Work Sharp is a respected company specializing in precision sharpening tools, known for delivering reliable and efficient solutions for maintaining and sharpening knives, tools, and outdoor gear. Work Sharp has developed a range of products that cater to both professional and hobbyist users, offering easy-to-use and durable sharpening systems. With a focus on enhancing the performance and longevity of cutting tools, Work Sharp has built a solid reputation in the industry, combining practical design with robust functionality with their sharpeners ranging broadly in use case and pricing. This past spring I picked up the Work Sharp Precision Adjust – Elite Knife Sharpener on a whim while picking up some supplies for the U.S. Army SERE course. This product from Work Sharp will be the focus of this review today.
The Work Sharp Precision Adjust – Elite Knife Sharpener was privately purchased by myself and Work Sharp has not been allowed to preview this article prior to publication. I have been using this sharpener for the past 6 months on a variety of blades ranging from small pocket knives to some of my larger kitchen knives.
Specifications: Work Sharp Precision Adjust – Elite Knife Sharpener
Sharpening Angles
- Adjustable from 15° to 30° in 1° increments, allowing for precise control over the sharpening angle.
- Sharpening System:
- Tri-Brasive
Rod: Includes three different abrasives:
- Coarse (320 grit) Diamond Plate
- Fine (600 grit) Diamond Plate
- Extra-Fine Ceramic Plate
- Leather Strop: For finishing and polishing the edge.
- Tri-Brasive
- Clamping Mechanism:
- Secure clamp holds the knife in place during sharpening, ensuring consistent angles.
- Rotating clamp design allows easy sharpening on both sides of the blade without removing the knife.
- Sharpening Capacity:
- Compatible with a wide variety of knives, including kitchen knives, pocket knives, hunting knives, and more.
- Base:
- Stable, weighted base provides a solid foundation during sharpening.
- Non-slip feet for additional stability.
- Portability:
- Compact and easily disassembled for storage or transport.
- Included Accessories:
- Carry case for storage and portability.
- Optional 1500 grit diamond plate and 2 additional ceramic honing rods available in the Elite kit.
Design and Construction: Work Sharp Precision Adjust – Elite Knife Sharpener
when unboxing the sharpener, the Work Sharp Precision Adjust Elite impressed me with its well-thought-out and sturdy construction considering gits entirely made out of plastic. The base of the unit is weighted and fitted with non-slip feet, which keeps it securely anchored during use. This stability is crucial when sharpening knives, as it reduces the risk of slips and helps maintain consistent results.
Central to the system is the Tri-Brasive rod, which combines three sharpening surfaces: a coarse 320-grit diamond plate, a fine 600-grit diamond plate, and an extra-fine ceramic plate. Additionally, the Elite version includes a leather strop, which is used to polish and refine the edge to a high level of sharpness. This combination allows you to move seamlessly through the sharpening process, from initial material removal to the final polish.
A key feature of the Precision Adjust Elite is its adjustable sharpening angle, which can be set between 15° and 30° in 1° increments. This precision allows for customization based on the specific knife or tool, ensuring that you can achieve the exact edge you need. The angle adjustment is smooth and intuitive, allowing even those new to sharpening to quickly find the right setting. I had very good results when adjusting my sharpening angle and making micro-adjustments.
The knife clamp, which secures the blade in place during sharpening, is another important component. It’s designed to accommodate various knife sizes and shapes, and its rotating feature allows you to sharpen both sides of the blade without having to reposition the knife. This adds to the system’s efficiency and ease of use.
User Experience and Accessibility: Work Sharp Precision Adjust – Elite Knife Sharpener
One of the strengths of the Work Sharp Precision Adjust Elite is its accessibility to users of all experience levels. Setting up the system is straightforward, and the included instructions are clear and easy to follow. Even if you’re not familiar with knife sharpening, you should be able to start using the system without much difficulty.
The adjustable angle guide is particularly beneficial for beginners, as it removes much of the guesswork involved in maintaining a consistent sharpening angle. Simply set the desired angle, secure the knife in the clamp, and begin sharpening. The ability to fine-tune the angle in 1° increments gives you the control needed to achieve a precise edge.
The Tri-Brasive rod enhances the user experience by integrating three different sharpening surfaces into one tool. This design eliminates the need to switch between separate sharpening stones, making the process more efficient and less prone to error. However, it’s important to maintain a steady hand and consistent pressure while sharpening, as uneven movements could lead to an irregular edge. While the system simplifies the sharpening process, achieving the best results may require some practice, especially for those new to the task.
Performance and Edge Quality: Work Sharp Precision Adjust – Elite Knife Sharpener
In terms of performance, the Work Sharp Precision Adjust Elite delivers reliable and impressive results. The diamond plates are effective at sharpening a wide variety of blade steels, from softer kitchen knives to harder outdoor and tactical blades. The coarse 320-grit diamond plate excels at restoring dull or damaged edges, removing material quickly and effectively. This sharpener also speeds up the sharpening process in my experience.
As you move through the finer grits and finally to the ceramic honing plate, the edge becomes progressively sharper and more refined. The leather strop, included in the Elite version, is a valuable addition, allowing you to polish the blade to a near-mirror finish. This final step removes any residual burrs and further enhances the sharpness of the edge, making it ideal for precise cutting tasks.
Versatility and Application: Work Sharp Precision Adjust – Elite Knife Sharpener
The Work Sharp Precision Adjust Elite is a versatile sharpening system capable of handling a wide range of knives and tools. The adjustable angle feature makes it suitable for various types of knives, including kitchen knives, pocket knives, hunting knives, and more. Whether you’re sharpening a delicate chef’s knife or a robust outdoor blade, the Precision Adjust Elite is equipped to handle the task to a degree. The plastic construction of the sharpener is up to the task of sharpening most knives but its clear that if the sharpener was made from aluminum it would be easier to use.
Pros
- Adjustable Angle: Offers precise control over the sharpening angle, suitable for various types of knives.
- Tri-Brasive Rod: Combines three sharpening surfaces, allowing for a complete sharpening process within one tool.
- Consistent Results: The angle guide ensures uniform sharpening across the blade.
- Versatility: Compatible with a wide range of knife types and sizes.
- Leather Strop: Adds an extra level of refinement and sharpness to the edge.
Cons
- Practice Required: Achieving the best results may take some practice, particularly for beginners.
- Tool Limitations: Primarily designed for knives and may not be ideal for certain tools or serrated blades.
Final Thoughts: Work Sharp Precision Adjust – Elite Knife Sharpener
The Work Sharp Precision Adjust Elite Knife Sharpener is a well-engineered and highly effective tool for maintaining sharp, well-honed knives. Its combination of adjustable angles, integrated Tri-Brasive rod, and included leather strop makes it a versatile and precise sharpening system suitable for a wide range of applications. While it may require some practice to master, the results are consistently impressive, making it a valuable tool for anyone serious about keeping their knives in top condition. This sharpener has drastically sped up my knife-sharpening process and I adore this product but it is obvious to me that the Pro version of the sharpener is superior and is the option I would recommend if the price does not dissuade you.
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