The NSK KOGYO Diamond Nagura #3000 is a diamond nagura designed to produce an abrasive slurry, called todoro, on the surface of NSK KOGYO sharpening stones. During sharpening, steel particles can gradually build up on the stone and reduce its effectiveness. By rubbing the nagura with a little water, a slurry forms and helps keep the stone’s surface active during use.
This #3000 version is intended for the finer stages of sharpening and finishing. NSK KOGYO recommends using it with the Hakuto #1500 and #3000 stones. Its compact size of approximately 41 × 18 × 15 mm makes it easy to handle and allows for precise, localized work on the stone’s surface.
When sharpening a Japanese knife, the Nagura #3000 allows you to quickly create a fine slurry without waiting for it to develop solely through contact between the blade and the stone. It is particularly useful during stages where you are seeking to further refine the cutting edge and maintain a consistent feel on the stone. As with any nagura, the pressure and amount of slurry can be adjusted depending on the desired result.
This Diamond Nagura is different from the small diamond plate sometimes included with NSK KOGYO whetstones. The latter is primarily intended to refresh the surface of the whetstone, and the slurry it produces must be rinsed off. The #3000 Nagura, on the other hand, is used to create a slurry that remains on the stone during sharpening. After use, rinse the nagura with water and let it dry completely before storing it.
