SAK Sharpening

[mem]

I have a Vic Huntsman that I use for camp chores including cleaning fish. I'd like to sharpen it but the more I read about it, the more intimadated I become (way too much geometry involved). Is there a "simple" way to sharpen the SAK that will work for simple chores like cleaning fish? I see that the Sharpmaker is highly recommended in other posts. Maybe that's the way to go?

 

[TheSavageChavez]

I would recommend the sharpmaker, like you said. In the instructional DVD it comes with, Sal sharpens the cameramans Sak with it. He gets it shaving sharp in just a few minutes. So :thumbup: for the sharpmaker.

 

[Bill DeShivs]

Sharpening knives is not hard, even by hand. The two bevels have to meet, and be relatively smooth. Angles don't matter too much-20 degrees or less per side. Don't lay your SAK blade flat on the stone-raise it slightly, and sharpen.
Simple.
Way too many people make too big a deal of it. I would have never thought the jig-type sharpeners would be so popular.

 

[tapedeck74]

I find the SAK to be one of the easiest knives to sharpen freehand. If you want to just get some knives sharp, go get yourself a Sharpmaker or other jig system. If you Really want to know how to sharpen a knife, alter geometry, etc... go get a couple of stones, be they diamond or natural, and put in some time learning the skills. There is a wealth of information on this site and all over the net that will help you get good at it if you're willing to practice.

 

[moxie]

I use 8-10 strokes on a good sharpening steel (I have a Henckels), followed by a few strokes on a ceramic stick. Sharp enough!! If it's really, really, dull, you might want to run it over a fine washita stone (or any sharpening stone) a few strokes before the steel and stick. This procedure works on all my knives well enough for me.