I want to thank you for this and all the other videos you have shared on sharpening systems. They have been very helpful and I have learned a great deal from them. Please continue sharing your experiences in this area. Thanks!
Wow, I've been waiting on this vid from you for awhile now...great talking points for each system. I just got into hand sharpening a couple of months ago and you have been my go to guy so far in terms of information which is why (back then) I chose to purchase the EdgePro with Chosera stones. Looks like I now have to possible reconsider my interest in the Wicked Edge instead. I'm still very 'green' with sharpening tho, so I'll take it slow. Thank you for the great vids!
Thanks for the review. I think you covered most of the points. However, you did not mention three things: (a) The time it takes to achieve the same result. If you were sharpening a couple of identical 8" kitchen knives to a similar sharpness, do you think there would be a significant difference in the time required? (b) Suitability for different blade profiles. A kitchen knife is one thing, but the fancier folders are another. Also, (c) you made no comment on sharpening blades with serrations.
Good vid. So now. What would you say as far as time goes do you think the wicked edge or a set of DMT's with some good quality Japanese waterstones would be faster and out perform the wicked edge? Being in the right hands of course. Also I've recently visited the wickededge site and I've seen a lot of higher grit stones. What would be an all inclusive package? Is there anything that you would recommend buying in addition to the wicked edge? A strop? A sharpmaker for touch ups? Etc.
The fancy model of the Wicked Edge is now approaching $1000. Thanks but I will take the very reasonably priced Edge Pro at $225 with a full set of stones.
For $1000 you can get an Edge Pro Professional with a set of Chosera's or Shapton Pro stones and get better results than the wicked edge (with a bit of practice). I own both, and the tsprof, but I keep going back to the Edge Pro because of the minimal setup time. Not to mention the Edge Pro and tsprof have a crazy amount of stone options.
@Therka Marka with the magnet on the pro and the slide guide it holds tight like the clamp, but is significantly more versatile with more stone options. Not to mention, if you move on to strops with diamond compound, both systems will yield identical results assuming you use the same abrasives. If you have consistency problems with the edge pro professional, it's your own limitations, not the machine's.
I was looking at both systems but the expense for someone who only sharpens a few knives was rediculous. Although I can free hand reasonably well I really wanted something with a clamp. I found a sharpener called a KME and bought it with the diamond kit. After getting some feedback from the manufacturer about how to set the knife in the clamp evenly, I am amazed at how well this works. For those of us who don't do a lot of knives but want quality I'd love to hear your impression of it.
Assume you're talking the Edge Pro Apex as the Professional is all metal. Both are good machines. I don't trust the precise Angle Adjustment though because the Wicked Edge clamping system tries to centre the blade so one side is usually off by 1 degree, so you need to set it up with an angle cube to have it precise. Which is the same way I set up the Edge Pro, then record it and I use the drill collar to compensate for stone variation and it's pretty repeatable. I do like the top of the line Wicked Edge and will probably pick one up. Good comparison. Just got a set of Shapton glass stones for the Edge Pro they work great. The other thing is you still can't do serrations in the Wicked Edge that I know of, they said they were coming out with something.
How is the portability of the WIcked Edge? Which uses less steel in each sharpening?Also Ben Dale has been awesome help with my EP in terms of advice and parts, how is Clay Allison with this stuff ( sorry if the name is spelled wrong?)
So is wicked edge hair whittling out the box? And if so which package did you purchase? Know they have em ranging from a couple hundred up to over 1k dollars. Got my eye on the 400-500 $ system, think it's the pro 1, and hoping that will be a vast improvement on my cheap $20 stones and will get my knives hair whittling sharp. I figure taking most of the possibility for human error out of the equation will already help quite a bit.
Hey buddy. He is mia. Has been for some time now. He has videos on using the wicked edge. I think he says what he got. He has the basic to today's standard. With extra stones
+Stoney Beek Thanks for the info. Ended up watching his other videos and figured it out. Ended up getting the pro pack 1 and extra ceramic stones. Feel guilty paying so much not being in the industry and just buying this for personal use but maybe I can sharpen all my friends knives and charge them to help justify this buy hahaha.
Thank you very much for making this video. Ive recently been thinking about which system to upgrade to and these two are the only systems Im really interested in, but I didnt know which to buy. Your video has really made the differences between these systems very clear and made my decision very clear. I do still have one concern. How is the WE at sharpening recurved blades? Most of my knives are recurves and it is very important to me that my next sharpening system can sharpen them without issue
I recently bought a Edge Pro "Full Monty" kit from Mark Richmond. It came with a digital angle finder to simplify angle setting and it works great ! Also they sent a really strong magnet to tape or glue under the machine base which really helps with keeping the blade stable and holding it on the base. I got Shapton glass stones, which are all the same thickness and they are really thick. You may want to check into the updates J... thanks for the helpful video. I am enjoying my Edge Pro a lot!
Thanks to you, I think I'm going to pick up a Wicked Edge. Honestly, I didn't really know about either product until this week. My Spyderco Sharpmaker worked ok but due to my flawed technique, I messed up a couple edges on my knives so I was looking for something different.
Clamping systems are inherently inaccurate depending on the geometry of the knife. In some cases you will have to use painter's tape to overcome a knife that has a design that isn't dead flat. Most folders today aren't dead flat. Knives on small folders can't even be sharpened on the WE. I still think that freehand sharpening that will take practice is better than either the EdgePro or the WE. You must make a commitment to learn how to freehand sharpen and then practice. Everyone wants a shortcut, but with shortcuts you have compromises. If I was absolutely against freehand sharpening, I'd just buy a 1"x30" Harbor Freight belt grinder for $50. and buy $25.00 worth of belts. , but that will also take practice. I've seen people on youtube over convexing their blade's edge on overly slack belts and then complain that it won't cut through paper. If you end up with a 40-degree angle on each side from over convexing on a slack belt, of course it won't cut paper, because you've created an edge that is similar to an axe or a wood splitting maul.
you mentioned in a previous vid about the wicked edge producing a sharp tip. i think in the microscope vid. is it just easier to not destroy a tip with the wicked edge. anyway any thoughts on tip sharpening between the systems?
