This Knife Sharpener Does One Thing Better Than Work Sharp!

[@pete762x51]

You stated that the Sharpal allows you to "...apply all the leverage..." That, however, is the one thing you really should NEVER do with a diamond hone. Light pressure is all you need to let the diamonds do their job. Hard pressure will only ruin the diamond coating and quickly render it useless.

[@gideonstactical]

True I use light pressure, but if you don’t have good consistent pressure you will not get a good consistent grind. 👍

[@figliodihades]

Ladies, you're both pretty.

[@tonnynijholt7090]

I think it's better to have more grip so you can maintain a better angle while sharpening. More consistent when you've proper grip.

[@mistersmith3986]

Remember to remove the ceramic rod once in a while on the Work Sharp and clean it with dish detergent, warm water ab a rough sponge. I just did mine after having it loaded up with steel. It was all black and wouldn't work anymore. After I cleaned it, it was clean and white and worked like new.

[@gregblake2764]

Before either of these two sharpeners were available I made my own field sharpener by epoxying course and fine credit card sized diamond stones onto opposite sides of a narrow wooden paddle. The handle allows me to get a solid grip on the paddle and keep my fingers away from the stones. It works great.

[@barrybaldwin5535]

I've owned & sharpened my collection of blades for decades & have bought & used many brands of natural stones, synthetic stones, diamond infused metal stones & ceramic rods. I agree that the Sharpal is well suited to carry as well as a trusted go-to in the home. The grits are appropriate for its' intended use & is easy, comfortable, effective & fun to use. Well worth the monetary investment.

[@Thegreywanderer42]

im a professional knife sharpener and ive used this tool for several years and i love it. its just about perfect. get it. you will love it

[@gideonstactical]

Awesome!! Glad to here you have had a good experience!

[@Durminator]

Hi, you mean worksharp or sharppal?

[@rikityrik]

So which one you been using?

[@markw.4679]

Which tool? He reviewed two in the video. I am curious what one you recommend. 👍

[@komendowski_sdba_stanray4653]

😊I remove the diamond plates from my Worksharp and stick it to my DMT Diafold sharpener and have made simple wooden handles with magnets and for most of my diamond plates including a ski sharpening jig. Also the cavity behind the Worksharp's plates fit a firemaking kit beautifully.

[@lonewandererbushcraftwildc6822]

I rest the worksharp on my knee with no problems. & the ceramic rods come in handy if you have a convex blade it deals with it nicely. Something that the other sharpener doesn't have. The worksharp may not be big in size but it certainly makes up for it in versatility

[@manuellucero8414]

Since you recommended the worksharp I bought 2 and it's my favorite, I sharpen from small Victorinox SAKs to giant knives good and easy, it's excellent. This new sharpener seems interesting for some applications. Good tip to scrape a ferro rod with the plate of the work sharp, I keep a ferro rod in the compartment under the sharpening plates.

[@johnhill7585]

My Sharpel has replaced my Work Sharp now. Lighter more compact and quite amazing with the 1200 grit and the leather sheath!

[@gideonstactical]

Glad to hear you experience John!

[@jerrychance8401]

I have the work sharp field sharpener and I love it. It’s quick and easy. I use it a lot for maintaining all my knives. As stated in your video it is cumbersome with larger knives so I tend to use it more like a file for something like my esee junglas.

[@wde1978]

Awesome video. I own both and never thought about the fact that they can be used as strikers in a pinch. I really appreciate you sharing your knowledge with the rest of us. I certainly learn something new every time I watch your videos.

[@gideonstactical]

You bet 👍

[@GrayWolfe-34]

I love your videos so much and your response to my comment you made me think, Why didn't I subscribe last night? So I came back this morning and now I'm one of your subs! Thank you once again for helping me find actually products I could use. I just made a major purchase which now I'm in debt. When I get it paid off, I will come back and purchase these items through your website or channel. Thank You once again!

[@gideonstactical]

@@GrayWolfe-34 that is awesome!! Thanks so much

[@thewatcher611]

I have been a huge fan of the WS Field Sharpener over the last decade. I have a couple of them. I definitely agree that although they are very capable tools for working on smaller blades, the only thing I wish I had....well, is the thing you just showed us. You left out one important detail: While you can use the Field sharpener carefully like a file, you've got the angle guide in the way, no matter what you're doing with it. This Sharpal doesn't have that hinderance. I have been waiting for quite some time to learn this. Thanks for sharing!!

