I really don't need a sharpener for knives. I can get them sharp enough to shave with the stones I have. I realize the KME is the top of the line but it's also 80.00 t0 90.00, depending on the stones chosen. I need an angled sharpener for three blade heads. I can get the fairly sharp with a flat stone but think an adjustable sharpener would be better. Is there a resonably priced angled sharpener out there that will get the job done. I realize the KME is a GREAT sharpener and worth the price but can't justify the price right now. Thanks, Don
Try one of the 3-Blade "CC" sharpeners from 3 Rivers.
Assuming you're not starting from scratch as far as your edge goes, I find that they do a great job. I usually combine this with a diamond hone. And even if you ultimately decide to go with something larger/more elaborate for home sharpening, the CC is perfect for taking along for field touch-ups.
Just use a file.
Agree with MCS....A file will work great on the 3 blade heads--I just file across two blades at once and the angle takes care of itself. I can get my Woodsman heads to shave hair just that way alone.
Snuffer tamer from 3 rivers..
It's only 25 bucks or so and works great on 3 blade heads..
Been using a file for awhile now and see no reason to change
I use a file as stated above than finish on a 1200 grit diamond stone.
I have bought all sorts of sharpeners over the years including a KME, nothing wrong with them, I just keep going back to my file. A good file is all I will use from now on.
the kme, and most other sharpeners, will not work with a 3 blade head. it's too easy to get a 3 blade "shaving sharp" with just a good grobet or nicholsen file, then strop on carboard.
I'll recommend this:
Get a chainsaw raker file -- they are very inexpensive. File the three-blade head (like a snuffer or a woodsman) just like in the video on the 3Rivers website.
THEN: Use the edge of the raker file to steel the blades like a butcher steels a knife. The edge of a raker file is smooth steel without "teeth" and will polish the edges to razor sharpness. Go easy and don't use much pressure.
Shaving sharp in no time and at a very low cost. It is also very easy, and it is only one tool that will fit in your pocket or pack.
I put a little wood handle on all my raker files to keep my fingers a little farther away from the sharp blade as I sharpen. I would recommend doing that.
Use a file and make my Woodsman heads shave.
Ok lots of file users here. I like it, simple. What kind of files do you guys use? Stuff you can get at lowes, home depot, etc?