Edge Pro: upgraded Apex vs. Pro

Crayola

Crayola

Joined
Sep 23, 1999
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Aha, another Edge Pro thread!

Well, after searching a lot, I am still not sure about a Maxed otu Apex vs. the Pro model. With the stone upgrade kit and video, the Apex is still soemthing like $100 cheaper than the pro. The pro can do wider blades, ok. I e-mailed Ben and he said that the Pro is a lot more comfortable, since you can change the height. So, is that what one gets for $100 more? Is there any other benefits I am not seeing? Is the Apex not comfortable to use? I just don't see what the pro really offers for $100 more. I mean, I could get a maxed out Apex AND a new knife for the cost of the pro! What say you, Edge Pro Peoples?
 
As sturdy as the Apex is, I believe that the Pro model is sturdier (metal versus plastic) and has an attachment for scissors. I believe that the Pro model is more for professional sharpeners and sharpening geeks who like going down to a barely acceptable 6 degrees per side instead of a chunky-thick 10.
 
Almost. The lowest setting on the Apex is 10, but you do stuff with the shelf to make the angle lower such as place on the edge guide and put material under the blade.

I have the Apex with upgrade and video and it took about $175 to get Mr. Dale to send all of that stuff to me. The Pro model, I believe, is worth the extra money in terms of ruggedness of construction and other features, but I'm more than happy with my Apex model. I'd be happier if I remembered to straighten my hones on a more regular basis, but that can happen with the Pro model, too.
 
I went with the Pro model myself, and I bought it the first time. There is no doubt that the Apex version is a better idea than most sharpeners, but I knew that I was in this hobby for the long haul, and my friends would want sharp knives, as well.

That in itself sold Edge-Pros. All of the original group that had their knives sharpened by my EP, all bought EPs for themselves. Mostly they remarked that "why should Ichabod have all the sharp knives, and how come I always have to ask him to do mine?"

I looked at it this way. Many knuts buy knives that cost more than 300 bucks. It seems odd that they would want to sharpen such a good knife on a 10 dollar sharpener.
 
Don't you also get a pile of stones with the Pro model that are optional on the Apex model, but that some folks spring for anyway when getting Apex?
 
With my Pro model I received a five stones; a 100, a 180, a 220, a 320 and a 660.

I believe that as info comes in, Ben might try other grits within that spectrum, for example, he might send a 300 instead of a 320. This is what I have HEARD, not a confirmation.

I just HEARD that he had durability problem with the 100, and now sends a 120. Unless you sharpen a lot of lawn-mower blades or tomahawks, it doesn't make much difference.

I have patience, and even when I 'remove metal,' I still use the 180, and I use it lightly.

If you are a fan of the 'toothy' style edge (and you have made your bevel uniform and are just interested in a light sharpening) Ben sent me a 440. He sent me a 'half-size,' but it's just about perfect for a knife where a mirror finish is unwanted.
 
I have both models.

Apex -

Pros: I really like the ease of set up with the Apex. It's light and I like the armature capture mechanism for the water stones a little better. It's a simpler design. It's also very portable. You can throw it in a bag and take it with you without breaking it down.

Cons: You really do need all the upgrade stuff IMO and the video helps, too. So, as has been said, to do it right, you're looking at about $175. Also flexes a little more because it's plastic (the fold out legs). But hasn't made a difference in sharpening ability that I've noticed - except maybe when you're trying to get down to under 5 degrees included :D

Pro Model -

Pros: All metal so, in theory, it's more durable. You can set it up to be very rigid - good if you're sawing away trying to reprofile S90V or something. It's adjustable for height, which really hasn't been an issue for me but probably would be more comfortable during a long sharpening session. It comes with the video and the upgraded stones. The blade table is slightly wider and deeper so you can supposedly sharpen that spare guillotine blade you picked up at the flea market. Can accept a scissors sharpener.

Cons: Bulky base. (Some would consider this a pro.) Not as portable, but comes with a great case (I think it's extra). Over $100 more. Scissors sharpening attachment is another $95, I think.

I bought the Apex model first and am completely satisfied with it. Then my best friend went out and bought the Pro model . . . I don't think I have to explain to anyone here why I was then obligated to get one as well. :mad:

I use the Apex most often because it's quick and convenient for touch-ups. It's also a tough little rig. If I was working with or planning to work with a lot of larger blades, I'd go with the Pro.
 
My Apex will be delivered tomorrow. I did not feel the Pro had enough benefits to get me to spring the extra $100 and I hated the idea of a vacuum base, I have never had luck with them on anything but clean laminate counters which is rare in my shop:)
 
Bought an Apex because I didn't want to spend the extra $100, I love my EdgePro, but I think I'm going to sell it and buy a Pro model.

I look at it this way, the Apex is paid for, I got alot of use out of it, if I want a Pro I'll only have to put another $100+ into it.

Start with an Apex, you might be happier than you think. Either way you can't lose.
 
I have the Apex. I bought it from Ben at the Eugene show last April. I asked him if he recommended the Apex or Pro for me. I sharpen knives about as often as most of you do. He said the Pro is more for someone who has a shop and does alot of sharpening every day. For the run of the mill knife nut, he recommended the Apex. That is what I got, with the show special, extra stone and polishing tapes out the door $125.
 
Forgive me if this has been beat to death... I found this forum when looking for some sharpening info on GlockTalk (where I spend most of my time).

It seems that the Edgepro Apex is probably the best all around sharpener for the average guy.

Where is the best place (cheapest) to pick one up.

thanks,

MStarmer
 
Welcome to Bladeforums MStarmer.

The Edge Pro has just recently become available from dealers. There is one guy selling them on eBay at a discount of about $20, but he does not ship very quick - when I e-mailed him it would be a week before it would ship and he was only willing to go standard delivery.

I think I saw one other online dealer who had them and the price was a few bucks less than buying direct.

I just bought one Monday direct from Ben (Edge Pro) and it was delivered yesterday. Great service, great product!
 
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