SHARPAL 162N: problems, parts and running costs

Checked: 2026-10-19

Summary

The SHARPAL 162N is a dual-grit (325/1200) electroplated diamond stone that owners recommend as a first no-soak stone because it cuts fast and never dishes. The main thing that goes wrong is coating wear under heavy pressure, which one owner saw after about 20 knives; light pressure and lubrication prevent it. There are no replaceable parts and no consumables, so the yearly running cost is essentially zero beyond the stone itself, and at about $70 it is a strong buy for beginners.

Common problems and fixes

Coating wear under heavy pressure — the most reported failure: a BladeForums owner wore the coarse 325 side completely dull after about 20 knives and the fine side was almost gone; SHARPAL support sent a replacement free of charge. Use light pressure and lubrication, even soapy water, to prolong the plating; the 3-year warranty covers it. [1]
Large 325-to-1200 grit jump — refining an edge from 325 to 1200 takes time, so expect more passes to reach a finished edge. [3]
Too aggressive on very hard, brittle steels — the diamond can cut too fast on hard, brittle Japanese steels below 60 HRC if used carelessly. [4]
Finish is less refined than ceramic — the 1200 side leaves a less refined finish than a dedicated ceramic finishing stone. [4]
Rust or yellow discoloration on the base — leftover metal filings can oxidize on the stainless-steel base; wipe the stone clean after use and store it dry. [2]
Difficulty reaching a clean edge — one Reddit owner struggled to get a clean paper-cutting edge, but responders put it down to technique rather than a stone defect. [5]

Parts and consumables

No replaceable parts or consumables reported. The stone is an electroplated abrasive plate with no user-serviceable parts; wear is handled through the 3-year warranty rather than repair. A strop and compound are the common edge-finishing add-on. [2]

Yearly running cost

Running cost is essentially zero beyond the stone itself. The 162N consumes no electricity and needs no lubricant when sharpened dry; the manufacturer’s only recurring care is a wipe-down and dry storage. No consumable replacement interval or yearly figure is reported, and there is no subscription. [2]

When it is a good buy

The 162N is widely considered a strong value for a first diamond stone at its typical US price of about $70. SHARPAL’s own store lists it at $69.99, Chef Knives To Go at $70.00 and Woodcraft at $69.99 (all observed 2026-10-18), and Reddit references put it around $60-70. Below $55 it is compelling on sale; $55-75 is the normal fair-value band; above $85 it is weak unless the 8 x 3 in size, included base or 325/1200 grit pairing is specifically needed. [6][7][8][9]

A dedicated ceramic finishing stone is the better choice if you want a finer finish than the 1200 side provides. [3][4] Against the Work Sharp benchstone, a Reddit owner called the 162N “the better stone, no contest” because the 325/1200 spread is more useful than 300/600. [10]