I also have another ?. What makes the stones stay flat on the wicked edge? I was watching a vid of clay and he was doing a traditional Japanese knife with a single side edge and used the two exact stones to flatten each other. I these were only for the Japanese water stones that the Wicked edge offers, what makes the other stones not able to go unflat? How can they do that? What is it that they use that makes the stones stay flat? Also how long would these stones last if purchased and used
Oh, one other point. The Edge-Pro comes in two different models: the Apex and the (more expensive and easier-to-use) Professional. I assume you were using the Apex rather than the Professional in your comparison - correct?
Great comparison, thanks! I finally made the switch myself, in part due to this review. Everything you said is right on. The edge pro was great on big flat kitchen knives but I always had issues with pocket knives and thicker grinds. The price is the only disadvantage at 4x more for the WE, but many times the WE will put a better edge on with 600 grit than running the stone gamet with the edge pro. Given this, the results of the edge pro are near the same price as the WE50 Go!
Honestly both systems produce excellent tips, and both systems can easily round the tips if not careful. I will give the "needle sharp tip" award to the WE however. Due to the fixed angle it can produce some of the pointiest and sharpest tips that I've ever seen. :)
It sticks to the table and keeps an angle just as same as the Edge Pro. Don't have as many stones but I'm pretty sure you could fit a Edge Pro stone in it. You can also get a base plate that you can glue some leather to for fixed stropping (great for precise micro bevels). Only thing that wont work as well (for both systems) is heavy reprofiling. Shops have been using these types of jiggs for ages so there's no special formula that you're missing out on if you opt for the copy of the copy. ;)
Thanks for the putting together the pros and cons. I ended up getting the edge pro because of cost and availability. I do like the Edge Pro and have no regrets. It's a great system. I do agree that it takes concentration (e.g. flipping the knife and holding the angle). I'm not so sure the Wicked Edge takes less concentration though. One slip and a vertically mounted razor sharp blade could easily slice off a finger or two! I agree with your point about repeatability with the Wicked Edge.
i have had my WE now about 1 week. - $275.00 model friday my plan is to send it back for store credit, since i got it from chefs knives and upgrade a few stones for my Edge Pro. i will say it does a great job and i find it easy to use and i agree with most of you pro list, but i find it harder to set the angle than i do with the EP. and precise - the jury is out on that and i will never find out for myself. my reason for sending it back is: I FIND IT VERY DANGEROUS to use.
My Shapton Glass stones for my EP are wonderful. They cut very fast.. only require about 2 minutes per grit to do their job.They are splash and go... no soaking of the stones. It takes me about 20 minutes from start to finish for a 8000 grit polished edge with my set up and they look great. I've noticed a very slight angle variance from one side to the other.. .but I'm sure that's my technique or something.
The repeatability thing on the WE is nice. I used a Lansky for the longest time (and still do for a couple of knives) and I can't even tell you how many things I tried to achieve the same effect. One concern I would have with the WE is one the biggest cons with the Lansky as well; knives with edge-to-spine grinds. If there is no flat to clamp them on (rare, mind you) then the system is rendered unusable.
Fantastic video. I've been trying to decide between the two and the fact that the Wicked Edge had a solid mount for the knife had me leaning in that direction. It's nice to take the human error out of the system. I also hate the fact that Edge Pro won't put degrees on their riser. Colored dots just seem so Mickey Mouse. Now if the Wicked Edge just came with a nice case for the asking price. Oh well, you confirmed every thing I thought. It's nice to hear it from somebody who's used both though!
I'm trying to understand how you have Build Quality under the Wicked Edge side when you yourself had so many problems with the Wicked Edge when you got it. You had like 4 or 5 updates with all the problems you were having... going back and forth with the maker trying to find a "fix" for the system. Then you had to resort to homemade mods in one of your videos to help some of the issues. I'm just trying to understand how this has an edge over the Edge Pro in Build Quality. Is it just the plastic?
I have wondered the same thing - how are the prices between the original and knock-off so incredibly far apart? It's bizarre. Usually knock-offs save you a few dollars and you take a chance on quality and of course warranty but they rarely are so far apart in price.
I haven't used the Wicked Edge, but I've used the clamp system from the Lanskey system and the clamp was hard to use with truly full flat grind knives.
I've wondered as to why the Edge Pro doesn't offer some type of an add-on to address the one problem I have with it, and you've addressed here: The lack of a clamping system. If there's a chance for human error, it'll happen. Now, I'm pretty good at zeroing in on something and doing things right but, when I have to flip things to use my left hand? It's just no match for using my right hand. For the life of me I don't know why Edge Pro doesn't address this. Seems it would be easy enough to "engineer". Hence, I've basically stalled any decision on these 2 systems. Come on Edge Pro, it can't be that hard.
+bebop redux Go with the KME sharpening system. Tons of videos about it here on youtube. Much cheaper than the Wicked Edge, and every bit as good, not to mention it looks much easier to use & maintain. I was extremely impressed with the design, and the high quality construction. And I have YET to hear anyone regret buying it vs either of the other two systems. It's so ingenious, you can actually use it without its base, and some guys actually prefer using it that way. Check it out.
+bebop redux that or you do what i did - theres a hole on the under side of where you place the knife, a perfect fit for a 30x20mm neodymium magnet which holds the knife, using a few coins that get magnetized after putting on top and clamping those under the moving platform (which can clamp the knives too when you loosen it enough but you cant turn it around afterwards) the coins attract the knife and hold it, you can also angle it this ways by having one coin in the center and two on sides (so its the same on both sides) the only thing you have to watch is that you always place the center on the same place (tape a tiny pice of the knife or marker it) you can also sharpen scissors this way which beats the wicked edge! I am aiming to beat the results of wicked edge for under 30 dollars, ill upload a video with all my experiences once its done
+bebop redux Clamping systems add in their own variation. One side is off on the Wicked Edge because the one jaw is fixed so the side that tightens tries to centre and one side is off by a degree and its not always possible to clamp on all blade grinds. It's one reason the Edge Pro can do very small and very large blades no problem. So with every system there are pros and cons.