[@Sedge63]

I have used the Sharpal for a few years now. You can sharpen on it like a conventional stone or use it as a file. I have the one with the black composite handle and it is the most versatile of the many diamond sharpening devices that I have.

[@huntergainer2431]

Ive bought one of these about 3 months ago has been working well. Just as you said in the video compact easy to carry works well keep it in my edc backpack. No complaints

[@nobodyatall7039]

I use stones about 1x3" super glued to 1x1" sections of rectangular aluminum tubing. This gives you the same localized pressure effect but works even better because you're applying force directly down over the work piece with a "scrubbing" action and the aluminum tubing is creating enough finger clearance for safety. Specifically, I use a coarse diamond stone adhered to one side of the tube, and soft Arkansas on the other, while the tube itself can store angle guides and sandpaper for stropping. The resulting kit only weighs a couple ounces and it is the only sharpening implement I use anymore, aside from a 1x6" double cut file for serious grinding.

[@patrickhowell2502]

I might try that but slightly longer

[@Greg.Mika.]

Just what I need for my pruning shears, thx mate!

[@gideonstactical]

Perfect!

[@itywhat6499]

Thank you for an awesome vid. I bought one from your store. Here's my take...Looking for a survival knife sharpening system? Here it is...Sharpener, strop, easy carry all in one. And you can add your favorite sharpening strop compound on the sheath. The handle also has over 6' of paracord wrap. Perfect to carry in your pack, or car, or use it at home. I highly recommend it. Yes, this does sound like a commercial, but it is worth the money.

[@arctodussimus6198]

I’ve seen the Sharpal here and there but have never seen a review. I think it makes more sense because of its slimmer profile. 👍🏼👍🏼 Appreciate your review and I will definitely get one now. The WorkSharp is rather bulky imho, so I like to keep a small ferro rod and tinder tabs in the space between the diamond panels. At least make use of the bulk 😉

[@HWCism]

I own at least five worksharp systems and have given at least three away as gifts. Love them . The new system looks interesting. Have to try at least one. Thanks

[@edcgearpocketknife]

You can also hold the knife still and get a better grip on the worksharp. Use the worksharp on the knife instead of using the knife on the worksharp.

[@ededc1198]

I am considering between this two and this was very informative. The handle/grip and the 1200 grit on the Sharpal seems like a better fit for what I need at the moment. But one or the other, thank you once again for putting the time and effort to test EDC products.

[@James-ke5sx]

Nice sharpener. I use something unusual called the 'Block Sharpener'. Made in USA, had the original 40 years ago. I carry it on a string around my neck so it's easily accessible.

[@thorin693]

Combine this with a falkniven cc4 and you have a great combo.

[@zachfudge24]

Either the CC4 or the Double stuff from spyderco are great to pair with this

[@thorin693]

@Zach Fudge Both are good but I like the cc4 because it is small enough for pocket carry.

[@omaralanis22]

I just got the worksharp field sharpener couple of weeks ago and it made sharpening all my blades an easy job to the point of actually enjoying the process . I’m able to get consistent razor sharp blades even in harder steels like cruwear, M4, magnacut , D2. I’m ordering another one to have in my truck or RV and thinking of tossing the all the whetstones I have . Would definitely recommend. I’ll look into this other one to use on machetes and axes and tools . Thank you for the information

[@DaryooshF.Sh.P-vq6mu]

My portable worksharp guided is from heaven. Years of using it. But as you mentioned that bodyguard looks way easier 😻

[@grattof]

I have the worksharp and it works great with small knives. I agree that it's not very comfortable for bigger tools.

[@anthonyanderson5310]

I just pop the diamond plate out of the worksharp. "To those who don't know the plates on the worksharp are held on with magnets only" which is another reason the worksharp is great because when you inevitably wear out the diamond plates you just buy replacements instead of the whole body plus you can get different grits than the stock option.

