Easiest formula I've found for sharpening

[CanadaKnifeGuy]

For everything other than Scandi grinds (although I know some ppl strop a convex microedge onto them), my baseline method is simply to put a WorkSharp convex bevel on the edge, leave the rest of the edge / profile as designed and then just strop it to desired sharpness .

Works really well on full flat grinds like on the BK knives that also happen to have fairly thick bladestocks .

I'll often also strop a bit shallower as well on thicker blades, for a little more "sliciness".

On thinner, and softer blades like a Victorinox or Opinels, the WorkSharp isn't needed and stropping is all that's required.

I still have other touch up methods (a DMT credit card diamond sharpener) for triage situations or when encountering someone else's blade that's just too dull....

But putting a decent convex on it initally with a belt and then just stropping for maintenance is too damn easy.

It's not as romantic as a series of 5-6 Japanese waterstones....

But it works really well for me.

Anyone else have any other easy or perhaps more complex but preferred methods?

 

[JoshSkaarup]

I often use a Work Sharp field sharpener. Has two diamond plates, ceramic rod, and stroping strip all in a pocket sized package. Broadhead wrenches as well! Usually just takes a couple licks to get anything shaving sharp. While it does have pre-set angle guides, you can use it as a plain whetstone as well.

 

[CanadaKnifeGuy]

I've seen that. It looks like a really good, self-contained, portable system that will work on basically anything.

If I was heading on a long term deployment / trip, I think I'd have to pack one of those!

 

[JoshSkaarup]

It is and does! The ceramic rod can be rotated as well, with a fine side, a grooved coarse side for a slightly "toothed" edge, and another side with a deep groove for fish hooks. Also a small ceramic for scissors or serrations.

For my convexed edge pieces, I usually give it a touch on a DC4. And for pocket knives and the like, I have a Smith's little pocket sharpener. Works great on SAKs. Has a carbide and ceramic pull through, and a tapered diamond rod for serrations. As well as a built in fero rod.