10 Best Sharpening Stones 2025 in the United States

The SHARPAL 162N double-sided diamond sharpening stone is a solid choice for those looking to sharpen knives or tools quickly and effectively. It offers two grit levels: a coarse 325 grit side for fast edge setting and an extra fine 1200 grit side for honing and polishing. This grit combination covers most sharpening needs from rough sharpening to final touch-ups. Made with industrial monocrystalline diamonds on a thick stainless steel base, it’s very durable and sharpens up to five times faster than traditional oil or water stones.

Another nice feature is that it doesn’t require any oil or water to use, which keeps things clean and straightforward. The stone stays flat over time thanks to SHARPAL’s MirrorFlat technology, meaning you get consistent results without needing to flatten it regularly. It comes with a handy storage case that doubles as a non-slip base, plus an angle guide that helps you maintain the right sharpening angle, which is especially useful for beginners. The size (about 8 by 4 inches) is comfortable for most kitchen knives and tools.

One drawback is that it’s a bit heavier than some stones, but that also adds to its stability during use. Those who plan to sharpen very specialized or softer steel knives might want a finer grit option beyond 1200. For most users, including those sharpening hard materials like high-speed steel or ceramic, this stone performs well and offers good value, supported by SHARPAL’s 3-year warranty and solid customer satisfaction.

The Shapton K0702 Blade is a medium whetstone with a grit size of #1000, making it a versatile tool for sharpening knives and other blades. Its dimensions of 8.3 x 2.8 x 0.6 inches make it compact enough for easy handling, while still providing a sufficient surface area for effective sharpening.

One of the primary strengths of this sharpening stone is its grit size. Being a #1000, it serves well for both initial sharpening and for refining an edge, allowing users to maintain their knives effectively. The material used is durable and provides a good experience with easy cleanup, as it only requires hand washing after use. Additionally, the stone is lightweight at just 1.59 ounces, which enhances its portability, making it a great option for both home and on-the-go sharpening.

There are some considerations to keep in mind. For beginners, the #1000 grit may not be coarse enough for repairing heavily dulled or damaged blades, where a coarser stone might be more effective. Also, it does not come with a lubricant, which some users might find beneficial in preventing metal shavings from clogging the stone’s surface. While the absence of combination features limits its versatility, it excels as a standalone medium stone, suitable for those who frequently maintain their knife edges.

The DMT D8C Dia-Sharp Diamond Knife Sharpener is an 8-inch coarse diamond sharpening stone, designed to quickly restore dull and neglected edges. One of its standout features is the use of a diamond surface, which ensures faster and more efficient sharpening compared to conventional stones. The coarse grit (45 micron / 325 mesh) is particularly effective for repairing and honing knives, tools, and other edged instruments.

The construction is robust, durable, and guarantees consistent performance over time without forming grooves or hollows. This sharpener does not require messy oils as it can be used dry or with water, making the sharpening process cleaner and more convenient. The non-skid rubber feet add stability during use, enhancing safety.

On the downside, its coarse grit might not be suitable for those seeking a finer edge finish, as it primarily focuses on initial edge restoration rather than fine honing. Additionally, the synthetic material may not appeal to purists who prefer natural stones. However, its durability, efficiency, and ease of use make it a valuable tool for both professional and home use, catering to a wide range of sharpening needs. With its made-in-USA quality and reliable performance, this sharpening stone is a solid choice for those who need to maintain sharp edges on their tools and knives.