## Soft and Hard Arkansas sharpening stones.


Characterizing for these stones is the high grain density. As a result the Arkansas sharpening stones are very hard and waterproof. They are available in grain sizes ranging from approximately 400 to 10.000. Based on these grain sizes the stones are characterized as Soft Arkansas, Hard Arkansas, Hard Black Arkansas, Surgical Black Arkansas and Translucent Arkansas. With the exception of the Translucent Arkansas stones, which have a light colour and are 'translucent', the stones are darker as they become harder. The Surgical Black Arkansas stone is thus the darkest stone available.


## Oil stones: for years of sharpening pleasure


Arkansas stones work best when combined with oil. The oil makes sure the sharpening residue is more easily removed. In addition, you will experience less resistance while sharpening. Oil stones also wear out less quickly. As such you can enjoy them for years and only have to lap them occasionally.

Arkansas sharpening stones

Arkansas sharpening stones

The Skerper Arkansas natural sharpening stones come from the mountains of the American state carrying the same name. The stones are mined, cut to size and expertly flattened. There are various versions of these Arkansas stones, in five different grit sizes. From restoring to polishing the edge: with Skerper Arkansas natural stones you will have the right sharpening stone for each step in the sharpening process.

Skerper Arkansas

Skerper Arkansas

With a Hapstone whetstone, you are sure to get the best whetstones for your sharpening system. With the different materials and grit sizes, bring your knives to the desired sharpness level. From coarse grit sizes for reshaping a blunt knife to ultra-fine stones for polishing the edge. All stones are fully compatible with all Hapstone systems and fit effortlessly into the stone holders. Whether you are a fan of natural Arkansas stones, synthetic Shapton Pros or Idahone stones, Hapstone always offers the right choice.

Hapstone sharpening stones

Although stones are mined in many places all around the world to be used as sharpening stones, there are great differences in the way they work. Each type of stone has a different composition. Even amongst sharpening stones from the same mountains you can often find clear contrasts. Factors that play an important role in the proper functioning of a natural sharpening stone are the grain size, the shape of the grains and the way they are bound together.


## Where are natural stones mined?


There are a couple of mountains known for the mining of natural stones (which, of course, still need to be cut to size and flattened). Two important natural stone sources are the Belgian Ardennes and the American Ouachita Mountains in Arkansas. In addition, in the French-Spanish Pyrenees and the Dolomites (Italy) you can find usable natural stones.


The Arkansas stones are comprised of novaculite, a material which can only be found in these mountains. The grain density which leads to a very hard, waterproof stone is of great importance here. Depending on the part of the mountain range where they are mined, Arkansas stones are available with a relatively low grain size (approximately 400 to 600), but also with a very high grain size (approximately grain 10,000).


## Arkansas stones are oil stones


The sharpening stones from the Ouachita Mountains are best used in combination with oil. It is because of the extreme grain density. The oil removes the sharpening residue more easily and leaves you with less resistance while sharpening. The main advantage of oil stones, compared to water stones, is that they don't wear out as fast. They often last for years. The disadvantage is the hardness which ensures that sharpening takes a relatively long time because the stones remove little material.


## Belgian chunks from the Ardennes


Coticule whetstones, formerly known as Belgian Chunks come from the Ardennes. The grain size of these sharpening stones is difficult to determine. The remarkable thing here is that you can determine the coarseness of the stone yourself. The thicker the slurry you create, the lower the grain size (which varies between 1000 and 16,000). Adding a lot of water naturally leads to a thinner slurry and therefore a more polishing effect.


Another tip to get a finer 'grain' is to use talcum powder instead of water. The smoothness of the edge is also largely determined by the amount of pressure applied when sharpening. The less pressure, the flatter and therefore sharper the edge.

Natural sharpening stones

## Reasons to choose a Skerper sharpening stone 

Skerper is an excellent choice for beginners and professionals alike because of the many options! Skerper whetstones are available in a wide range of grain sizes to make your knives razor-sharp again. The cool thing about Skerper is that it doesn't matter if you have no experience with sharpening; besides the fact that there is something for everyone, we have extensive explanations on our website to help you get started. For example, are you unsure [which sharpening stone or grit size to start with](kato://content/migrated_topic_46)? Or have you figured that part out, but do you need some more information on [how to sharpen using a sharpening stone](kato://content/migrated_topic_61)? With a Skerper sharpening stone and advice from Knivesandtools, you can't go wrong! 

