I鈥檝e been using this Hone sharpener for a few weeks now and I鈥檓 really loving it so far. I鈥檓 a physician; I have a special appreciation for both precision and sharp blades. I鈥檝e tried countless sharpeners; the electric and pullthrough sharpeners were too limited and felt like they were chewing up my knives. More complicated sharpeners like the Lansky, Spiderco, and Apex are great, but they turn sharpening into a big production and they just end up living unused on the back of the shelf.
This rolling mechanism that the Hone uses is the perfect intermediary for me. It鈥檚 simple and fast to use, it can sit on my counter, and it gives a consistent good angle (as long as it鈥檚 15 or 20 degrees) I first saw the Horl, but I honestly don鈥檛 see how that company justifies the price they charge. The Horl does have some beautiful wood finishes, but the Hone is functionally superior. Specifically, the Hone knife holder has integrated feet and additional holders for narrow blades that just makes sense to me.
One important thing to note is that these diamond stones need to go through a break in period and they start feeling significantly smoother after a few uses. I thought I was wearing them out but they are actually just wearing to their proper grit. The company cleared this up for me, but it was initially a bit confusing.