Three top sharpeners help you determine the proper sharpening angle.

Understanding sharpening angles is crucial for maximizing your knife’s performance. It doesn’t matter if you’re slicing a ripe tomato or carving a roast, the right angle makes all the difference. Let’s dive into the world of knife sharpening, where tradition meets innovation, and discover the top-tier systems that will keep your blades razor sharp.

I had three sharpening systems to use over one month. Luckily, I had a variety of knives that needed sharpening. I delegated what I felt were the appropriate knives for the sharpening system at hand.

One thing that was essential with each sharpener was safety first. Before you do anything, read the instructions and watch the video supplied by the manufacturer (if the latter is applicable). Move slowly—wearing light work gloves that offer dexterity wouldn’t hurt.

A.G. Russell Knives V Sharpener

• 5° per side, creating a compound 30° angle on the blade edge
• 90 percent+ Alumina Ceramic sharpening rods
• Diamond Rods (optional)
• Rod Storage
• Walnut base is 10.25 inches long
• Weight: 16 ounces
• Made in USA
• MSRP: $71.95

The A.G. Russell Knives V Sharpener is a simple yet highly effective tool for keeping your knives razor sharp. Designed with a sturdy walnut base, it holds two ceramic or diamond rods in a precise V-shape, making it easy to maintain a consistent edge. The ceramic rods, made from 90 percent+ alumina, are built to last for years—unless you drop and break them, of course. On the other hand, the diamond rods are more aggressive and perfect for restoring dull blades before you hone them to perfection with the ceramic rods.

Using the V Sharpener is a breeze. Hold your knife straight up and down, like you’re slicing cheese, and draw it down one side of the V and then the other. In no time, you’ll have a razor-sharp edge ready for action. The walnut base is 10.25 inches long and keeps everything neatly in place. If the ceramic rods start looking dark from metal buildup, a quick rub with an A.G. Russell Rust Eraser will return them to peak performance.

Why 15 Degrees

I caught up with Jake Broce from A.G. Russell Knives to ask why the company went with one sharpening angle, settling on 15 degrees.

“A.G. Russell preferred a 15-degree-per-side [compound 30-degree] bevel for his slicing knives because it created a sharper, more efficient cutting edge,” Jake explained. “His knives were ground thinner than most, which made them slice exceptionally well. Since his sharpener was made for most general-use and kitchen knives, he chose a 15-degree angle per side.

“He once worked with a German knifemaker, a Mrs. Dahmann, who hesitated to grind A.G.’s blades so thin out of concern they’d be too fragile. A.G. told her his customers wouldn’t break them because he’d teach them how to use them properly. For tasks like chopping, however, he used thicker blades and more obtuse bevels—he tailored each edge to its specific function.”

Setup & Use

Setting the V Sharpener up is a breeze. It was the second easiest to assemble of the test sharpeners. The ceramic rods are housed in the walnut base with a simple wooden gate. The diamond rods come in a plastic slip securely fastened with a plastic cap for protection against weather and from your other gear.

Once the sharpener is set up, start at the knife hilt on the diamond or ceramic and draw down. Keep it as steady as you can. Keep your hand behind the line depicted on the walnut base. Use moderate pressure, nothing too intense. Listen to the sound and feel the abrasives do their work.

This unit works easily at home or in the shop. It also fits easily into a pack for camping or a multiday cabin stay.

Report Card

The V Sharpener is a medium-weight unit. The only change I might make would be to add grit between the diamond and ceramic rods.

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or simply someone who appreciates a sharp blade, the V Sharpener is a solid investment that outperforms fancy gadgets and expensive machines. It’s simple, effective and built to last.

Warthog Elite A4 Sharpener

• 15° angle for high-end specialty knives
• Patented V-Sharp system for precision angle adjustments
• 4 Adjustable Angles of 15, 20, 25 and 30°
• 325-Grit Natural Diamond Hones w/finishing steels included
• Metal Frame Construction
• Durable Powder Coat Finish
• Additional 270, 325, 600 and 1,000 grit and ceramic hones available
• Base of deluxe African wood
• Weight: 1 pound 13 ounces
• Made in South Africa
• MSRP: $144.99

The Warthog Elite A4 Sharpener is a game-changer that keeps your knives razor sharp with minimal effort. It uses a patented V-Sharp system with two spring-loaded diamond hones that sharpen both sides of the blade simultaneously—no more struggling to hold the perfect angle.

