Suehiro "Rika" Finishing Whetstone #5000

The Suehiro Rika 5000 is one of those rare polishing stones that give the user great feedback, while retaining good sharpening speed.  It can be used by just applying water during sharpening, but a 5-10 minute pre-soak greatly improves polishing quality. The cut speed of this whetstone performs similar to what many 2000-3000 whetstones feel like.  Though not as slow wearing as other 5000-6000 whetstones are, due to its soaking nature, it is not considered fast wearing. Ryky has kept a broken Rika 5000 whetstone in his collection for 4 years, and refuses to replace it with a brand new one.

Made in Japan

Spec:

• Origin: Niigata, Japan
• Grit No.: #5000
• Type: Soaking
• Dimension: 206 x 73 x 23mm (8.11 x 2.87 x 0.91")
  
• Weight: 670g (23.6 oz)
• Material: Ceramic
• Grit Material: White Aluminum Oxide
• Base: Without Base (5000-DN)
• Includes a Nagura for adjusting
• Note: Suehiro no longer print the label directly on the surface of the stone. It now comes with a label made of cellophane film.
• Japanese Name: 末広「理華」

How to use:

Pre-soak for between 5-10 minutes before use, and apply water on surface during sharpening when needed.  Rinse and wipe dry with a hand towel when done, and allow air dry at room temp. Do not leave in water.

How to clean:

If the stone’s performance is slowing down, or seems to be diminishing, you can clean using a rust eraser, nagura stone (included), dressing stone, or a flattening plate. Be sure to clean the entire surface of the whetstone when using any of these methods to ensure even wear of the whetstone’s surface.