I've been using the edge pro fors years now and i just bought the wicked edge.so my question is what are the stones i need to get the mirror finish I'm used too with my edge pro.i switched for all the same reasons you stated on your review .
Is it true you have to get the Pro Pack II to get the upgraded hardware etc.? If so its Almost $700 wtf they should include their upgrades (ball joints & guide rods etc.) with all the kits
I have the apex edge pro and the same problems I am having myself on not getting positive results every time. So i ordered the wicked edge to see how much better it is. The funniest thing is I scored the wicked edge cheaper then the apex edge. The apex's main problem with it is and should have some type of clamping system and it would give it everything you need to get accurate results every time. Not saying it don't get knives sharp but not perfect.
You say that the Edge Pro is cheaper. But if you have to keep buying stones for the edge pro then in the long run it would come to the same price as wicked edge if not more.
First off thank you very much for taking the time to review both systems. One question, is the V-sharp by Warthog even in the same league with these two systems?
thanks your video. for me its a hobby so like the versatility and the polish . otherwise the wicked edge for me wins out however i have seen video on the hapstone pro knife sharpener and would value you opinion
Weird, I feel that the edge pro should always get a screaming sharp... This said I never use the basic stones (they work, but I like my chosera 1k and the sharpton GS stones too much), an angle cube also does wonders.
P.S. not flaming... just trying to understand. I thought this vid was good. Also, from the laymen's point of view do you think some of this stuff matters? You are definitely coming from the point of view of a professional knife sharpener trying to sharpen many blades not a home user that would take time on each of his own blades, right? The Edge Pro just sounds like it could a lil more time to set up properly. The price could be justified on the Wicked Edge if this was your profession I suppose.
Very interesting comparison for sure. If i had bought the Wicked Edge i could not have sharpen 95% of my knives.Now, that is a huge advantage to such a "degree" that any other pros by Wicked Edge are irrelevant. Plus, clamping could actually be a safety issue when your fingers run into it by mistake. No clamp was designed to avoid that. Like you said no system is perfect but man the versatility of Edge Pro alone surpasses all else on the Wicked Edge. To each his own ,it's a tool after all, and he who dies with most tools wins. You win because you have both...lol
+Amir DePaz Had to give you a thumbs down, please describe the size/type of blades you have that won't work. Otherwise how can we evaluate your statement and know if any of the issues you describe would be a factor for the rest of us. I'm serious, not trolling, if there's that big of a hole in the system I'd like to know....don't want to buy another system I can't be effective with.
+John Cashell First,please note that this is a 2012 publishing and not 2015.I believe that the newer system is upgraded but i know nothing about it.So please check the newer version. I use all kinds of knives,pocket knives and kitchen knives made out of different steels. My shortest knife is 2" to my longest one 26 cm (10.23 Inches). Versatility of the Edge Pro is key for me. Re listen to it.Long knives are a problem with the Wicked Edge and the man said it himself.He does not specify the length limitation.I also looked at the official sight of Wicked Edge and could not find out the length limitation.You should find out from them by calling 877-327-0107. Hope this helps answering your question.
8:30 Sounds like you were using WAY to much water. If you watch the EdgePro videos they say you only need a very small amount of water. I’ve also never seen a “slurry” while they sharpen a knife on the edge pro.
Brett Silva lol I’ve been using the edge pro for over a decade now. Dry, wet, soaked, misted, etc. using water sucks period. And if you’ve never seen a slurry then you’ve never used any other stones like chosera. They are literally meant to form a slurry. Regardless the 100 grit stone does indeed form a slurry, Ben himself even mentions this.
jdavis882 so you clearly have a problem with comprehension. I didn’t say that I have never seen a slurry. It doesn’t matter how long you have been doing something, if you have been doing something wrong for 10 years, you are still doing it wrong. “The 100 grit stone * forms a slurry.” Do you have a point? Are you now saying that only the 100 grit stone causes a slurry? For personal use, you shouldn’t have to use a 100 grit stone very often. So if that is your point then, this issue matters even less. As I said you are using way to much water and by your reply clearing do not know what you are talking about. Feel free to show me a source from edgepro where they have a slurry while sharpening a knife.
Brett Silva you do you bro. I’m not about to hunt down 10 year old forum posts from the maker of the edge pro talking about forming a slurry just to appease you, but rest assured they exist and you could probably find them with a little google searching. Or, just call Ben up directly and talk to him. He’ll tell you. Not sure what your bone to pick is, but I really don’t care. If you feel like I made some mistakes in this video then feel free to make your own video to correct those mistakes. You’re complaining about a 5 year old video that I don’t even remember making so I’m not really interested in talking about it. You’re doing it “right” so just do you baby boy.
Well I would hope that people who want the EP would buy the real deal, and not an unlicensed copy. Ben Dale (a super nice guy) invented the machine, the sale is rightfully his.
jdavis882 Which sharpened blade lasts longer? Guys are telling me the WE lasts longer, I don't comprehend that in my non sharpening brain? Any advice will help I am lookin at a we130
You can get a chinese edge pro copy on ebay for $40 shipping included. Does the job just as fine and wont cost you an arm and a leg. Just search "angle sharpener".
I will admit I am a bit afraid of the edge pro I just ordered. I am worried it is going to piss me off! oh well, I will never afford the wicked edge, barely able to afford the edge pro basic package. Of course the wicked edge is better all around, its like double the price or more! ya get what ya pay for!