[@richardsmith9605]

When I came across your channel and watched some the videos, it really caught my attention. Then since subscribed, and am watching more... I really like the content you put out. Very interesting/informative, and appreciate you sharing the knowledge bro - keep it up! 👍🙂

[@richardrocha702]

Had mine for a few days...love it. That strop is worth the purchase $ alone. 🙂

[@flitdek]

I bought a Sharpla buddy Guard after first buying the Sharpal Duel grit 8"x3" Diamond wet stone and loving it. I really like the Sarpal Buddy Guard as it lets me sharpen Knives that have thumb studs and other grip type fixations on the blade that get in the way wen using a 3" wide sharpening stone. I really like the quality of Sharpal's products and have several other Sharpal sharpening tools . Great Video.

[@turnbasedtoddy7664]

I do still feel like the workshop is a little bit better value. As far as the grip, I believe the Work sharp is made to sit flat on a table not really holding in your hand. That’s how I use it anyway. I wish the other sharpener had the slopes for the different degrees of sharpness.

[@hachi666roku]

Fiskar’s Sharpener for the Shears and gardening tools… is very effective- $8 and just touching up after moderate use is easy to me

[@stevenrobertson6656]

Although it's more awkward to use I still like the Fallkniven DC4 . It's also very easy to carry.

[@boxant]

Been using a WaterLuu block sander as a portable sharpener, works great and can carry a very wide range of grit for very little weight (and cost).

[@georgesulea]

Just ordered one of the sharpals thanks to this video. Thanks:)

[@gideonstactical]

Hope you enjoy it!

[@genuinehawken]

This looks incredibly useful, thanks!

[@JayDMurphy05]

I got this! I use it along with my Worksharp Elite Sharpener

[@Woolsocks]

I’ve always just used a Bahco mill bastard file on my axes, they cut super quick and then I touch them up with my mini diamond files or a ceramic. I also happen to use files very regularly so I have one handy all the time, does the sharpal seem to cut quickly on the course stone

[@bigjim55able]

That looks like what I need for my 18" Gerber and 24" Cold Steel machetes as well as my Council ditch bank blade

[@charlescollier7217]

Thanks for sharing this, Aaron. It definitely interests me, because it seems like a more refined, efficient, and durable version of the system I currently use for my machetes and big knives. My "system" consists of a small paddle strop, about the size of this tool, with several grits of sandpaper layered around it. I usually just use 40 or 80 grit for cleaning up dings on machetes, and they're good to go in just a few strokes. But when I want to put a serious edge on a big knife, I use other grits - all the way to 2000, plus the actual strop. The whole package is a bit bulkier and less sturdy than the Sharpal, and I'm sure it's easier to keep the Sharpal surface in contact with the blade edge in a consistent way. The advantages of my system? Light, versatile, easily replaceable with wear, and SUPER cost effective. I'll be trying this one out though.

[@charlescollier7217]

UPDATE: I *LOVE* this thing! I got the version with the polymer handle and have used it on machetes, big camp knives, kitchen knives of all sizes, small outdoors fixed blades, and folders. It puts an excellent edge on everything, it's easier to use than the Work Sharp, and it's so easy to pack!

[@gaberoo9099]

Cool. May have to try that Sharpal. Thanks for the review.

[@billyoumans1486]

Just ordered from your Amazon site - the longer handle and the leather case for stropping were the difference for a field tool. Thanks for the review.

[@gideonstactical]

Glad to help, thanks Bill.

[@dennispoley6005]

I have a few of the Work Sharp GFS, love it. Do wish the fine side was a little finer, but it has the ceramic hone and the leather strop. When I'm working on the larger blades I take the sharpener to the tool instead of the tool to the sharpener. If it's gonna be a lil sketchy, I wear gloves.

[@browsman2328]

I have the Worksharp portable sharpener but I agree the grip is a little small so I just ordered the Sharpal from Amazon. Thanks for the recommendation.

[@gideonstactical]

Glad I could help.

[@John-gu7jq]

Another reat review. I have two of the Work Sharps based you your reviews but I can see the value of the Sharpal. I have a few of those Ontario SP-8's and they are tough to sharpen. I just ordered the Sharpal with your link. Can't wait to give it a try!

[@waynesmallwood6027]

A Fallkniven DC4 works great, too.

