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Japanese Knife Care & Buying Guides

Soaking vs Splash-and-Go Whetstones: Preparing Yours Correctly

Illustration of a whetstone with water droplets on its surface beside a water jug and folded cloth

Identify your waterstone’s preparation method, distinguish soaking from splash-and-go use, and plan sensible drying and storage.

Posted in Knife care, Sharpening, Whetstones

How to Flatten a Whetstone: Checking the Sharpening Surface

Illustration of a gridded whetstone on a holder beside a flattening plate, water bowl and folded cloth

Check a whetstone for uneven wear, choose a compatible flattening tool, understand the pencil-grid check and build a practical surface-maintenance routine.

Posted in Japanese knives, Knife care, Sharpening, Whetstones

Honing Rod or Whetstone? Choosing Care for a Japanese Knife

Illustration of a chef knife, honing rod and whetstone laid separately on a wooden surface

Compare honing rods and whetstones through actual Shun and GLOBAL guidance. Identify what your tool does, check compatibility and know when sharpening is needed.

Posted in Honing, Japanese knives, Knife care, Sharpening