Help needed on Gtaco Micro-X pocket sharpener

Bagheera

Bagheera

Joined
Oct 6, 1998
Messages
957
Hi everyone, I searched through the posts but haven't really found anything about Gatco Micro-X pocket sharpeners.

I found a nice deal on them on the Internet together with a tiny Timberlite Neely lock knife for only $9.99.

I would want to buy at least 5 of them for use by our individual scouting groups in our scoutinclub.

It looks like a simple 2"x2" ceramic sharpener with the advantage of having both medium and fine "crock sticks".
It looks like a foolproof system with minimal chances on cutting your fingers.
That together with the price and the fact that this way each "pack" can have it's own sharpener makes it very attractive for us.

Any info good or bad is greatly appreciated because I don't like spending money for a bad products.

Most knives to be sharpened are SAK's even the bigger "rucksack" models and some other less then 4" bladed knives (fixed/folders) and almost no serated ones.

Cheers, Bagheera

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Sorry for the typo in the subject I mean GATCO

[This message has been edited by Bagheera (edited 01-07-2000).]
 
I have one. It's a pretty decent product for the price (I paid $5 or $6 for mine).

The rods feel a bit delicate, but they're easy to change and have held up to my "don't know my own strength" handling.

As far as sharpening goes, you won't get hair-popping sharp, but your troop will get a decent edge on their knives. And it is safe to use. Overall, I think it's a good choice for your needs.

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Dave

Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of More Knives

[This message has been edited by dsvirsky (edited 01-07-2000).]
 
Bagheera,

I have one of the sharpeners and find it to be adequate for the job intended. I was a Scout Master and can understand your concerns. I would think this Gatco could safely sharpen the knives 6" or less. More than 6" could be trying for some ages. Otherwise a good choice
 
Hi guys, thanks for the info I relly appreciate it. In Holland we don't tend to carry knives with 6" blades as they are length wise (blade+grip) almost to a certain legal maximum length.
Also the kids (11-14 years age) I work with don't need those big knives. Although often these big ones are sold cheap in some Surplus shops etc. I try to educate them and have them save their money longer and get one decent knife that can handle all "scout" tasks. Mostly I like them to save up and buy a simple SAK preferably the Rucksack/Camping models, with a larger and locking blade.
But kids are just kids and I've handled quiet a fex 30+ tools China made Super Champs model SAK costing $8 and they are supprised that non of the so called tools/blades on them work.

Cheers, Bagheera

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Actually, I would say that the Gatco Micro-X is a very good ceramic stick sharpener. Esp when touching up I can get a very good edge on my Sebenza or Spec Plus Parachutist. It has the widest mouth of any similar style sharpener, and pretty much can accomodate any blade thickness.

The angle is pre-set, but it provides a consistent 20 deg. angle, probably fine for most. Biggest downside probably is that the small sticks pick up metal really quickly, so you’re rotating them frequently and need to clean them fairly routinely. But they certainly get the job done while backpacking and such.

Big plus is reliable convenience and safety. There is something to be said for idiot-proof devices. I’ve bought several for friends and family, because you really need to actively screw up to NOT get a decent edge, and you need to be really inattentive in order to injure yourself. I used to teach basic wilderness skills to college students, who are the clumsiest species on the planet. Even they did fine by the Micro-X.

No, it doesn’t give the best results, but it's hard to beat the Micro-X for a reliable quick-and-easy.

Glen
 
Thanks Storyville, now I just have to make my mind up getting those Gatco's without the Timberlite Neeley lock knives they throw in with the deal for $9.99 or just get them for 8.99 at Campmor without 3" Timberlite Neeley lock knife.
I read one bad post about Neeley locks used on the Timberlite knife where that person cut his finger and got some sutures put in.

On the other hand even the 3" handled and 2" bladed Timberlite Neeley knife for $1 is cheap and I think they make great letter openers.
Cheers, Bagheera
 
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