Lanksy turn box, two models. Opinions?

T

Tom1983

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Jul 1, 2016
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Looking at the links, it seems the only difference is how the "deluxe" version (that's what it's being sold as at my local store) has two diamond and two ceramic rods, while the regular one has four ceramic rods. They both have two 600 and two 1000 grit rods.

Turn box ceramic - Turn box ceramic/diamond

Are the diamond rods worth the extra money? Am I maybe missing something here? I'm looking to buy an alternative to the Sharpmaker, something that I can keep in the bag or car with me at all times. So no fancy edge reprofiling needs or the likes.
 
Depends on what kind of steel you are sharpening. The dual ceramic should be fine for basic steels like 1095 or 420/440 series stainless. Steels with harder carbides like S30V or D2 will be easier with the diamonds.
 
Thank you, I am not looking to sharpen super steels with that system. I've got AUS-8 on my current EDC. I also have 440C and B blades and then there's my Opinels with XC90 (carbon) and Sandvik 12c27-MOD (inox) blades.
 
Yeah, those two are 4 rod versions, but I have not been able to find a comparison yet. I didn't plan on buying a 2 rod one.
 
I've had mine for a while and find it very useful. It's easily packed and easy to use. If you're looking for a mirror edge then this is not for you.
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Tom1983 said:
Looking at the links, it seems the only difference is how the "deluxe" version (that's what it's being sold as at my local store) has two diamond and two ceramic rods, while the regular one has four ceramic rods. They both have two 600 and two 1000 grit rods.

Turn box ceramic - Turn box ceramic/diamond

Are the diamond rods worth the extra money? Am I maybe missing something here? I'm looking to buy an alternative to the Sharpmaker, something that I can keep in the bag or car with me at all times. So no fancy edge reprofiling needs or the likes.
Click to expand...

In a word, YES. This is actually one of the better deals I've seen for a V-crock setup with diamond rods. A lot less expensive than the equivalent Sharpmaker set with diamond, for which you'd be looking at ~ $100 or a little more spent.

Even if you're not using more wear-resistant steels, the small contact area of the rods means these V-crock sets can use all the help they can get. Not just for reprofiling, but being able to touch up a somewhat worn or even a damaged edge in just a few passes, versus much longer with a straight all-ceramic setup. For the little bit of extra money, it's a no-brainer to me ($25 vs. $18, roughly, at knifecenter). And you'll learn quickly how valuable the diamond is, if you do eventually start using more wear-resistant steels. You might notice this with the 440C you're already using, as it can sometimes be tougher to grind at higher hardness (like Buck Knives' older 440C was). Diamond is also much less prone to clogging, unlike the ceramic rods, which need more frequent cleaning to keep them working.


David
 
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The basic 4 rod turn box is great for touch ups and getting a knife that is somewhat dull to sharp and they are cheap. I have one but since I also have the Sharpmaker the Turn box just sits here.

Now regarding the "deluxe" one, if it was me I would be more apt to get the Lansky guided system for the same money or less. This would allow you to also repair knives and/or change the angle of the edge if desired. That to me makes it more versatile and worth the $35+ price for one and since it comes in a plastic case, you can still throw it in a backpack and take with you. Yes, it does take up more room than the little Turn box but it is not that bad nor does it weigh a ton either.
 
Thank you David! I was wondering whether a diamond 1000 grit would perform that much better than ceramic 1000 grit. In that case, it truly would be a no brainer.

They have three or four guided Lansky systems at the shop, Mike. But I did not like those one bit. I think they're great value for reprofiling edges, but I was just looking for something handy to sharpen a blade up with. I don't want to take my Sharpmaker with me everywhere I go and I am learning to keep a steady angle on a stone. They also have this tiny mini crock stick (check it out) for around 5 bucks, which is very pocket friendly and is not a complete nightmare like other pocket sharpeners or, better said, pocket knife destroyers.
 
The all-ceramic one that I have works great. Having the diamond rods would be worth the extra couple of dollars.
 
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