I am so inconsistent with my edge pro I'm going to sell it., I also have a problem with it eating into the choil area of my blades especially on the left hand side. Screw this I'm getting a wicked edge now
We have differing acceptability of sharp then, Ofcourse having some tooth is usually a good thing. But only on the micro level, nothing should be visible without a magnifier. I still would seriously suggest checking out the Chef knives to go forums though, they are a very helpful bunch that can get you going. Personally I prefer the edge pro for it's versatility, simple design and high quality stone options. But then again I keep mine mainly for setting absolute bevels these days, I can't say I get a "better" edge freehanding... But it is more enjoyable and certain techniques take less effort. Two awesome additions to the edge pro were the AngleCube (amazing device) and a salvaged hard drive magnet. (not necessary but great for longer knives, my 13" bowie would have been a nightmare otherwise, although I will say now that a knife that big and of that style is NOT ideal for sharpening on the jig and requires a lot of suppuration to get right)
Do you really think if you you gave two knives to a person one sharpened with the Wicked Edge, and the Edge Pro and told them to cut a couple pieces of 1 inch of rope, baton a piece of wood, cut a couple cardboard box's that they would say oh yah this knife was sharpened with this sharpener or the other. That's the day to day reality of it
+BennyCFD If you were sharpening knives for clients as a business, and your business was keeping you covered up in knives to be sharpened, you can bet the farm the Wicked Edge would be the way to go, vs the Edge Pro. However, I truly believe the KME is NOW the best of them all, especially when ya consider the price PLUS the repeatable results. I believe it's also the easiest to use. With the KME now on the market, I just can't justify the high cost of the Wicked Edge. I have yet to hear one person regret buying the KME. And it WILL sharpen the tiniest all the way up to the biggest blades. Tons of videos about the KME, some are better than others of course. Check it out.
+BennyCFD It seems you're missing the point entirely. Don't you mean giving a person the WE & EP, sharpen the same knife on both and compare the results? Even then they'd also need to include time, difficulty, etc. Of course the test would need to be repeated with all the knives the sharpen. Personally I have some medical issues that drive me nuts, repeatability isn't something my shaking body is capable of. Currently I have the small belt sander....forget the name, but I can't get consistent results and it takes hours on one blade. Some softer steels go quick, but never a SS. It's because of the guide system and needing to switch from left to right hand. Why do I say this, to let you know I don't have either system reviewed, but certain things cause me to fail are also issues in this comparison.
People with no arms learn to write and paint with their feet, so noting is impossible if you try, Same thing with sharpening knives. I couldn't sharpen a knife by hand so save my life. I had some old steak knives and practiced using up at least one knife practicing. Now, I can sharpen my knives to where i can literally shave my face. Am I special in anyway, no. I just wanted to do it. As for my initial point I stick by my original premise. Given these various sharpening systems, It would be almost impossible to tell the difference in sharpness if you didn't know which system was used.
+BennyCFD by looking at the blade I could tell. The wicked edge leaves a mirror polish but it isn't as crisp as the edge pros. Also, the systems pros and cons are about the process to get you to that edge. Two people got to the top of a mountain one in a car the other rode his bicycle.
Supply and demand. If you know there's a lot of knife geeks out there willing to pay an extra 50, 100 or even 500 for brand recognition then why wouldn't you? Some might say "because you're honest" but honesty rarely factors in when guys are trying to make a profit. Imo it's pretty ironic when guys come out in force to protect his business when he's somewhat screwing them over with a design he merely repackaged and sold at a silly price. But that's me.
it's expensive because the idea around the wicked edge has value. He's built a system with an ingenious idea that provides scary results. Is it worth the asking price, imo, no. I like to hand sharpen my knives, I find it enjoyable. If one knows how to sharpen properly, that person can get the knife just as sharp as the wicked edge results. Nonetheless, the wicked edge is a great product, but not worth the asking price.
+Ken Lee I'm sorry, but there is no way to justify the cost of that Wicked Edge. NO WAY. And I'm not a cheap guy, I demand high quality made in USA. The KME sharpening system is built in the USA, made to the same high quality, easier to use, every bit as accurate & consistent, sharpens any blade from the tiniest pen blades on traditional folders, all the way up to monster sized kitchen & survival knives......whereas the Wicked Edge can't........and costs HALF the price. To each his own I guess, but I have checked out both systems thoroughly, and it just makes no sense to me why anyone would throw that much money out, when they can get a system that's every bit as good, PLUS the KME is more versatile. If I didn't know better, I'd say that the makers of the Wicked Edge felt at the time, that NO ONE would be able to invent a better system, yet be able to deliver it at a better price, while still being made in the USA. Just look into how many big names in the cutlery industry are praising the KME.......at ANY price.
Dam the stones are like $200 a piece a 175 they're too damn expensive or just an average person to get same way with the system you'd have to be a millionaire to own one of them
You really should offer cons. In concealing these you only halfway advise the reader, leaving it to the buyer buying blindly and force the buyer to experience these cons without foreknowledge from an experienced evaluator.
or you could just completely ignore these two systems and get a kme clamped system which is like a lansky with edge pro results for less money the either one of these
@Nogorn rest assured, you will get what you payed for. Even if the system works, the stones you get will be less than shit. I'd suggest at the very least buying the real stones from the REAL company.
Im broke but i wont buy a knockoff. Ill just buy all the parts he used at my home depot and build one myself. any parts that are custom ill just make myself.
Thanks for the great comparison, I m getting ready to buy one or the other this weekend and you just made up my mind for me. Thanks again.
Glad I could help in some small way!
I want to thank you for this and all the other videos you have shared on sharpening systems. They have been very helpful and I have learned a great deal from them. Please continue sharing your experiences in this area. Thanks!
Thanks so much for your in depth review between these two. It was just what I need to help me make a decision which is hard for me.
Wow, I've been waiting on this vid from you for awhile now...great talking points for each system. I just got into hand sharpening a couple of months ago and you have been my go to guy so far in terms of information which is why (back then) I chose to purchase the EdgePro with Chosera stones. Looks like I now have to possible reconsider my interest in the Wicked Edge instead. I'm still very 'green' with sharpening tho, so I'll take it slow. Thank you for the great vids!
Thanks for the review. I think you covered most of the points. However, you did not mention three things:
(a) The time it takes to achieve the same result. If you were sharpening a couple of identical 8" kitchen knives to a similar sharpness, do you think there would be a significant difference in the time required?
(b) Suitability for different blade profiles. A kitchen knife is one thing, but the fancier folders are another.
