Knife sharpening

[Paul]

When it comes to sharpening knives, is it more about having the skill or the right tools? Some people say it's all in how you do it but others think the tool does all the work, what's your take?

 

[rfd]

It's about both skill and tool(s).

Carbon blades only, NO "stainless steel" crap.

If a blade is really dull and beat up, I'll start with a file to set the angle (by eye, no tools needed) then work with a COURSE stone to quickly set the edge, Finish up with a bit finer stone and strop.

For a quick touch up, I use an 80/120 grit emery board ... don't laugh, it works quite well and makes Xacto blades razor sharp for cutting a stack of BP PPB paper patches.

 

[Coopy]

Skill is important but a decent sharpener makes a noticeable difference for keeping things consistent