comments:
Hey, op, if you're looking for a stone with good tactile feedback that cuts efficiently, is durable, and will cut most steels, while being cost effective, this is a great choice. I think it's important to learn to feel what's happening on the edge and I think that's more difficult on diamond, but that's just my opinion.
I prefer this one. It'll do the same thing, it's just that it feels a little different. I personally had trouble getting used to the feedback of diamond stones.
I'm going off memory so correct me if I'm wrong. Those are all soaking stones, right? Are you absolutely set on soaking stones? I know you said you can only get one of those 4, but the Norton silicone carbide stone is inexpensive, pretty widely available, and holds up pretty well. If you're really set on that specific style of water stone, then nevermind.