Rating: - Take the work out of sharpening.
I have a set of Calphalon knives that I'm absolutely in love with. This sharpener is the only thing inorganic that touches these blades. It really takes the work out of sharpening and I would recommend this product to anyone.
Rating: - Works better than anything else I've tried!
I've tried sharpening rods, stones, blocks, and more in an attempt to keep my kitchen knives sharp, and none worked nearly as well as this little gadget. I've owned this one for a couple of years now and it still does the job. You just slide the knife in and out of the "mouth" of it a few times until a satisfactory sharpening is achieved. I only wish I could use it for scissors, too!
Rating: - Better than electric!
Several years ago, I bought an electric sharpening system for around $40 and was never very impressed. This Fiskars sharpener is 10 times better! It puts a razor-like edge on my knives with very little effort. I took it to my mother's house to do her knives, and all she could say was "WOW!" I would recommend this item to all.
Rating: - A Reasonable Substitute for a Whetstone
If one really wants to put a razor sharp edge on an axe or knife, a set of diamond whetstones is the best way to do it. This painstaking manual process requires time and proper technique. Beware: a razor sharp edge is exactly that and not to be trifled with. On the other hand, if "pretty darn sharp" is good enough...and it should be for most utility purposes...a dedicated sharpening tool like the Fiskars will get the job done quickly and with minimum risk to one's fingers. There are a number of similar products on the market. This one comes from a reputable manufacturer at a good price point.
Rating: - great sharpener
I love my sharpener, it restores the factory razor edge with ease, a must have.
- Take the work out of sharpening.
- A Reasonable Substitute for a Whetstone