 

## Skerper series 

### Skerper Basic sharpening stone: top-quality entry-level stone 

The Skerper Basic series offers the right starting point to successfully sharpen your knives. From affordable sharpening stones with multiple grain sizes to the practical pull-through sharpener. The Skerper Basic products have an excellent price-quality ratio and are suitable for both amateur and advanced sharpeners. 

 

### Skerper Professional sharpening stone: sharpen like an expert 

The Skerper Professional sharpening stones make it possible for anyone to achieve a professional sharpening result. These stones have an excellent price-quality ratio! The sharpening stones are extremely effective and hard, so they sharpen your knives quickly and they barely wear out. Additionally, the knife won't 'bite' into the stone. This makes sharpening easier and more enjoyable. The stones are big enough that you can easily sharpen bigger kitchen knives as well. The thickness of the stones guarantees a long lifespan. Skerper Professional water sharpening stones will last for many years! 

 

### Skerper Arkansas sharpening stone: natural sharpening stones 

Skerper Arkansas natural sharpening stones are made from novaculite. This mineral is extracted in the Ouachita Mountains in Arkansas, which is the only location in the world where you can find novaculite. Thanks to the special cryptocrystalline structure, these stones delicately remove material. The stone will retain its shape and effective sharpening function for a long time, without you having to lap or level the stone. This makes the Arkansas stones unique! There are various versions of the Skerper Arkansas stones, with up to five different grain sizes. 

 

### Skerper Glass Stones sharpening stone: Splash & Go 

Skerper Glass Stones are sharpening stones that offer razor-sharp results. The sharpening stones work according to the Splash & Go principle. Simply put: add a splash of water and you are good to go. The sharpening stones are made from top-quality aluminium oxide to ensure they have a long lifespan, and they are easy to use and provide the best results. 

 

## Skerper product types 

### Skerper strops: the finishing touch 

The leather Skerper strops offer ultimate sharpening results. [Stropping](kato://content/migrated_topic_59) is the way to a mirror-smooth finish. By polishing your knife with a Skerper strop, you're able to remove tiny imperfections on the edge of your knife, so the knife will be razor-sharp and the edge can shine like a mirror. From large double-sided strops to small strops for on the road, with a Skerper strop your knives will become even sharper! 

 

### Skerper Dressing Stone and Flattening Stone: maintenance 

It's unavoidable: if you're using Skerper sharpening stones, you will have to maintain them. Before or after every time you sharpen your knife, you should pull the Skerper Dressing stone over the sharpening stone. This will keep the stone clean and straight! Have your sharpening stones become a bit hollow? Time for more serious maintenance with the Skerper Flattening Stone! 

 

### Skerper axe sharpening stone: perfect for large tools 

The axe sharpening stone is perfect for sharpening large tools. Not just axes! Think of machetes, lawnmower blades and even shovels. The round shape of this sharpening stone ensures that you can easily sharpen by hand. This is the preferred sharpening method for large tools. 

 

### Skerper sharpening accessories 

In addition to the sharpening stones, Skerper also offers practical sharpening accessories like the sharpening stone holder. This practical holder ensures your sharpening stones stay in place as you sharpen your knives. The holder can easily be adjusted with the set of adjustable screws. This makes it possible to attach whetstones of up to 22 cm in the holder. Additionally, there's the Skerper Sink Bridge sharpening stone holder, an indispensable accessory when sharpening your knives with sharpening stones. This adjustable bamboo wood sharpening stone holder can be placed over the sink to make sure the water will fall directly into the sink. Never worry about a wet table or work surface again! 

 

## About Skerper 

Skerper is a brand specialising in high-quality sharpening stones for knives and tools. The range includes whetstones, sharpening steels, strops and sharpening accessories. Thanks to this wide range, Skerper is an excellent choice for advanced sharpeners and beginners alike! So, it doesn't matter if you are inexperienced; with Skerper products and Knivesandtools' explanations, you are guaranteed to have razor-sharp knives again in no time.

