A good Arkansas stone can be purchased from almost any scope, but this scope is good for its size. I have a few 6" x 2" rocks to work with, but the extra 2" is fine, especially with a large knife. Also, the rock actually arrived in a green plastic holder, not the one on wood holder shown in the picture. the picture which is a bonus in my version. It is more durable, has non-slip pads on the bottom and can handle the 'elements' better than a wooden base. sharp edges on their blades.