Help a rookie finally get a good sharpening set up and learn how to use it!

[worshipNtribute]

Hello all,

I just traded away my Lansky guided system. It was the deluxe version, and I used it a few times, but any slight recurve and my blades would be sharp in one area and not another. I also didn't really like that the angles were off if the blade was thicker / thinner. And I didn't even try to sharpen my zt0350.

What I'm looking for is a sharpening system or stone set up, thats moderately easy to use, under about 50-70 dollars. I'll eventually get a straight blade for shaving, so I'll get a strop with that. I only need this system for knives (with or without recurve, I don't want to limit my options, but I will not be sharpening serrated blades) anywhere from 2.5 inches to 4.5 inches in edge length.

I was looking at the spyderco sharpmaker, but with the diamond hone it'll run over 90 bucks, and I don't want to spend that much money right now. What would you guys recommend that will put a nice edge (shaving sharp) but also be cost friendly (best bang for your buck, I don't want to spend that much) And any tips on how to use it? Sharpmaker? Stones? I need it to be relatively rookie friendly, but I have a few knives I can practice on.

Thank you in advance!

 

[ScreaminSS01]

It really doesn't get any easier than a sharpmaker. Watch the video and you will be a sharpmaker pro in no time. It was my first sharpening system for what its worth and I dont have the diamond stones. I have the ultra fine stones and I am happy overall with my purchase.

 

[RevDevil]

Just a heads up for the OP:
Sharpening questions go in this forum: http://www.bladeforums.com/forums/forumdisplay.php/794-Maintenance-Tinkering-amp-Embellishment

 

[hank_rearden]

a racing driver and not a mechanic, eh? well the guys have given you what advice you needed. i'll just add that free-hand sharpening is a fun and very desirable aspect of knife ownership. regards.