Also, (c) you made no comment on sharpening blades with serrations.
Good vid. So now. What would you say as far as time goes do you think the wicked edge or a set of DMT's with some good quality Japanese waterstones would be faster and out perform the wicked edge? Being in the right hands of course. Also I've recently visited the wickededge site and I've seen a lot of higher grit stones. What would be an all inclusive package? Is there anything that you would recommend buying in addition to the wicked edge? A strop? A sharpmaker for touch ups? Etc.
The fancy model of the Wicked Edge is now approaching $1000. Thanks but I will take the very reasonably priced Edge Pro at $225 with a full set of stones.
For $1000 you can get an Edge Pro Professional with a set of Chosera's or Shapton Pro stones and get better results than the wicked edge (with a bit of practice). I own both, and the tsprof, but I keep going back to the Edge Pro because of the minimal setup time. Not to mention the Edge Pro and tsprof have a crazy amount of stone options.
That price is.....astounding.
@Therka Marka with the magnet on the pro and the slide guide it holds tight like the clamp, but is significantly more versatile with more stone options. Not to mention, if you move on to strops with diamond compound, both systems will yield identical results assuming you use the same abrasives. If you have consistency problems with the edge pro professional, it's your own limitations, not the machine's.
I was looking at both systems but the expense for someone who only sharpens a few knives was rediculous. Although I can free hand reasonably well I really wanted something with a clamp. I found a sharpener called a KME and bought it with the diamond kit. After getting some feedback from the manufacturer about how to set the knife in the clamp evenly, I am amazed at how well this works. For those of us who don't do a lot of knives but want quality I'd love to hear your impression of it.
Fantastic review. Very informative. It shows that you put a lot of thought into your review. I appreciate it.
Assume you're talking the Edge Pro Apex as the Professional is all metal. Both are good machines. I don't trust the precise Angle Adjustment though because the Wicked Edge clamping system tries to centre the blade so one side is usually off by 1 degree, so you need to set it up with an angle cube to have it precise. Which is the same way I set up the Edge Pro, then record it and I use the drill collar to compensate for stone variation and it's pretty repeatable. I do like the top of the line Wicked Edge and will probably pick one up. Good comparison. Just got a set of Shapton glass stones for the Edge Pro they work great. The other thing is you still can't do serrations in the Wicked Edge that I know of, they said they were coming out with something.
I am glad you did this video.I was curious which you preferred.I almost ordered the EdgePro.Thank you.
How is the portability of the WIcked Edge? Which uses less steel in each sharpening?Also Ben Dale has been awesome help with my EP in terms of advice and parts, how is Clay Allison with this stuff ( sorry if the name is spelled wrong?)
Awesome JD. I am done sending my knives out and bought a WE based upon this vid, thanks.
So is wicked edge hair whittling out the box? And if so which package did you purchase? Know they have em ranging from a couple hundred up to over 1k dollars. Got my eye on the 400-500 $ system, think it's the pro 1, and hoping that will be a vast improvement on my cheap $20 stones and will get my knives hair whittling sharp. I figure taking most of the possibility for human error out of the equation will already help quite a bit.
Hey buddy. He is mia. Has been for some time now. He has videos on using the wicked edge. I think he says what he got. He has the basic to today's standard. With extra stones
+Stoney Beek Thanks for the info. Ended up watching his other videos and figured it out. Ended up getting the pro pack 1 and extra ceramic stones. Feel guilty paying so much not being in the industry and just buying this for personal use but maybe I can sharpen all my friends knives and charge them to help justify this buy hahaha.
Thank you very much for making this video. Ive recently been thinking about which system to upgrade to and these two are the only systems Im really interested in, but I didnt know which to buy. Your video has really made the differences between these systems very clear and made my decision very clear. I do still have one concern. How is the WE at sharpening recurved blades? Most of my knives are recurves and it is very important to me that my next sharpening system can sharpen them without issue
I recently bought a Edge Pro "Full Monty" kit from Mark Richmond. It came with a digital angle finder to simplify angle setting and it works great ! Also they sent a really strong magnet to tape or glue under the machine base which really helps with keeping the blade stable and holding it on the base. I got Shapton glass stones, which are all the same thickness and they are really thick. You may want to check into the updates J... thanks for the helpful video. I am enjoying my Edge Pro a lot!
Thanks to you, I think I'm going to pick up a Wicked Edge. Honestly, I didn't really know about either product until this week. My Spyderco Sharpmaker worked ok but due to my flawed technique, I messed up a couple edges on my knives so I was looking for something different.
Well done - a great comparison to two great machines
Clamping systems are inherently inaccurate depending on the geometry of the knife. In some cases you will have to use painter's tape to overcome a knife that has a design that isn't dead flat. Most folders today aren't dead flat. Knives on small folders can't even be sharpened on the WE. I still think that freehand sharpening that will take practice is better than either the EdgePro or the WE. You must make a commitment to learn how to freehand sharpen and then practice. Everyone wants a shortcut, but with shortcuts you have compromises.
If I was absolutely against freehand sharpening, I'd just buy a 1"x30" Harbor Freight belt grinder for $50. and buy $25.00 worth of belts. , but that will also take practice. I've seen people on youtube over convexing their blade's edge on overly slack belts and then complain that it won't cut through paper. If you end up with a 40-degree angle on each side from over convexing on a slack belt, of course it won't cut paper, because you've created an edge that is similar to an axe or a wood splitting maul.
Danvil, you really cannot sharpen some folding pocket knives with the Wicked Edge?!!
you mentioned in a previous vid about the wicked edge producing a sharp tip. i think in the microscope vid. is it just easier to not destroy a tip with the wicked edge. anyway any thoughts on tip sharpening between the systems?
I also have another ?. What makes the stones stay flat on the wicked edge? I was watching a vid of clay and he was doing a traditional Japanese knife with a single side edge and used the two exact stones to flatten each other. I these were only for the Japanese water stones that the Wicked edge offers, what makes the other stones not able to go unflat? How can they do that? What is it that they use that makes the stones stay flat? Also how long would these stones last if purchased and used
Oh, one other point. The Edge-Pro comes in two different models: the Apex and the (more expensive and easier-to-use) Professional. I assume you were using the Apex rather than the Professional in your comparison - correct?