Skerper 

The [Edge Pro Apex](kato://category/edgeproapexsystem) and the [KME Precision Knife Sharpening System](kato://category/kmesharpenersbrand) are both highly accurate and ingenious sharpening systems. But how do you choose between two sharpening systems that are both so close to perfection? In this side-by-side comparison, we'll explain all the similarities and differences.

## What's included with the Edge Pro Apex 1, 2, 3 and 4

The Edge Pro Apex sharpening system is available in four different versions. The base is the same, but the number of sharpening stones and other accessories differs. This allows you to choose which set best suits you and your budget.

## What's included with the KME D4 and R.P.S.H. COMBI KIT

The KME has only two versions. The [KME D4](kato://product/KMKF-D4) and the [KME R.P.S.H. COMBI KIT](kato://product/KMKF-CBO). The only difference between these two sharpening systems is the type of sharpening stones. The D4 has four diamond sharpening stones from 150 to 1500 grit. The R.P.S.H. COMBI KIT has one extra coarse diamond sharpening stone, two aluminium oxide sharpening stones, and one natural Hard Arkansas sharpening stone.

Because of these different versions of both sharpening systems, we will only discuss the fundamental differences and similarities between the basic sharpening systems in this comparison article.

Edge Pro Apex vs KME Precision Knife Sharpening System

There are so many necessary fundamental skills for a woodsman to have in their arsenal. From fire lighting, to camp craft, water purification and knotmanship, just to name a few. It can be overwhelming when you start your outdoors journey to know where your focus should lie, and what skills you should master. With that being said, arguably, one of the most fundamental skills any bushcrafter or outdoor enthusiast can focus on is tool maintenance.  


## Sharpen your skills


With the right knowledge and practice, a belt knife or an axe is going to allow you to thrive comfortably in the woods, making it possible to construct or craft anything you  may need around camp and in some cases can mean the difference been having a fire to cook on and purify your water to going to bed cold and hungry.  


This is why it’s important that tools are kept sharp, clean and ready for any job thrown at them. A dull knife or axe is more dangerous than a sharp one, with unnecessary force  and pressure used with the tool, slipping and messing up is a lot more likely. Incurring an injury due to lack of tool maintenance is inexcusable to a woodsman. As the old saying goes; “look after your tools and they will look after you”.


Yes, it’s true that things like edge geometry, steel compositions and Rockwell hardness are all part of the rabbit hole of knowledge that is outdoor tools, and to some, this may seem like an overwhelming subject to get into. But honestly, with a few basic pieces of understanding, with knowing how your knife or axe was designed and how it should be sharpened, you will be well on your way to hair popping edges on every cutting edge in your house!    There are so many options out there when it comes to sharpening, and everybody will have their preferred way to keep their tools in check. There are everything from traditional Japanese whetstones, industrial diamond coated files, ceramic plates, wet and dry sandpaper and Arkansas Stones to name a few.

Skerper Arkansas Stones: Expert Review by Padraig Croke

Skerper Arkansas Stones: Expert Review by Padraig Croke

Sharpening stone, whetstones and water stones: we often come across these terms. Also on our own website. But what are the differences between these terms? Or: are they even different at all?? We offer you an insight into this semantic discussion.


Why not start with ‘sharpening stones’. It is the collective term for all stones you use to sharpen knives, chisels, scissors, axes, in short everything with an edge. There are natural sharpening stones that are taken directly from nature, and artificial sharpening stones that are produced in a factory. The last group is often categorized based on the sharpening material used, or the country of origin. We sell, for instance, ceramic sharpening stones, diamond sharpening stones and Japanese sharpening stones.


## Whetstones


Another term often used for sharpening stones is whetstone. Both terms mean exactly the same. After all to whet is to sharpen! It is a rather dated term but one that is still used regularly.  

The materials used for these sharpening/whetstones are very diverse. Factory stones are mostly made from aluminium oxide, ceramics or diamond. The latter means: they have a diamond-coated sharpening layer, mounted to a steel or aluminium sheet. Natural sharpening stones, such as the [Ardennes Coticule](kato://content/migrated_pageid_247) stones consist of grenades, while stones from the American [Arkansas mountains](kato://content/migrated_pageid_303) have novaculite as an abrasive.


