Smith Abrasives 4 Stone Knife Sharpening Kit

I've been a freehand sharpener for years, since my Boy Scout days. I can get a pocket knife sharp, and did fairly well on kitchen knives if I took my time. Since getting a few nicer pocket knives, though, and wanting to keep serrated blades sharp too, I thought it was time for some assistance. This set is very easy to use, and with the 2 diamond stones, can take a chipped, dull edge to sharp in a few minutes work. My only cons are: the plastic stone holders can crack if the guide rods are screwed in too tightly. They just need to be snug, not torqued down. And, I wish there was a shallower angle for the guide rods. I'd love to try a 15 degree edge on an S30V blade I have, but can't with this set. I'm sure it's not a big difference, and 20 degrees should give a stronger edge.

Had to replace my equipment that come up missing. This is a complete system that anyone could use and get a knife sharpe. I think my ex could even sharpen a knife with this set.

This sharpening system makes putting the precise angle on the blade pretty much fool proof. Doesn't come with good directions so you need to take a look at all of the parts and play around with it. It's not hard to figure out. Sharpened one very dull knife last night in a matter of minutes. It did a fine job. I have several other knives that need sharpening, too, so we will see how it holds up. The system also comes with a bench mount (a great idea, I think), but I have not attached it to a bench yet. It is possible to prop the base mount up on a solid surface and grip the system at the vice mechanism and still do a good job. Money well spent, I think. Thanks again for another great product STP!

I find it simple to set up and use. I've never been able to hold the proper angle before but this system makes it automatic.

Plastic that holds the stones and guide nuts is cheap and brittle. Guide rods went in two turns before the threaded nut portion sheared away. There are much better kits with more angles available. I would recommend lansky or gatco. The spyderco is nice but is limited to the angles at which you can use.