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 Norton IM313 Knife Sharpener Kit is a well-rounded tool for anyone looking to keep their kitchen and utility knives in top shape. The set includes three oil stones with varying grits: a coarse 100 grit for repairing edges, a medium 150 grit for sharpening, and a fine 320 grit for honing. This combination allows you to effectively address different sharpening needs, making it a versatile choice for both beginners and experienced users. The self-contained bench sharpening unit is designed to hold the stones securely while you work, which adds to its usability. Additionally, the integrated oil reservoir helps keep the stones lubricated, minimizing friction and improving sharpening efficiency.

However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. The stones are relatively small at 0.3 x 8 x 2 inches, which may not provide enough surface area for larger knives or tools. This could be a challenge if you're working with particularly wide blades or heavy-duty items. Also, while the kit includes an angle guide for precision, some users may find it takes practice to perfect their technique, especially if they are new to using sharpening stones.

The plastic holder and case add convenience for storage and transport, yet they may not feel as sturdy as some metal alternatives. Lastly, while the kit is priced reasonably for the quality it offers, those looking for a more premium experience might want to explore other options. This sharpening stone kit is an excellent choice for home cooks and hobbyists who want to maintain sharp knives with ease, but it might not meet the demands of professionals or heavy users looking for large-scale sharpening solutions.

The KING Whetstone Starter Set is a good option if you're looking to sharpen kitchen knives with precision. It features a two-sided ceramic stone with 1000 grit on one side for basic sharpening and 6000 grit on the other for a smooth, polished finish. This combination suits general kitchen knives and stainless steel cutlery well, helping keep blades sharp enough for cutting tough meat or other food items. The stone is fairly durable and made in Japan, known for quality sharpening stones.

A helpful addition is the included knife angle holder, which guides the blade during sharpening to maintain the right angle, making the process easier and more accurate for beginners. The stable plastic base keeps the stone secure during use. You also get a quick-drying wiping cloth to clean your knife afterward, which adds convenience. The stone size is compact, about 9 inches long, making it easy to handle but still large enough for most kitchen knives.

One point to keep in mind is that because it's a ceramic stone, it needs to be used with water as a lubricant, which is typical but requires a bit of practice to avoid uneven sharpening. Also, the set is best suited for home cooks rather than professional chefs needing very specialized stones. If you want a reliable and beginner-friendly sharpening set that covers basic to fine sharpening and includes helpful accessories, this KING whetstone set is a solid choice.