[@spektr540hemi]

I can totally see this being very easy to use and I will be getting one... Worksharp...been carrying since they first came out. Just take the plates OFF and slide them down the edge like you are making feathersticks ! EASY to do ! I routinely use them to sharpen axes, machetes and even swords. Not hard at all.

[@deadronin47]

Lansky sharpened rods has been my go to for a decade The lansky cold steel serrated one really does good work less that 10$ for any of them

[@eyeofthetiger4184]

G'day Aaron, I am aware there's an array of folding handle jobs out there, but I really like that this design is one solid piece with leather and paracord as bonuses. You can hold the Worksharp in other grips, though you need to be mighty careful. So yep makes perfect sense mate, horses for ...... coarses : ) I reckon a dual grit axe puck is a fantastic portable ..........all round ....option too : ) ...... and if you do carry an axe/hatchet/machete or the like, it's worth carrying a proper file, in addition to one's chosen "sharpener" IMO, besides, its good for many other uses and a huge upgrade compared to what is found on Leathermen and SAKs. Cheers Duke.

[@barkingspider2007]

I generally keep my knives and tools sharp. The pocket knives are generally K390, REX45, Magnacut, D2 or other high-performance steel. When the knife needs sharpening it gets left on my bench, and out with a brand-new edge on another knife. Sharpening is an at-home affair when the mood to sharpen comes over me. The idea of leaving the house with a dull knife never comes to mind. That said I do own the worksharp mobile kit and many others. They are deployed about as often as the airbags in my truck. Great Video! I may buy the sharpener featured in your video anyway. 😎👍

[@barrybueler3356]

I own both and if I had to pick the sharpal would have to be my keeper.

[@hillbillyfromtheswamp6223]

I have a few products from sharpal and they've been fantastic. Good to see them on the channel. Think they're looked over quite Abit.

[@eachday9538]

Something like the Sharp Pal but with sharpening surface all the way along the handle. A sheath up each end. Sheath of end not being used serves as handle texture rather than parawrap.

[@GrdDog]

Excellent information; I just happen to be looking for a sharpener for different blades, I think I will buy both of them.

[@dlrmon1]

That thing reminded me of my old Schrade hone. Do like the handle...

[@richardwysocki8300]

Another great review! Thanks, Aaron!

[@gideonstactical]

Thanks richard!

[@EnriqueOchoaMaldonado-uc8kl]

Todos los afiladores están muy buenos, para tenerlos todos, aunque el afilador tipo lima se me hizo un poco caro..!! Excelente video..!!

[@chkilou]

After my long research on Amazon to find the best sharpening tool below $40, I ended up in this face-off. I was happy to find your video that does the exact comparison. My conclusion is that none of them is a bad choice. However, if you are a newbie like me that feels like needing an angle guide, if you use serrated blades, smaller knives and fish hooks get the Work Sharp Guided Field Sharpener. If you mainly use larger tools like shown in this video, get the Sharpal. I’ve already ordered both and I’ll probably return the Sharpal (127N with a plastic handle instead of the paracord) because I feel like it won’t suit my needs except for better sharpening my scandis. One more thing to consider is that the leather strop on the Sharpal isn’t conditioned with abrasive while the Work Sharp is.

[@LegionTacticoolCutlery]

Get'em both!!! BTW Dicks sells the WorkSharp for $14.99. At least in my area.

[@Stoney_AKA_James]

Looks like a viable sharpening option!

[@MechanicallyMusical]

Witch strop do you prefer and you you use any compound on either strop? Also how has the coating held up on the buddy guard?

[@gideonstactical]

I like the Sharpal strop more because it’s bigger, and no I usually don’t use a compound

[@charlessalmond7076]

As part of my edc I carry a business card style dbl sided diamond steel in my wallet. Had it for a few years, I can't remember the brand. If im just doing a overnight I usually won't take another. More than one night? I'm happy with any brand 2 sided diamond steel with around 3-360 on one side and 7-800 on the other. And a small ceramic rod. I do like my worksharp field sharpener but it takes a good bit of pack space.