## So what are water stones?


The best sharpening stones (or whetstones) come from Japan. At least that is the generally accepted view, one we gladly endorse. After all, the Japanese are absolute experts when it comes to sharpening. Japanese sharpening stones are made from different materials and should generally be used in combination with water. This creates a ‘slurry’, because the water mixes with the loose sharpening particles. The advantage is that sharpening is easier and faster. In addition, the material that is removed immediately drains away because of the water. As such no metal particles can get caught in the stone which could cause scratches on the knife.


It is therefore not that surprising that Japanese sharpening stones are also often called water stones. Some water stones need to be submerged in water for them to fill up while others are ‘splash & go’. This means that only the surface of the stone needs to be wet and should remain wet during the sharpening process. For practically all Japanese sharpening stones applies that either one of these two methods of using water is necessary or strongly recommended.


The exception being Japanese diamond sharpening stones, such as the [Naniwa Diamond Stones](kato://content/migrated_pageid_902) collection. After all diamonds don’t wear out, which means that no particles are released while sharpening. There is therefore also no such thing as slurry when you sharpen your knives on diamond sharpening stones. You could, however, add a little water to the stone to make sharpening a little easier and less noisier.


## Are water stones exclusively Japanese?


Although they are often used together, ‘Japan’ and ‘water stone’ don’t necessarily have to go together. Not every Japanese sharpening stone is a water stone and not every water stone comes from Japan. Does this mean that non-water stones should be used ‘dry’. No, this is also not the case. Instead of water you could also add a couple drops of oil to the surface of some whetstones. This mostly applies to very hard natural sharpening stones. In general, however, the following applies: most common (non-diamond-coated) whetstones could be typified as water stones. 


The advantage of the (rare) oil stone is that they don’t wear out as quickly as the softer water stones. Water stones, however, remove a lot more material and are therefore a lot faster to work with. The difference between the two is caused by the binding agent that is used. The sharpening particles of a water stone are bound by softer material, the particles of an oil stone by harder material. Magnesium, for instance, which responds strongly to water but is still very strong. For that reason you should never submerge magnesium-bound sharpening stones.


## So the conclusion is…?


To conclude: sharpening stones and whetstones are the same and water stones are a frequently occurring sub-category of these stones. So don’t be confused by the logical suggestion that a whetstones should always be used in combination with water. That is not the case. In addition, water stones don’t always come from Japan.


When choosing a sharpening stone (or stones) you should always keep your goal in mind. Do you want to polish your knives? If you do you shouldn’t choose the diamond sharpening stone or an oil stone. In that case we recommend you always use a water stone with a high grain size. However, if you are also satisfied with less sharpness and want fast results diamond stones are a great option. Finally, do you only want to purchase one sharpening stone but use multiple ‘grits’? Why not opt for the Ardennes Coticule sharpening stone where the amount of slurry you create determines how fine you can sharpen.

Sharpening stone, whetstone, water stone: the meaning behind

As soon as temperatures drop below zero people start to think about ice skating. Whether you go out for fun, enjoy figure or speed skating, it is an activity that can be enjoyed by everyone. Let’s say you own a pair of skates and can’t wait to go out to enjoy the first ice of the season. How do you make sure that when you do you will glide over the ice like the pro you are?  That is where Knivesandtools comes in handy. After all, we are experts when it comes to sharpening ice skates. Because yes, you can only impress others at the rink if you have sharp skates. Well, that and perhaps some skills..


## When do you need to sharpen ice skates?


You sharpen skates when they are blunt. It is, however, difficult to pinpoint exactly when that will be. This firstly depends – yes, obviously – on how often you use the skates. But which skates you use is also something that contributes to how often you need to sharpen them. Factors that determine how quickly skates need to be sharpened are the type of steel used, the hardness of the steel and the sharpening angle used (the thinner the grind, the faster steel wears out). More about that later.


