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 SHAPTON Ha No Kuromaku Ceramic Whetstone (D-set) includes three stones with rough (#320), medium (#1000), and fine (#5000) grits, covering the key stages of sharpening from reshaping edges to achieving a polished finish. Made from ceramic, these stones are known for their durability and fast sharpening ability compared to traditional water stones. The size is compact and manageable at about 8 by 2.7 inches, making it easy to handle and store. While many sharpening stones require soaking in water before use, Shapton stones typically use a simple splash of water as a lubricant, which is convenient and less messy.

Because it offers a set of different grits, it suits users who want a versatile option for various sharpening needs, from dull knives to fine honing. One downside is that ceramic stones can wear down faster than some other materials, meaning they may need flattening or replacement over time. Also, the relatively narrow width might require more effort when sharpening larger blades.

This set is well suited for hobbyists or professionals seeking efficient ceramic stones for a range of sharpening tasks who are willing to perform occasional maintenance to keep the stones flat.