wicked edge - do the new joints justify the extra $?

[Joao]

So, im thinking of getting a wicked edge. I wanna be able to get my knives retarded sharp, a polished edge would be great too.
Inevitably I stumbled upon the pro-pack I and II, and I understand the main difference is the new joint mechanism on the arms.

It must make a difference, but my question is, does it justify the extra $300? or can I get just as precise with a little practice?

some input on the matter would be greatly appreciated.

Joao

 

[Jastab]

I have both arm systems, and honestly the cheaper one will serve you fine. I ordered a pro pack 2, but at the time the new arms were backordered, so I was given the old style for the time being. The new ones are a lot nicer and allow for micro angle adjustment. Its also a lot stiffer and no free play. The old arms have a tiny amout of free play, but you can fix that by inserting a washer in the arm pivot. With any arm, you will get incredible results guaranteed. Start cheap, then you will realize what is a must to have, and what you can go without.

 

[GTP2K1]

The upgraded arms alone is about half the price of the pro pack II. $145 or so if memory serves.

 

[uncledog57]

I think it all depends on what you are looking to do with the system? The basic arms with a little practice will serve you just fine. You should and will get some of the sharpest knives you have ever owned. Then there is a whole new level with sub micron edges that setting with the upgraded arms and a angle gauge will get you. Of coarse OCD will have set in by now? And you will be selling>trading prized possessions to get new stones ( Shapton, Choseras, Ceramics) and strops in different flavors. Then there is the long days and nights with no sleep? All just for anther fix....
Have fun!!! See you on the forum!

 

[Joao]

I have both arm systems, and honestly the cheaper one will serve you fine. Start cheap, then you will realize what is a must to have, and what you can go without.

Thanks man! you were absolutely conclusive and were a great help! I needed someone to tell me that.. With everything in life, I always want to get the newest and greatest, I like good stuff, and this time around was the same, I just couldn't tell myself to get the second best. the problem with that is that I simply cant afford to spend €700 on a wicked edge.. so it would be a get the not-so-great (I know it's awesome, what i mean is, it's not the absolute best) or don't get anything at all and keep waiting, until I feel I can justify spending that kind of money on a sharpening system..

uncledog57, you did not help one bit I feel every bit of pain coming from what you just told me... I wanna :c
Maybe I could start with a propack I and from there, buy more stones and strops and perfect my edges a bit at a time... idk, you made me feel heartbroken

thanks for all the input guys!