Until the development of modern Alumina, the Arkansas stones were the undisputed leader in knife sharpening. The black hard will still put on a polished edge that can be obtained no other way by hand. The Washita and Soft Arkansas have largely been replaced by ceramic.

Discovered by Europeans about 1816, until the developement of modern Alumina, the Arkansas stones were the undisputed leader in knife sharpening. The black hard stone will put on a polished edge that can be obtained no other way by hand.

Generally a smoother, softer and more porous grit stone commonly used for Vitry brand and soft metal knives. Comes in soft, medium and hard varieties.