## Sharpening skates with sharpening stones


Most skaters sharpen their skates with sharpening stones. Which stones are best depends on the material of your skates. There are, for instance, stainless steel skates with a hardness of 57 HRC, while there are also (professional) skates on the market made from powder metallurgic steel. This is extremely hard steel, with a hardness of approximately 66 HRC, but this type of steel is also very brittle. In between you also have carbon steel (non-stainless), with a hardness of 60 HRC and High Speed Steel (HSS, 62 HRC). If you own skates with irons made from very hard steel it is wise to use a diamond-coated sharpening stone. Professional skaters often use [DMT-sharpening stones](kato://content/migrated_pageid_400), for instance. [Ceramic sharpening](kato://content/migrated_pageid_354) stones are also great to sharpen hard types of steel (but are not as strong as diamond-coated stones). Do you own stainless steel skates made from steel that is not that hard? If so you could also use other [sharpening stones](kato://content/migrated_pageid_343) such as stone made with aluminium oxide and carbide.


## Use a sharpening table


We would love to say that it is easier (and cheaper) to secure your skates in a vice but we can’t avoid it: if you want to sharpen your skates properly you will need a sharpening table. In it you hang your skates upside down next to each other, to make sure the base of the irons is pointing up. A sharpening table is enhanced with plates you can place the iron of the skates against, to secure the skates afterwards. Because the plates have the same height on both sides the skates will hang at exactly the same height. As such you cannot only sharpen them at the same time you can also sharpen them evenly. That is why a double vice won’t work, also because a vice doesn’t have room for the shoe of the skates.

How do you sharpen ice skates?

## Why is M390 so wear and tear resistant?


To answer this question we need to look at the chemistry and the production process of this steel. First the way Böhler produces its M390. M390 is produced according to a powder metallurgical process. This requires some explanation.


Normally a manufacturer combines different elements in an alloy, pours out large blocks and flattens them to end up with sheets that can be used by knife manufacturers. Böhler, however, takes it up a notch. After putting these elements together they put them in a gas-atomizing machine which sprays the melted steel like a type of diffuser. The result is that the structure becomes much finer on a molecular level.


There are, of course, other manufacturers who have mastered this process. Take, for instance, Crucible with the CPM method or Carpenter which has called it the Micro Melt.


Afterwards you can check out the chemical composition of the steel. This is what M390 looks like:




| | |
| --- | --- |
| Carbon | 1.9 |
| Chrome | 20.0 |
| Molybdenum | 1.0 |
| Tungsten | 0.6 |
| Vanadium | 4.0 |
| Manganese | 0.3 |
| Silicon | 0.7 |


 


We can tell you a lot more about which element takes care of which qualities, and how a combination of specific elements ensure that you end up with the excellent qualities of M390, but we prefer to keep it simple and just mention the advantages!


## Advantages of Böhler M390


In addition to sharpness retention M390 has a few other fine qualities. It can be hardened to a relatively high hardness without it breaking quickly. This, however, doesn't mean that M390 is very tough. It does mean that M390, when compared to other types of steel, can be sharpened a little thinner.


M390 is also relatively stainless. Because of the large amount of chrome rust won't stand a chance. Especially when compared to other hard types of steel that are known for their sharpness retention but can still be affected by rust.


## Disadvantages of Böhler M390


Where there are advantages, there will also be disadvantages. M390, for instance, is relatively expensive. In terms of purchase price per kilo, but also in terms of modification. Wear and tear resistant namely also means hard to modify. As such you need more time to modify it, but your sanding belts will also wear out a lot faster. A knife made from M390 steel is therefore often more expensive than a knife made from a different type of steel.


M390 is also not that easy to sharpen. That is to say: you won't get very far by using a simple Arkansas stone. M390 prefers diamond-coated stones or ceramic options. Preferably under a very fixed angle. M390 is also not incredibly tough. It also isn't brittle, but you do need to take this into account.

Böhler M390 steel: what is it and why is it so popular?

## Sharpening stones and strops

Hapstone works with different types of [sharpening stones](kato://category/hapstonestones), so you always have the right grit and material at hand. In our range you will find Arkansas stones, the popular Shapton Pro stones, Ruby Ceramic, and leather Cordovan strops. All designed to sharpen your knives, scissors, or chisels to perfection.

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