Thanks for the comparison. You have helped me a great deal with this comparison!
Thank you for the video. It helped me make up my mind on which system to buy
Great overview man! love your videos! informative and entertaining!
Great comparison, thanks! I finally made the switch myself, in part due to this review. Everything you said is right on. The edge pro was great on big flat kitchen knives but I always had issues with pocket knives and thicker grinds. The price is the only disadvantage at 4x more for the WE, but many times the WE will put a better edge on with 600 grit than running the stone gamet with the edge pro. Given this, the results of the edge pro are near the same price as the WE50 Go!
Honestly both systems produce excellent tips, and both systems can easily round the tips if not careful.
I will give the "needle sharp tip" award to the WE however. Due to the fixed angle it can produce some of the pointiest and sharpest tips that I've ever seen. :)
It sticks to the table and keeps an angle just as same as the Edge Pro. Don't have as many stones but I'm pretty sure you could fit a Edge Pro stone in it. You can also get a base plate that you can glue some leather to for fixed stropping (great for precise micro bevels). Only thing that wont work as well (for both systems) is heavy reprofiling.
Shops have been using these types of jiggs for ages so there's no special formula that you're missing out on if you opt for the copy of the copy. ;)
Thanks for the putting together the pros and cons. I ended up getting the edge pro because of cost and availability. I do like the Edge Pro and have no regrets. It's a great system. I do agree that it takes concentration (e.g. flipping the knife and holding the angle). I'm not so sure the Wicked Edge takes less concentration though. One slip and a vertically mounted razor sharp blade could easily slice off a finger or two! I agree with your point about repeatability with the Wicked Edge.
i have had my WE now about 1 week. - $275.00 model
friday my plan is to send it back for store credit, since i got it from chefs knives and upgrade a few stones for my Edge Pro.
i will say it does a great job and i find it easy to use and i agree with most of you pro list, but i find it harder to set the angle than i do with the EP. and precise - the jury is out on that and i will never find out for myself.
my reason for sending it back is: I FIND IT VERY DANGEROUS to use.
Excellent comparison. A great help in choosing.
Many greetings from Croatian.
Davor
My Shapton Glass stones for my EP are wonderful. They cut very fast.. only require about 2 minutes per grit to do their job.They are splash and go... no soaking of the stones. It takes me about 20 minutes from start to finish for a 8000 grit polished edge with my set up and they look great. I've noticed a very slight angle variance from one side to the other.. .but I'm sure that's my technique or something.
Can`t wait to get one :) just ordered today.
The repeatability thing on the WE is nice. I used a Lansky for the longest time (and still do for a couple of knives) and I can't even tell you how many things I tried to achieve the same effect.
One concern I would have with the WE is one the biggest cons with the Lansky as well; knives with edge-to-spine grinds. If there is no flat to clamp them on (rare, mind you) then the system is rendered unusable.
Thanks so much, this is exactly the in depth breakdown I wanted to see before shelling out the dough.
Do you use the diamond stones with the wicked edge or the water stones? Im looking at investing in one. What stones would you suggest i use?
I have been looking at these 2 systems. Thank you got a very informative video.
When it's time to buy new stones for the edge pro, do you think one should go with chosera or the diamonds?
Fantastic video. I've been trying to decide between the two and the fact that the Wicked Edge had a solid mount for the knife had me leaning in that direction. It's nice to take the human error out of the system. I also hate the fact that Edge Pro won't put degrees on their riser. Colored dots just seem so Mickey Mouse. Now if the Wicked Edge just came with a nice case for the asking price. Oh well, you confirmed every thing I thought. It's nice to hear it from somebody who's used both though!
I'm trying to understand how you have Build Quality under the Wicked Edge side when you yourself had so many problems with the Wicked Edge when you got it. You had like 4 or 5 updates with all the problems you were having... going back and forth with the maker trying to find a "fix" for the system. Then you had to resort to homemade mods in one of your videos to help some of the issues. I'm just trying to understand how this has an edge over the Edge Pro in Build Quality. Is it just the plastic?
Mr. J Davis are you still sharpening knives w. the WE to a mirror edge? If, so I'd like to send you 1 or 2 blades, if possible. Thanks.
I have wondered the same thing - how are the prices between the original and knock-off so incredibly far apart? It's bizarre. Usually knock-offs save you a few dollars and you take a chance on quality and of course warranty but they rarely are so far apart in price.
Have you resolved the problem with the micro-scratching on the heel of the blade with the wicked edge? lol I'm a perfectionist, so that annoys me.
Jay would you use the Spyderco sharp maker just to touch up an edge?
I haven't used the Wicked Edge, but I've used the clamp system from the Lanskey system and the clamp was hard to use with truly full flat grind knives.
I've wondered as to why the Edge Pro doesn't offer some type of an add-on to address the one problem I have with it, and you've addressed here:
The lack of a clamping system.
If there's a chance for human error, it'll happen. Now, I'm pretty good at zeroing in on something and doing things right but, when I have to flip things to use my left hand? It's just no match for using my right hand. For the life of me I don't know why Edge Pro doesn't address this. Seems it would be easy enough to "engineer". Hence, I've basically stalled any decision on these 2 systems. Come on Edge Pro, it can't be that hard.
+bebop redux Go with the KME sharpening system. Tons of videos about it here on youtube. Much cheaper than the Wicked Edge, and every bit as good, not to mention it looks much easier to use & maintain. I was extremely impressed with the design, and the high quality construction. And I have YET to hear anyone regret buying it vs either of the other two systems. It's so ingenious, you can actually use it without its base, and some guys actually prefer using it that way. Check it out.
