Answer
Oct 01, 2025 - 04:22 AM
Thank you for your question!
Since you normally use metallic and resin CBN stones, a natural stone can be a very interesting complement to your progression.
Recommended First Natural Stones
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Jasper (Яшма) – a popular entry-level natural stone, fine-grained and consistent. It works smoothly and gives a refined edge.
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Black Arkansas – another classic choice. It’s dense, hard, and widely respected among sharpeners as a finishing stone.
These two are often recommended as a first step into naturals because they are relatively predictable and widely used in the sharpening community.
Benefits of Natural Stones Compared to CBN
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Different feedback: naturals cut more gently, and you’ll feel and hear a softer interaction with the steel.
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Edge quality: many users appreciate the “tooth + polish” balance — edges finished on naturals often feel stronger and more durable.
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Infinite lifespan: they wear down extremely slowly, meaning you can use them for decades.
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Cost efficiency: while some premium naturals are expensive, many Arkansas stones and jaspers are affordable and will last a lifetime.
⚠️ One thing to note: unlike CBN stones, grit rating is approximate for naturals. Each stone is unique, and performance varies more than with synthetic abrasives.
