Norton IM2 benchstone
Norton IM2 Sharpening Stone
The Norton IM2 is a large, professional-grade India Combination Oil Stone designed for sharpening knives, woodworking tools, skate blades, chisels, plane irons, and other edge tools. It is one of Norton's most popular bench stones because it combines a fast-cutting coarse surface with a finer finishing surface in a single stone. (Norton Abrasives)
Specifications
Feature
Description
Model: Norton IM2
Stone Type: Combination India Oil Stone
Abrasive Material: Aluminum Oxide (India abrasive)
Dimensions11½" × 2½" × 1" (292 × 64 × 25 mm)
Configuration: Dual-sided (Coarse / Fine)
Lubricant: Honing oil or light mineral oil
Color:Orange-brown
Country of ManufactureUSA
Intended Use: Bench sharpening stone for edge tools, skates and knives
Abrasive Characteristics
The IM2 uses Norton's India aluminum oxide abrasive, which is harder and longer-lasting than many natural stones. It cuts more slowly than silicon carbide (Crystolon) stones but leaves a finer, more controlled finish. (Norton Abrasives)
Typical grit equivalents are:
Side Approximate Grit: Coarse India~150 grit Fine India~280–400 grit*
* Different retailers and grit charts report the fine side between approximately 280 and 400 grit equivalent.
How It Works
Coarse Side
- Repairs damaged edges.
- Removes nicks.
- Establishes primary bevels.
- Fast stock removal. (Sharpening Supplies)
Fine Side
- Refines the scratch pattern left by the coarse side.
- Produces a sharper, more durable working edge.
- Prepares the edge for final honing on an Arkansas stone, ceramic stone, strop, or steel if desired. (Heimerdinger Cutlery)
Advantages
- Large working surface accommodates long blades and tools.
- Durable aluminum oxide abrasive maintains shape well.
- Combination design eliminates the need for two separate stones.
- Produces keen, long-lasting edges.
- Excellent for carbon steel and tool steel sharpening.
- Requires little maintenance compared with waterstones. (Norton Abrasives)
Recommended Use
- Apply a light coating of honing oil.
- Start on the coarse side if major sharpening is needed.
- Progress to the fine side for edge refinement.
- Clean the stone periodically with mineral oil and a cloth to prevent loading.
- For a razor-quality edge, follow with a hard Arkansas stone or leather strap.
Typical Applications
- Kitchen knives
- Hunting knives
- Wood chisels
- Plane blades
- Shop tools
- Speed skating blades
- General workshop edge maintenance
Summary
The Norton IM2 is a large 11½-inch combination India oil stone made from aluminum oxide abrasive, featuring a coarse side for shaping (about 150 grit) and a fine side for finishing (approximately 280–400 grit equivalent). It is valued for its durability, consistent cutting action, long service life, and ability to produce strong, practical working edges on knives and tools.
MAP: $89.99