When it comes to keeping your knives sharp, do you shy away from all in one kits?

In my last post, I wrote of the Spyderco Sharpmaker and it's relative ease of use.  Some of you might prefer an alternative method of sharpening, whether it be a different manufacturer's kit, the use of bench stones or ?.  The only kit National Knives currently carries is the Spyderco Sharpmaker, in fact most of National Knives sharpening products are produced by Spyderco. 

Here are some of Spyderco's Bench Sharpening Stones. 

Spyderco Bench Sharpening Stone, 2" x 8" x 1/2", Fine Grit 302F

Spyderco Bench Sharpening Stone, 2" x 8" x 1/2", Medium Grit 302M

Spyderco Bench Sharpening Stone, 2" x 8" x 1/2", Ultra Fine Grit 302UF

These stones will take care of most sharpening tasks, but take a bit of time and practice to find a perfect technique.  One advantage to using bench stones over a kit, is the user can sharpen their knife to whatever angle they prefer, where as kits may limit the angle.

Purchasing a set of these stones, if one so chooses, can get a bit pricier than a kit.  The 302F and 302M (top two) are $39.99 each + shipping (starting at $3.99 and .99 for each additional item) and the 302UF is $51.99 + shipping (starting at $3.99). 

These sharpening stones do not require the used of any type of lubricant, they are autoclave save, dishwasher safe and can be easily cleaned using a plastic scouring pad and an abrasive cleanser.  The high alumina ceramic used to make these is produced in the United States.

Rob