finer than the Aluminum Oxide Stone and will produce a sharper edge.
Q. How fine is the Soft Arkansas Stone?
A. Being a natural stone there is not a specific grit number but it graded to be roughly a 600 to 800 grit. This is noticeably finer than the Fine Oil Stone. It is a great stone for the price.