So, in my search after that beautiful (but affordable) Ohira akarenge Suita I had contacted Shinichi to buy #10
http://watanabeblade.com/english/special/wetstone1.htm
I was positively surprised when he kind of refused to sell it to me, yet I did not fully understand his answer, appreciate some clarification:
See Shinichi's answer:
Aoto is several variety grits. But I think it is normaly impossible to use Akarenge after using Aoto.
After using Aoto, you need Kitayama #8000 before Akarenge.
You may choice softer Akarenge. It is easier to use
question #1 - I thought that the Akarenge was around #8000 grit (obviously its a Jnat, so there is a variety) but from the answer above it sounds to me as if its much finer (at least the harder ones), is it really, or did I miss something?
Question #2 - OK, so I know Soft = beginners, Hard = experienced and razors, but why? is it the ability to create mud? you can always use some Nagura, Is it due to pressure control? not to put too much pressure on the thin edge?
I have a few harder Nakayama Koppa's, and I rather like the feedback from hard stones, especially on my Kanna blade
Appreciate your insights
http://watanabeblade.com/english/special/wetstone1.htm
I was positively surprised when he kind of refused to sell it to me, yet I did not fully understand his answer, appreciate some clarification:
See Shinichi's answer:
Aoto is several variety grits. But I think it is normaly impossible to use Akarenge after using Aoto.
After using Aoto, you need Kitayama #8000 before Akarenge.
You may choice softer Akarenge. It is easier to use
question #1 - I thought that the Akarenge was around #8000 grit (obviously its a Jnat, so there is a variety) but from the answer above it sounds to me as if its much finer (at least the harder ones), is it really, or did I miss something?
Question #2 - OK, so I know Soft = beginners, Hard = experienced and razors, but why? is it the ability to create mud? you can always use some Nagura, Is it due to pressure control? not to put too much pressure on the thin edge?
I have a few harder Nakayama Koppa's, and I rather like the feedback from hard stones, especially on my Kanna blade
Appreciate your insights