Let’s Talk About RH Preyda Arkansas Waterstone 400grit
As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist with over a decade of experience, I’ve seen countless sharpening stones come and go. Few, however, have piqued my interest quite like the RH Preyda Arkansas Waterstone 400grit. This isn’t just another sharpening stone; it’s a return to tradition, a nod to the simplicity and effectiveness of natural abrasives.
I was seeking a reliable, relatively coarse stone for quickly restoring edges on heavily used field knives and axes. I needed something that could remove material efficiently without being overly aggressive. The RH Preyda Arkansas Waterstone 400grit seemed to fit the bill perfectly, promising a blend of speed and control.
Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the stone’s substantial size. The 8″ x 3″ x 1″ dimensions feel significant in hand, providing ample surface area for sharpening larger blades. The inclusion of a non-slip base is a welcome addition, adding stability and preventing unwanted movement during use. Compared to diamond sharpening plates, which can feel harsh, this waterstone immediately felt more natural and forgiving. Others I considered were a Norton India stone and a cheaper combination waterstone, but I was attracted to the RH Preyda’s reputation and the convenience of the included base.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The stone felt solid and well-made, and the 400grit seemed appropriate for my intended purpose. I was excited to see how it would perform in the field, but also aware that natural stones can sometimes be inconsistent in their cutting speed and overall effectiveness.
Real-World Testing: Putting RH Preyda Arkansas Waterstone 400grit to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place in my workshop, but I quickly moved it outdoors to replicate real-world scenarios. I primarily used the RH Preyda Arkansas Waterstone 400grit to sharpen several heavily used hunting knives and a small camp axe. I utilized water as a lubricant, as recommended for Arkansas stones.
The stone performed admirably in various conditions, from a humid summer evening to a cool, dry autumn afternoon. It maintained its cutting ability without clogging, even when sharpening blades with a significant amount of accumulated grime. Getting used to the feel of a waterstone after years of using diamond plates took a little adjustment, but the smooth, consistent feedback was immediately apparent. One initial issue I noticed was how quickly the water seemed to dissipate, requiring frequent reapplication.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the RH Preyda Arkansas Waterstone 400grit has proven to be a reliable and durable tool. There are no visible signs of excessive wear or chipping. The stone still cuts efficiently, maintaining its original shape and flatness.
Cleaning is simple; a quick scrub with a brush and some dish soap removes any accumulated metal filings and debris. Compared to some of the cheaper sharpening solutions I’ve used in the past, this stone has far surpassed my expectations in terms of longevity and consistent performance. This stone outperforms cheaper artificial stones in the same grit range, maintaining its shape and cutting ability much longer.
Breaking Down the Features of RH Preyda Arkansas Waterstone 400grit
Specifications
- Dimensions: 8″ x 3″ x 1″. This provides a large, stable surface for sharpening various sizes of blades, from small pocket knives to larger axes.
- Grit: 400 Grit. This is ideal for removing material quickly and efficiently, making it suitable for repairing damaged edges and establishing a good starting point for finer sharpening.
- Material: Arkansas Stone. This natural stone is known for its fine, consistent abrasive properties, offering a balance of cutting speed and control.
- Base: Non-slip base. This adds stability and prevents the stone from sliding around during use, enhancing safety and control.
- Packaging: Boxed with hanging tab. The stone comes well-protected in a box for storage with the option to hang.
These specifications translate to a stone that is both versatile and user-friendly. The large size and non-slip base make it easy to work with, while the 400grit abrasive ensures efficient material removal.
Performance & Functionality
The RH Preyda Arkansas Waterstone 400grit performs its job exceptionally well. It effectively removes material, re-establishes bevels, and prepares blades for finer sharpening stages. The stone cuts smoothly and consistently, providing excellent feedback and control.
While not as aggressive as a very coarse diamond plate, the RH Preyda strikes a perfect balance between speed and precision. One slight weakness is the tendency for the stone to dry out quickly, requiring frequent water application, especially in warmer environments. It definitely meets my expectations and is far superior to some of the synthetic stones I’ve used in the past.
Design & Ergonomics
The RH Preyda Arkansas Waterstone 400grit boasts a simple, functional design. The natural stone feels good in the hand, and the non-slip base provides a stable platform for sharpening.
There is virtually no learning curve; anyone familiar with sharpening techniques can immediately use this stone. The natural variation in the stone’s color adds a touch of character, reminding you that you’re working with a product of nature.
Durability & Maintenance
Arkansas stones are known for their durability, and the RH Preyda appears to be no exception. With proper care, this stone should last for years, if not decades.
Maintenance is straightforward; regular cleaning with water and a mild detergent is all that’s required. The stone does not require flattening, a significant advantage over some softer waterstones.
Accessories and Customization Options
The RH Preyda Arkansas Waterstone 400grit comes with a non-slip base, which is a valuable addition. There are no other included accessories or specific customization options.
However, the stone is compatible with a variety of sharpening lubricants, including water, honing oil, and even soapy water. You can also use a lapping plate to flatten the stone if necessary, although this is rarely required.
Pros and Cons of RH Preyda Arkansas Waterstone 400grit
Pros
- Large size provides ample sharpening surface.
- Effective 400grit abrasive quickly removes material.
- Natural Arkansas stone offers a smooth, consistent cutting action.
- Non-slip base provides stability and control.
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting performance.
Cons
- Requires frequent water application during use.
- May be too coarse for very fine edge refinement (requires follow-up with finer grit stones).
Who Should Buy RH Preyda Arkansas Waterstone 400grit?
The RH Preyda Arkansas Waterstone 400grit is perfect for hunters, outdoorsmen, and anyone who needs to quickly restore edges on their knives and tools. It’s also an excellent choice for those who prefer the feel and performance of natural sharpening stones.
Those seeking a very fine, polished edge may want to skip this product, as it is primarily intended for coarse sharpening. Must-have accessories include a honing oil or water, a cleaning brush, and finer grit sharpening stones for edge refinement.
Conclusion on RH Preyda Arkansas Waterstone 400grit
The RH Preyda Arkansas Waterstone 400grit is a well-made, durable, and effective sharpening stone that offers excellent value for its price of $69.99. Its large size, non-slip base, and consistent abrasive action make it a joy to use, and its natural Arkansas stone construction ensures long-lasting performance.
The price is justified by the quality and longevity of the product. I would definitely recommend the RH Preyda Arkansas Waterstone 400grit to anyone looking for a reliable and efficient coarse sharpening stone. Invest in your edges and experience the difference!