The finishing grits (16000 and 30000) of the Shapton stone system leave a polished surface free of the scratches creating a mirror finished, razor sharp edge. We recommend purchasing, and using, the Shapton … Shapton … I have been going straight from the 8000 Norton to the 16000 Shapton … And like has been mentioned, The Shapton glass … Ideal stones to purchase from the Shapton Glass line. 500 extra thick 2000 16,000 FYI, I have all but the 10k and 30k and still only use the 500, 2000 and 16,000. The result is very similar, so that will hardly be an argument. I just started using my 16000 Shapton GlasStone, and am in total agreement with the fact that if you don't have a shaving sharp edge already these are not going to produce one. Shapton Glass Stones are known for their exceptional quality, durability and ease of use. They just work. A solution would be to sharpen on the Naniwa 10,000 and finish on the Shapton 16,000 … My choices are down to Shapton Glass (been very happy with the Shapton Glass 16,000 stone I have) or the Shapton Pro. The Shapton Glass Stones go up to grit 16,000 where the Naniwa Professional series has a 10,000 stone as their highest grit. Unlike other waterstones, Shapton Glass Stones do not need to be soaked in water before use - simply wet the surface and begin honing your blade. Each stone is comprised of a 5mm thick glass backing plate fused to a 5mm thick stone and measures 2-3/4 W x 8-1/4L. I have not used the Pro stones – so would be VERY interested in any …