Quick answer

If you need a dedicated marking and etching tool with an ergonomic grip, the Excel Blades Cushion Grip Awl/Scribe is the right choice. If you already own craft blades and just need to keep them sharp, the 3 1/2" Sharpening Stone is a simpler, cheaper option.

What each tool does best

The Excel Blades Cushion Grip Awl/Scribe (30614) is a multi-purpose precision tool for marking, weeding, etching, and crafting. Its 0.050" replaceable steel tip delivers consistent accuracy, and the soft ergonomic cushion grip reduces hand fatigue during prolonged use. This makes it ideal for tasks like transferring patterns onto wood, scoring lines on plastic, or weeding vinyl decals.

The 3 1/2" Sharpening Stone (70034) is a ceramic stone that can be used dry or with light oil to hone chisels, gouges, routers, or any metal object. It does not mark or scribe on its own, but it keeps your existing blades and tools sharp, extending their life and improving cut quality.

Trade-offs to consider

  • Versatility vs. specialization: The awl/scribe is a dedicated marking and etching tool. The sharpening stone only sharpens other tools, so you need a separate marking tool anyway. If you lack a marking tool, buy the awl/scribe first.
  • Ergonomics vs. simplicity: The cushion grip on the awl/scribe reduces fatigue during long sessions. The sharpening stone has no handle and requires manual technique. Choose the awl/scribe for comfort; choose the stone if you already have a marking tool and need to maintain it.
  • Cost vs. ongoing value: At USD 6.99 (catalog comparison price USD 10.92), the awl/scribe is an affordable precision tool. The sharpening stone costs USD 2.99 (catalog comparison price USD 4.82) but only adds value if you have tools to sharpen. The awl/scribe gives you a new capability; the stone is a low-cost maintenance add-on.

Product facts at a glance

  • Excel Blades Cushion Grip Awl/Scribe: Excel Blades Cushion Grip Awl/Scribe – Precision Tool for Marking, Weeding, Etching & Crafting. Features a soft ergonomic cushion grip and a 0.050" replaceable steel tip. The cushion grip reduces hand strain during repetitive marking or etching, and the replaceable tip means you don't have to buy a whole new tool when the point dulls.
  • 3 1/2" Sharpening Stone: Excel Blades Sharpening Stone – 3.5-inch ceramic stone, may be used dry or with light oil for honing chisels, gouges, routers or any other metal objects. A sharpening stone is a maintenance tool, not a marking tool. It helps you keep your existing craft knives and chisels sharp, but it won't replace the marking function of an awl or scribe.

Which one fits your workflow?

Best for

  • Crafters who need a dedicated marking, weeding, or etching tool with an ergonomic grip
  • Woodworkers who want to transfer patterns or score lines without damaging the workpiece

Not for

  • Users who already own a marking tool and only need to keep their blades sharp (choose the sharpening stone instead)
  • Projects that require a heavy-duty scribe for metal engraving (the 0.050" tip is precise but not designed for hard metals)