Shapton Glass #3000

A fine-grained sharpening stone with a #3000 mesh (4100 grit). This stone leaves a shiny finish that gives a very sharp result. However, an even shinier finish can be achieved with a finer stone, although #4100 is perfectly adequate for most kitchen knives. For dull knives, we recommend first forming an edge with a coarser stone.

Facts:

Grit (most common way to measure coarseness): approx. #4100.

Mesh: 3000.

Micron: 4.9.

Size: Dimensions: 210 x 70 x 11 mm. The stone comes mounted on a 5 mm thick glass plate. The stone itself is approx. 6 mm.

Shapton glass stones are, according to many, the absolute best stones on the market. They remove metal very efficiently and the stones are very hard. The hard ceramic wears down very slowly and therefore doesn't need to be particularly thick. The stone consumes minimal water and is of the 'splash & Go' type, meaning you don't soak the stone in water before use. Instead, you pour a palmful of water on it and start sharpening immediately.

We give Shapton Glass Stones our warmest recommendations. They are superbly good stones. We recommend using them together with this sharpening stone holder:
http://www.cleancut.se/butik/knivslipning/slipstenshallare/slipstenshallare-detail

Care instructions:

1. Rinse the stone in cold water after use. Never use dish soap or hot water.

2. Wipe the stone with a lint-free cloth and then let the stone air dry at room temperature (Do not dry in direct sunlight or with a hairdryer)

3. Let the surface of the stone dry with the ceramic side up, and never store it so that it rests against another stone.

4. Store the stone at room temperature.

5. If the glass breaks, do not use the stone anymore. However, the glass is very hard and only breaks under significant stress.

What is the difference between Shapton Glass and Shapton Pro?
The stones are relatively similar in performance and both are excellent choices, regardless of ambition level.
Both stones are of the 'Splash & Go' type and therefore do not require soaking in water. Just splash a little water on them and start sharpening.
Shapton Glass is slightly harder than Pro and therefore wears down a bit slower. A hard stone is practical as you don't need to flatten it as often. On the other hand, the Pro stone is thicker. We estimate that the Pro stone's lifespan is slightly longer, but Shapton Glass maintains its shape better.
An advantage of Shapton Pro is that it comes with a holder/case and the stone is reversible. This allows you to use both sides of the stone, which can be practical if you get a nick in the stone or if it loses its shape.
To summarize, both stones are of the highest possible quality and are fully comparable. Which one best suits your needs?