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King Japanese Waterstones Products

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King Waterstones, also known as Ice Bear Waterstones, are manufactured by Matsunaga Stone Co., Ltd., the oldest and most renowned maker of Japanese sharpening stones. Based in Osaka, Japan, Matsunaga has been producing high-quality waterstones since 1948 and is celebrated for its King and Sun Tiger brands. King stones are trusted by professionals and enthusiasts worldwide for their consistency, ease of use, and reliable sharpening performance.

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Learn More About King Japanese Waterstones

King Japanese Waterstones brand information

What features do King Waterstones have?

King Waterstones are made from aluminum oxide abrasive in a resin bond, which gives them a relatively soft and responsive feel compared to many Western stones. As you use a King Waterstone, the abrasive particles dull and fracture, allowing the stone to progressively act like a finer grit over time. This self-renewing action means King Waterstones can serve as finishing stones later in their life, providing a smooth, polished edge. The softer composition also means the stones cut quickly but require regular flattening to maintain optimal performance.

King Japanese Waterstones brand information

Do King Waterstones need to be soaked?

Most King Waterstones should be soaked for 5–15 minutes before use, depending on the specific model. Soaking saturates the pores, allowing swarf to be flushed away and fresh abrasive particles to be exposed. After use, medium and coarse King Waterstones can be stored in water if used frequently, but fine stones (6000 grit and above) and all natural stones should not be stored in water. Simply wet them before each use to prevent damage. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for each stone to avoid softening or cracking.

King Japanese Waterstones brand information

How do you use a King Waterstone?

To use a King Waterstone, keep the surface wet throughout sharpening to ensure smooth action and prevent clogging. Begin with a coarser grit to restore the edge, then progress to finer stones for honing and polishing. When moving to finer grits, allow a slurry to build up on the stone-this slows the abrasion rate and helps achieve a finer finish. For the final stages, use light pressure and let the slurry do the work for a polished, razor-sharp edge. Regularly flatten your stones to maintain a consistent sharpening surface and extend their lifespan.