The A4 has a sturdy wooden base that keeps everything stable while you work, and the metal frame construction ensures durability. You can adjust the sharpening angle to 15, 20, 25 or 30 degrees, making it versatile enough for everything from delicate sushi knives to rugged outdoor blades. The included 325-grit diamond honing stones do the heavy lifting, while built-in finishing steels refine the edge. For even more control, you can swap in aftermarket hones with grits ranging from 270 to 1,000, or ceramic for serrated blades.

Setup & Use

You’re ready to rock and roll once you open the package and assemble the unit. The A4 setup stands out as the easiest among the three test sharpening systems.

“If you can slice a tomato, you can sharpen a knife,” asserts the Warthog video. Hold the knife securely and slice down along the ready-set angles. It’s as easy as that. The A4 is the user-friendliest of the test sharpeners.

This one is made for use at home or in the shop. It can be awkward to pack and take along with you. Let it stay ready for action in a semi-permanent location and carry a smaller field-worthy sharpener to the outdoors, on the go, etc.

Report Card

The A4 is a lightweight sharpener. I wouldn’t change much to the already simplistic method of sharpening. Despite its complex nature, I like the multi-angle positions and the hand protector.

Using it is simple. Slide your knife through the vertical guide and the sharpener does the rest. Whether you’re a home cook, professional chef or an outdoor enthusiast, the A4 makes sharpening fast, easy and precise. It comes in multiple colors, so pick one that matches your style.

Work Sharp Professional Precision Adjust Elite Sharpener

• Digital Angle Indicator
• Comprehensive 10-Abrasive System
• Coarse diamond plates (220, 320, 400 grit)
• Fine diamond plates and ceramic plate (600, 800 grit, fine ceramic)
• Premium resin-bonded diamond plates (1200, 2,000, 3,000 grit)
• Leather Strop with .5 micron Chromium Oxide
• Metal V-Block Clamp
• Clamp Stabilizer Platform
• Small Knife Table Attachment
• Dedicated Serration Sharpener
• Precision Metal Sharpening Frame
• Heavy-duty carry case
• Weight: 21 pounds
• Designed, engineered and calibrated at Work Sharp’s facility in Ashland, Oregon. Work Sharp sources materials from various manufacturers, so some components may come from different locations.
• MSRP: $449.95

The Work Sharp Professional Precision Adjust Elite Sharpener is a powerhouse for anyone serious about keeping knives razor sharp. Built with solid metal construction and rugged hard plastic, the sharpener holds your blade steady while you work, ensuring accuracy every time. It features a fully adjustable angle system ranging from 15 to 30 degrees so you can fine tune your edge to match your needs.

The unit’s 10-abrasive system (1 x 6 inches) sets it apart. You get everything from coarse diamond plates (220, 320, 400, 600 and 800 grit) and ceramic hones to ultra-fine resin-bonded diamonds (1200, 2,000, 3,000 grit) and a leather strop for the final polished finish. Whether restoring a dull edge or refining an already sharp one, the Work Sharp covers you.

A V-block clamp securely holds your knife in place, making sharpening effortless, and the included knife table attachment ensures that even smaller blades get the same precision treatment. A rugged carry case keeps everything organized and portable when needed.

Setup & Use

While not challenging, setting this bad boy up takes time. The instructions are excellent, as all of them are for the reviewed sharpening units. Nonetheless, this required me to view a few videos. Read and watch to make yourself proficient in the use and setup. Though the Work Sharp is the hardest unit to assemble, it’s worth the trouble. Don’t let this factor deter you before giving it a chance. Take the time to familiarize yourself with the sharpener’s working parts and then you’ll be a believer. Once you master the process, you will pat yourself on the back!

The Work Sharp comes with a carrying case. However, where would you go besides a buddy’s house to show it off? It’s heavy and bulky for toting around. As a result, the sharpener is an ordained home and shop unit.

Report Card

I like the 10 sharpening abrasives and leather attachment with honing compound. That’s a nice personal touch. I love how effortlessly I can tuck the abrasive sharpening rod away when I’m done. Whenever I need to flip the blade or make adjustments, the handle slides right into its designated slot in a flash. Plus, checking the blade burr before flipping is a breeze. Bravo, Work Sharp!

I wish there were an easier way to tell the difference between the unit’s clamp and table numbers and how they relate to the digital reader. Of course, this aspect can easily be chalked up to user confusion.

If you’re a knife enthusiast, chef or collector, the Pro Precision Adjust Elite delivers professional-level results efficiently. It’s not just a sharpener—it’s an investment in keeping your blades performing at their best.

More Sharpening Articles:

• Knife Sharpening: What’s the Best Angle?
• 5 Myths About Knife Sharpening
• 5 Leading Sharpening Rods
• 4 Steps to Perfect Freehand Sharpening