+bebop redux that or you do what i did - theres a hole on the under side of where you place the knife, a perfect fit for a 30x20mm neodymium magnet which holds the knife, using a few coins that get magnetized after putting on top and clamping those under the moving platform (which can clamp the knives too when you loosen it enough but you cant turn it around afterwards) the coins attract the knife and hold it, you can also angle it this ways by having one coin in the center and two on sides (so its the same on both sides) the only thing you have to watch is that you always place the center on the same place (tape a tiny pice of the knife or marker it) you can also sharpen scissors this way which beats the wicked edge! I am aiming to beat the results of wicked edge for under 30 dollars, ill upload a video with all my experiences once its done
+bebop redux Clamping systems add in their own variation. One side is off on the Wicked Edge because the one jaw is fixed so the side that tightens tries to centre and one side is off by a degree and its not always possible to clamp on all blade grinds. It's one reason the Edge Pro can do very small and very large blades no problem. So with every system there are pros and cons.
bebop redux I can't agree more with you
The Russians have made one. Mr Wranglerstar thinks it's brilliant.
tsprof.com/
I've been using the edge pro fors years now and i just bought the wicked edge.so my question is what are the stones i need to get the mirror finish I'm used too with my edge pro.i switched for all the same reasons you stated on your review .
Thanks for the info. I'm new to all of this. Valuable info.
So today is this still your opinion regarding both systems?
ty6896 ditto?
Not worth mentioning since it will vary so wildly from person to person, much like time.
Is it true you have to get the Pro Pack II to get the upgraded hardware etc.? If so its Almost $700 wtf they should include their upgrades (ball joints & guide rods etc.) with all the kits
Gary, I agree with what you say about the WSKO sharpener but it can only go down to 15 degree.
what did you end up with?
I have the apex edge pro and the same problems I am having myself on not getting positive results every time. So i ordered the wicked edge to see how much better it is. The funniest thing is I scored the wicked edge cheaper then the apex edge. The apex's main problem with it is and should have some type of clamping system and it would give it everything you need to get accurate results every time. Not saying it don't get knives sharp but not perfect.
truckin3030 Do you get better results with the wicked edge, now that you have tried both systems?
great comparison.... lots of info...really enjoyed it
What about ease of use?
Great video and talking points, very helpful thanks!
You say that the Edge Pro is cheaper. But if you have to keep buying stones for the edge pro then in the long run it would come to the same price as wicked edge if not more.
First off thank you very much for taking the time to review both systems. One question, is the V-sharp by Warthog even in the same league with these two systems?
how come the WE stones don't vary in thickness?
how well does it work?
thanks your video. for me its a hobby so like the versatility and the polish . otherwise the wicked edge for me wins out however i have seen video on the hapstone pro knife sharpener and would value you opinion
how long will the stones last on the we vs the ep.
Weird, I feel that the edge pro should always get a screaming sharp... This said I never use the basic stones (they work, but I like my chosera 1k and the sharpton GS stones too much), an angle cube also does wonders.
P.S. not flaming... just trying to understand. I thought this vid was good. Also, from the laymen's point of view do you think some of this stuff matters? You are definitely coming from the point of view of a professional knife sharpener trying to sharpen many blades not a home user that would take time on each of his own blades, right? The Edge Pro just sounds like it could a lil more time to set up properly. The price could be justified on the Wicked Edge if this was your profession I suppose.
When it comes to stones like the Edge Pro uses (water stones), I prefer just the large free hand stones.
Very interesting comparison for sure.
If i had bought the Wicked Edge i could not have sharpen 95% of my knives.Now, that is a huge advantage to such a "degree" that any other pros by Wicked Edge are irrelevant.
Plus, clamping could actually be a safety issue when your fingers run into it by mistake. No clamp was designed to avoid that.
Like you said no system is perfect but man the versatility of Edge Pro alone surpasses all else on the Wicked Edge.
To each his own ,it's a tool after all, and he who dies with most tools wins. You win because you have both...lol
+Amir DePaz Had to give you a thumbs down, please describe the size/type of blades you have that won't work. Otherwise how can we evaluate your statement and know if any of the issues you describe would be a factor for the rest of us. I'm serious, not trolling, if there's that big of a hole in the system I'd like to know....don't want to buy another system I can't be effective with.
+John Cashell
First,please note that this is a 2012 publishing and not 2015.I believe that the newer system is upgraded but i know nothing about it.So please check the newer version.
I use all kinds of knives,pocket knives and kitchen knives made out of different steels. My shortest knife is 2" to my longest one 26 cm (10.23 Inches).
Versatility of the Edge Pro is key for me. Re listen to it.Long knives are a problem with the Wicked Edge and the man said it himself.He does not specify the length limitation.I also looked at the official sight of Wicked Edge and could not find out the length limitation.You should find out from them by calling 877-327-0107.
Hope this helps answering your question.
You're very welcome.
8:30
Sounds like you were using WAY to much water. If you watch the EdgePro videos they say you only need a very small amount of water. I’ve also never seen a “slurry” while they sharpen a knife on the edge pro.
Brett Silva lol I’ve been using the edge pro for over a decade now. Dry, wet, soaked, misted, etc. using water sucks period. And if you’ve never seen a slurry then you’ve never used any other stones like chosera. They are literally meant to form a slurry. Regardless the 100 grit stone does indeed form a slurry, Ben himself even mentions this.
jdavis882 so you clearly have a problem with comprehension. I didn’t say that I have never seen a slurry.
It doesn’t matter how long you have been doing something, if you have been doing something wrong for 10 years, you are still doing it wrong.
“The 100 grit stone * forms a slurry.” Do you have a point? Are you now saying that only the 100 grit stone causes a slurry? For personal use, you shouldn’t have to use a 100 grit stone very often. So if that is your point then, this issue matters even less.
As I said you are using way to much water and by your reply clearing do not know what you are talking about. Feel free to show me a source from edgepro where they have a slurry while sharpening a knife.
