Another sharpening post? Suggestions

954Ink

954Ink

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Feb 22, 2020
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Ahoy BF family. I'm getting close to spending that big boy money on a sharpening equipment. I'm torn between getting quality stones - Japanese and Diamond plates or a Wicked Edge system. This question is more geared towards people who have experience with the Wicked Edges systems. What model does everyone like? What accessories do you reccomend? I was reading that the 100 & 120 models go up to 3/8 while the 130 only goes to 3/16, which as a Busse hog that wont work. Then I noticed pro models. Could you guys please drop some first hand reccomendations on me as I'll be having to both spend a lot of money and lie to my lady.
 
Eli Chaps said:
Then don't spend a lot of money or lie to your lady.

Get a couple decent bench stones and have at it.
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I'm not really gonna lie to my lady. That was a joke. We live comfortable and she doesnt question my spending. I'm just frugal with a dry sense of humor.
Really hoping to hear the suggestions/opinions from wicked edge owners.
 
There are loads of people who love the WE, but personally I just don’t get it. It’s really expensive, has its limitations and there are pretty much no 3rd party options when it comes to stones. Something that takes edge pro format stones is infinitely more flexible and you don’t need two of every stone. That’s just my 2cents and to be clear I have never owned one.

I sharpen on bench stones but that’s not everyone’s cup of tea either.

There are plenty of posts on here weighing up the benefits of the various available systems vs bench stones to digest
 
I've had a Wicked Edge for over 6 years, and currently own a Gen 3 pro with the upgraded clamp. While it is a nice system, like anything it has good points and bad. And contrary to popular belief, there is a learning curve with each guided sharpening setup as well.

For the good, it's very quick, and will hog off steel and re-profile a blade in no time. You can get some great edges with it, taking it all the way to the finest mirror polished edge just by adding some lapping films and sub micron strops.

A few of the bad points is that it's expensive, and you are limited to using only Wicked Edge diamonds/stones.

Here's the thing: If you are *just* looking to get a good edge on a knife, then get a 300/1200 combination diamond plate (probably 8 x 3), a stone holder, and a strop with some 1 micron diamond spray. This setup will set you back about $100-$150. Armed with those items, you will be able to sharpen ANY steel out there, and you will learn a ton about the actual sharpening process (make burr, remove burr, refine edge, etc.)

It takes time to learn how to freehand sharpen, however building your freehand skills will serve you for a long time AND actually make you a better sharpener if you decide to pick up one of the guided sharpeners later on.

Plus it's a lot more convenient to pack up a combination plate and a strop, and that will allow you to sharpen your edges regardless of where you are.
 
I learned how to sharpen my knives on stones when I was about 12. I think I'm decent at it, I don't have a problem getting them shaving sharp. I bought a WE 130 about a month ago. I wanted the new clamp. You can purchase a adapter for it that allows you to sharpen thicker blades. When I bought it I also ordered 800/1000 stones. There is a learning curve to it, but I think it helped that I already had the basics of how to sharpen. I was really impressed with the results I was getting even before the stones were broken in. Then I wanted to get mirrored edges, so I ordered the 1500/2200 and 3000 stones with some 6 micron lapping film and strops with 4/2 and 1/.5 diamond emulsion. I love this set up.
 
I’ve been using a Sharpmaker for a few years and get good results with it. But I’ve been jonesing for a Wicked Edge setup for awhile now.

I just ordered a Pro-Pack 3. Labor Day sale. Stayed with the aluminum base.
 
tew3006 said:
I learned how to sharpen my knives on stones when I was about 12. I think I'm decent at it, I don't have a problem getting them shaving sharp. I bought a WE 130 about a month ago. I wanted the new clamp. You can purchase a adapter for it that allows you to sharpen thicker blades. When I bought it I also ordered 800/1000 stones. There is a learning curve to it, but I think it helped that I already had the basics of how to sharpen. I was really impressed with the results I was getting even before the stones were broken in. Then I wanted to get mirrored edges, so I ordered the 1500/2200 and 3000 stones with some 6 micron lapping film and strops with 4/2 and 1/.5 diamond emulsion. I love this set up.
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This works great and was only $8
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You can save a little by getting the Pro Pack III, and add a set of 12" guide rods for more acute angles and longer knives. Add more polishing strops if you want highly polished edges. Personally, a nice sharp toothy 800 - 1000 grit edge is fine for me most of the time. But it's nice to know that I can polish up an edge if I want to.

It has the WE130 and accessories, including the 1/4" adapter. With the WE130 you will also be able to employ asymmetrical grinds if you so desire.
There is someone that makes aftermarket stones for the WE but I have not used them and don't know anything about them.
 
000Robert said:
Wow! You mean I can ruin my edges for only $8?
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I just want my knife to be able to cut when I need it to. Works great on the knives I actually use and don't care if they break and fall apart in my hands. Rough Riders, Buck, Gerber, Case..etc.
 
Carborundum sharpeners remove metal fast. Few of them have multiple angles to choose from. So, without knowing what bevel was put on at the factory using one will reprofile your edge for you. But with cutting a micro bevel first.
 
There is a zen to sharpening with bench stones. You learn to go slow. Use light pressure. Hold a consistent angle. So it all depends on what you want. if you want it fast and easy, or slow and satisfying. Sharpening systems trade the zen for ease. I have a lot of knives, am always touching all of them up, and I get up early in the morning to sharpen in the quiet with a cup of coffee. That's just me. My recommendation? Spend $22 and buy a Dan's Whetstone "Hard Arkansas" 4x2x1/2, use a light oil and see if you don't find the experience pleasurable. You can get your full money back on eBay if not.
 
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