The Shapton Kuromaku Maintenance Bundle combines two essential sharpening grits for maintaining a precise, polished edge on your kitchen knives. Featuring the Shapton Kuromaku #1000 and #5000, this two-stone setup covers the majority of sharpening needs for Japanese kitchen knives. The #1000 is used to restore and establish a sharp working edge, while the #5000 refines the edge and produces a smoother, more polished finish. Both stones offer the renowned Kuromaku combination of a hard, controlled feel, fast cutting performance, and excellent durability. They are also true splash-and-go stones, requiring no soaking before use. Whether you're maintaining your own knives at home or looking for a reliable professional-level setup, this bundle provides an excellent foundation without unnecessary additional grits. Why we recommend it • Complete #1000 + #5000 sharpening setup • #1000 for restoring and establishing the edge • #5000 for refining and polishing the edge • Hard, precise feel with excellent feedback • True splash-and-go convenience • Slow wearing and long lasting • Ideal for Japanese kitchen knives • Excellent setup for both home cooks and professionals • Includes storage cases that double as sharpening bases What's Included 1 × Shapton Kuromaku #1000 The essential medium grit stone for restoring dull edges and establishing a sharp working edge. 1 × Shapton Kuromaku #5000 A fine grit finishing stone for refining the scratch pattern and producing a smoother, more polished edge. Specifications Brand: Shapton (シャプトン) Series: Kuromaku Grits: #1000 + #5000 Type: Splash and go whetstones Soaking required: No Dimensions: 210 x 70 x 15mm per stone Origin: Tochigi, Japan Includes: Plastic storage cases for both stones, which double as sharpening bases Use Case For routine knife maintenance, start with the #1000 when the knife has become noticeably dull and needs its edge restored. Once a consistent edge has been established, move to the #5000 to refine and polish the edge. For regular maintenance, the #5000 can often be used on its own when the knife only needs light refinement rather than significant edge restoration. For best long-term performance, pair the stones with a suitable flattening plate and keep both sharpening surfaces flat.