[@mikemoore1432]

Have to pick one up,Good addition to the backpack lol,Thanks for the info again partner 👍

[@gideonstactical]

Thanks for watching 👍

[@GrayWolfe-34]

First time to your channel, you're definitely impressive. Appreciate the info on the Work Sharp SHARPAL Plus the Work Sharp Guided Field Sharpener. I also found The Work Sharp Precision Adjust Elite Knife Sharpener. Sharpening stones they will come In handy. I can't wait to order a sharpening buddy and the others!

[@gideonstactical]

Glad you enjoyed the video!

[@peterperivolaris3278]

If you had to recommend one to someone new to knife sharpening which would you recommend ?

[@gideonstactical]

Probably the worksharp, helps give consistent angle

[@Tony_Xie]

I have both，and I love both sharpener

[@mdubb4855]

I usually turn to my 2nd, 3rd, or 4th knife.

[@rolandrhodes1559]

I have been watching that one now I know thanks!

[@jamesmahan8118]

My understanding was the worksharp was suppose to be set on something, like a rock or table top and not necessarily held. The rubber of the guides keep it from sliding around. For the larger tools you can post the tool, like you did at the beginning of your video and drag the worksharp against the blade instead of dragging the blade against the worksharp. I also like how worksharp put that little compartment on the inside. I put fires tarter material in the one I use in the field and the added broadhead wrench is just another plus. They are suppose to be carried with the sharpening surfaces "faced in". I use the fine in the field more as I always do a maintenance sharpening right after using the blade. So I put the fine surface on the broadhead side. That way when I turn the fine surface around my firestarter material does not fall out. I have three of these worksharps, One for my truck, one for my outdoor kitchen/home and one for my field pack. I do like the product you are showing but I have been using this sharpener for around 8 years now and have it down to a science. Thanks for the vieo.

[@roostershooter76]

My opinion is, I'd rather have a coarser work edge, because they're more durable. I still prefer the Worksharp even though I've never used the edge guide system. As for getting the damaged areas out of blades and axe heads, I use an old fashioned "Puck" style sharpener to get the bad spots out.

[@BD-dr1hw]

Why would a coarser edge be more durable? I would think exactly the opposite. Assuming the same edge angle on each of course.

[@escapetherace1943]

@@BD-dr1hw no it isn't more durable, it's actually less durable because it's less sharp, he doesn't know what he's talking about. If he cares about durability angle is what matters and steel type

[@edcgearpocketknife]

I love the field sharpener by worksharp.

[@collinjones311]

Curious, im brand new to sharpening etc. for the becker knives( specifically the bl18 harpoon) when they say its 20 degrees, would a tool like this work with the20 degree guide, or would the guide actually be 10 degrees making bith sides add up to 20? Im assuming the becker knives are 20 degrees on each side rather than 20 degree inclusive. If anyone could shed some light it would be greatly appreciated. Trying to find an option like this that would work for hime our out and about

[@topselectionsurvivalgear]

Sharpal is one of the best sharpeners out there.

[@737AMT]

What was the pocket knife shown being sharpened?

[@gideonstactical]

It’s an SRM, can’t remember the model name off top my head. Video will be coming on it soon.

[@oferbechor1579]

THANK YOU

[@bayshark7o7]

U do any reviews on off grid knives? Just ordered their everyday fixie. Thnx

[@gladeshunter8796]

I prefer the Smith’s diamond sharpener over the worksharp field sharpener when it comes to the bigger blades like my Junglas or machetes . I need to pick up one of those Sharp pals looks like better version of the Smith .

[@Laurarium]

Hi,Aron. Would you take a look at the OKC new magnacut steel fixed blade which is just around 120 at blade HQ, which is an amzing deal. Another thing is that I am wondering why you don’t review any surefire product, since they are renowned and my E2-T MV has been amzing.will you have any plans about surefires?

[@Paul-up3pb]

Thank you 👍.

[@timothyorendorff7642]

The 1200 grit is brilliant.

[@daintycalf9800]

Hey Aaron. I’m interested in that esee. I saw a bladehq saying that the scales are a ‘polished’ micarta. Does that make them more slick then regular micarta? How do they feel? Thanks. Ps love the vids keep up the great work

[@gideonstactical]

Thanks so much and good question. The Micarta is not coarse it is smoother but the ribs on it give good traction. It is not slick like a Becker. Hope that helps.

