Shapton Glass #4000

A fine-grained sharpening stone with a #4000 mesh (equivalent to approx. 5500 grit). This stone leaves a polished finish, providing a very sharp result. For dull knives, we recommend first establishing an edge with a coarser stone.

Facts:

Grit (most common way to measure coarseness): approx. #5500.

Mesh: 4000.

Micron: 3.68

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

Shapton glass stones are considered by many to be 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 does not need to be particularly thick. The stone uses minimal water and is of the 'splash & Go' type, which means 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. It is an excellently good stone. Use it 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. Dry the stone with a lint-free cloth and then allow the stone to air dry at room temperature (Do not dry in direct sunlight or with a hairdryer).

3. Let the stone's surface lie with the ceramic facing upwards when drying, and never store it in contact with another stone.

4. Store the stone at room temperature.

5. If the glass breaks, stop using the stone. However, the glass is very hard and will only break 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 skill 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.
One advantage of Shapton Pro is that it comes with a holder/case and the stone is reversible. This means you can use both sides of the stone, which can be practical if you have a nick in the stone or if it has lost its shape.
In summary, both stones are of the highest possible quality and are fully comparable. Which one best suits your needs?