Japanese Waterstones: IMANISHI Bester
The BESTER water stones, manufactured by Imanishi in Kyoto, Japan, feature a sharpening feel remarkably like that of natural stone. They are medium-hard stones, do not need very much water and cut metal quickly. In sharpening you hear and feel the effect of stone on the blade, but even so, when taking a look, you will be surprised by how quickly the stones cut. Those who have some experience with water stones will love the Besters, which offer a remarkably sensitive response and feel to the demands of the user when sharpening.
The stones, being relatively hard, do not wear very quickly. One should allow them to soak for at least five minutes before use. The coarser stones, to cut as quickly and easily as they are capable, will often need another short dip in the water after a few minutes of use. These stones work well on stainless as well as high carbon and tool steels. The 400, 4000 and 8000 grit stones are somewhat harder than the 700, 1000, 1200, and 2000 grit stones. The listed dimensions of the stones are approximate, as the Bester stones are usually a few millimeters bigger than the nominal sizes.
Imanishi Bester
to grind out chips, a first pass on very dull blades
first sharpenings and to change the angle of the bevel
Note: twice as thick as the other stones from this series.
Dimensions: 205 mm x 75 mm x 50 mm
Order nr. 312559
Price ✱€ 52.00
Imanishi Bester
to grind out chips, a first pass on very dull blades
first sharpenings and to change the angle of the bevel
Dimensions: 205 mm x 75 mm x 25 mm
Order nr. 312561
Price ✱€ 57.00
Imanishi Bester
Quick results
sharpening dull blades
Dimensions: 205 mm x 75 mm x 25 mm
Order nr. 312562
Price ✱€ 43.00
Imanishi Bester
Quick cutting
Standard grit for most sharpening needs
Dimensions: 205 mm x 75 mm x 25 mm
Order nr. 312563
Price ✱€ 45.00
Imanishi Bester
for finer work
This stone will leave a very sharp edge, but also removes a fair amount of material - perfect for cutting a secondary bevel, for instance.
Dimensions: 205 mm x 75 mm x 25 mm
Order nr. 312564
Price ✱€ 48.00
Imanishi Bester
We call this stone a "sharpening and honing stone" because it does, despite a relatively fine grain; still remove material. But at the same time it hones out the grooves or scratches left by the coarser grits. For many uses this stone is fine for the final honing.
Dimensions: 205 mm x 75 mm x 25 mm
Order nr. 312565
Price ✱€ 67.00
Imanishi Bester
For honing out fine scratches. The final sharpness is clearly better than with the preceding grit sizes.
Dimensions: 205 mm x 75 mm x 25 mm
Order nr. 312566
Price ✱€ 55.00
Imanishi Bester
For honing.
Dimensions: 205 mm x 75 mm x 25 mm
Order nr. 312569
Price ✱€ 62.00
Imanishi Bester
For final honing. Leaves a mirror surface! The ultimate kick for those in the know!
Dimensions: 205 mm x 75 mm x 25 mm
Order nr. 312567
Price ✱€ 73.00
Imanishi Bester
Sharpening and Honing with one stone!
Dimensions: 205 mm x 75 mm x 35 mm
Order nr. 312560
Price ✱€ 65.00
Menu