[@jeffreyjohnston2445]

G10 3d handles

[@Surv1ve_Thrive]

When the boards fill with steel fragments dont they lose effectiveness quickly? Does look smart.

[@gideonstactical]

Then all you do is clean them and you are good to go.

[@WilliamBowden-u7n]

Great idea. Thanks. 😊

[@gideonstactical]

You’re welcome 😊

[@edwardschofield6692]

Hi Aaron can't have enough sharpening tools.I have a Jewel stick I like.It is likea butcher steel length.It comes in 2 sizes.3 sided curved Course,Med,Fine.Not as light as your still portable.Have got my ax very sharp.Touched my jeans and cut them.Stay sharp😅

[@nicholashayes72]

My field set up for tool maintenance is actually the diamond side of my letter wave and the spyderco double stuff ceramic. I have found that set up allows me to cure a multitude of sins in the field.

[@kennethkrieb3018]

Thanks Aar. Another excellent, informative video

[@gideonstactical]

Glad you enjoyed it Kenneth!

[@kevinschmith9379]

It’s in my cart just hoping it will go on sale

[@Intoxacajun]

Love the little workshop tool, its my go to but it is hard to hold after a while. Wish they would have made it with a handle that folded over the shapener that would protect it while proving a handle when sharpening. I picked up a Husky brand one at Home of Da Po for around $10 that has 400 on one side and 600 on the other with a folding handle that folds over the stones while not using. Then folds out for a handle when using.

[@recoil53]

You can get them for less than $6 now. I just wish somebody would put a ceramic stone on one edge of the diamonds.

[@Intoxacajun]

@@recoil53 Yep, I keep waiting for someone to make one like the husky with diamond on both top and bottom with different grits and with a ceramic on one side and strop on the other!!

[@toddk1377]

I have a bunch of sharpeners I use mostly at home, but for in the field use, the Worksharp field sharpener has been a great tool when it's needed. That along with a pen style diamond rod sharpener has been plenty to fix all kinds of damages I've incurred on my axes and knives as well as serrations if needed. Only thing I wasn't able to fix in the field was my Kershaw camp 18 when I was chopping some large branches on a RR tie at deer camp, didn't see the steel in the tie and I ended up hitting it more than once and put some huge rolls and a chip in the edge. That required the Worksharp to fix as it needed a good amount of work. I can see how this sharpener you showed can be a great tool for in the field, especially due to the grip for control and for those who maybe don't have a good field sharpener or prefers more grip on their sharpener.

[@matthewtaylor9063]

Thanks I'm buying

[@TavinSchempp-gn7tc]

I just use a speedy Sharp for on the go

[@Edward_ZS]

Do you still carry a sharpening puck if you have one of these sharpeners?

[@gideonstactical]

Usually not

[@brandondoss5896]

What would you recommend for a recurve blade?

[@gideonstactical]

Rod sharpeners tend to work better for recurves

[@brandondoss5896]

@@gideonstactical Do you have one you recommend?

[@2shotsofthebeans]

I have been looking for a trustworthy sharpener lately and will have to try out this sharpal, but what is the brand or model of that machete you held up in the beginning?

[@davidg8594]

Neat, thanks!

[@ironman2326]

My step-dad took me to Cabella's and let me pick out $75 worth of Christmas gifts so I got a Work Sharp knife sharpener (and some 9mm ammo). I absolutely LOVE it! Just saying.

[@leeweisberg4045]

Great video keep them coming.

[@Ceriva09]

i used a Victorinox Dual sharp for a long time now. Its about the size of a pen so its not ideal for bigger blades but it still works in a pinch and its weight is basicly non existent

[@loganholmberg2295]

Ive been using a smal falkniven ceramic/diamond stone for years and I love it. The one thing I don't love is the pinch I got to use to hold it while sharpening.....Im defiantly picking on of these up to try it. Cramp gree sharpening would be nice.😂😂 Note Ive also been using the leather case for my falkniven stone to finish the knife off. I felt I was just being a cheap weirdo using it like that cause keeping track of or carrying a strope is a pain in the ass. Nice to know Im not the only now doing something like that,😂😂