Brett Silva you do you bro. I’m not about to hunt down 10 year old forum posts from the maker of the edge pro talking about forming a slurry just to appease you, but rest assured they exist and you could probably find them with a little google searching. Or, just call Ben up directly and talk to him. He’ll tell you. Not sure what your bone to pick is, but I really don’t care. If you feel like I made some mistakes in this video then feel free to make your own video to correct those mistakes. You’re complaining about a 5 year old video that I don’t even remember making so I’m not really interested in talking about it. You’re doing it “right” so just do you baby boy.
if I wanted to send a knife to sharpen how do I get in touch and what's the turn around time
Punctuation, son. And it's on their website.
Well I would hope that people who want the EP would buy the real deal, and not an unlicensed copy. Ben Dale (a super nice guy) invented the machine, the sale is rightfully his.
Great, maybe Ill order one up. Thanks.
Great review
jdavis882 Which sharpened blade lasts longer? Guys are telling me the WE lasts longer, I don't comprehend that in my non sharpening brain?
Any advice will help I am lookin at a we130
The problems I was having with the WE were caused by me......not the system.
Edge pro & Wicked edge can do convex edge? Yes or No? Hand free with sand paper cheapest and practical when you go out door always win..
Great video, thanks.
You can get a chinese edge pro copy on ebay for $40 shipping included. Does the job just as fine and wont cost you an arm and a leg. Just search "angle sharpener".
another great vid
Anyone else think this was a Ibanez tremolo review?
I will admit I am a bit afraid of the edge pro I just ordered. I am worried it is going to piss me off! oh well, I will never afford the wicked edge, barely able to afford the edge pro basic package. Of course the wicked edge is better all around, its like double the price or more! ya get what ya pay for!
I am so inconsistent with my edge pro I'm going to sell it., I also have a problem with it eating into the choil area of my blades especially on the left hand side. Screw this I'm getting a wicked edge now
Have you sold your EP yet? If not e-mail me. rossantonsen@yahoo.com
This baffles me, I would say go to chefknivestogo and learn how to use it...
I can get my knives sharp with it but can't always get all the scratches out from the previous stone.
We have differing acceptability of sharp then, Ofcourse having some tooth is usually a good thing. But only on the micro level, nothing should be visible without a magnifier.
I still would seriously suggest checking out the Chef knives to go forums though, they are a very helpful bunch that can get you going.
Personally I prefer the edge pro for it's versatility, simple design and high quality stone options.
But then again I keep mine mainly for setting absolute bevels these days, I can't say I get a "better" edge freehanding... But it is more enjoyable and certain techniques take less effort.
Two awesome additions to the edge pro were the AngleCube (amazing device) and a salvaged hard drive magnet. (not necessary but great for longer knives, my 13" bowie would have been a nightmare otherwise, although I will say now that a knife that big and of that style is NOT ideal for sharpening on the jig and requires a lot of suppuration to get right)
I await the Chinese wicked edge. :)
Do you really think if you you gave two knives to a person one sharpened with the Wicked Edge, and the Edge Pro and told them to cut a couple pieces of 1 inch of rope, baton a piece of wood, cut a couple cardboard box's that they would say oh yah this knife was sharpened with this sharpener or the other. That's the day to day reality of it
+BennyCFD If you were sharpening knives for clients as a business, and your business was keeping you covered up in knives to be sharpened, you can bet the farm the Wicked Edge would be the way to go, vs the Edge Pro. However, I truly believe the KME is NOW the best of them all, especially when ya consider the price PLUS the repeatable results. I believe it's also the easiest to use. With the KME now on the market, I just can't justify the high cost of the Wicked Edge. I have yet to hear one person regret buying the KME. And it WILL sharpen the tiniest all the way up to the biggest blades. Tons of videos about the KME, some are better than others of course. Check it out.
Just saying a blind test of the same knife without knowing which sharpening system was used you couldn't tell the difference.
+BennyCFD It seems you're missing the point entirely. Don't you mean giving a person the WE & EP, sharpen the same knife on both and compare the results? Even then they'd also need to include time, difficulty, etc. Of course the test would need to be repeated with all the knives the sharpen.
Personally I have some medical issues that drive me nuts, repeatability isn't something my shaking body is capable of. Currently I have the small belt sander....forget the name, but I can't get consistent results and it takes hours on one blade. Some softer steels go quick, but never a SS. It's because of the guide system and needing to switch from left to right hand.
Why do I say this, to let you know I don't have either system reviewed, but certain things cause me to fail are also issues in this comparison.
People with no arms learn to write and paint with their feet, so noting is impossible if you try, Same thing with sharpening knives. I couldn't sharpen a knife by hand so save my life. I had some old steak knives and practiced using up at least one knife practicing. Now, I can sharpen my knives to where i can literally shave my face. Am I special in anyway, no. I just wanted to do it. As for my initial point I stick by my original premise. Given these various sharpening systems, It would be almost impossible to tell the difference in sharpness if you didn't know which system was used.
+BennyCFD by looking at the blade I could tell. The wicked edge leaves a mirror polish but it isn't as crisp as the edge pros. Also, the systems pros and cons are about the process to get you to that edge. Two people got to the top of a mountain one in a car the other rode his bicycle.
Supply and demand. If you know there's a lot of knife geeks out there willing to pay an extra 50, 100 or even 500 for brand recognition then why wouldn't you? Some might say "because you're honest" but honesty rarely factors in when guys are trying to make a profit.
Imo it's pretty ironic when guys come out in force to protect his business when he's somewhat screwing them over with a design he merely repackaged and sold at a silly price. But that's me.
I've got the edge pro and I'm not a huge fan wish I'd went with the we
mouth waters every time i see the 0560.
I have an EP and a KME the KME is the best by far.
In which way?
Wicked Edge, just sounds better too ;-)
Yep, it was my technique. :)
it's expensive because the idea around the wicked edge has value. He's built a system with an ingenious idea that provides scary results. Is it worth the asking price, imo, no. I like to hand sharpen my knives, I find it enjoyable. If one knows how to sharpen properly, that person can get the knife just as sharp as the wicked edge results. Nonetheless, the wicked edge is a great product, but not worth the asking price.
+Ken Lee I'm sorry, but there is no way to justify the cost of that Wicked Edge. NO WAY. And I'm not a cheap guy, I demand high quality made in USA. The KME sharpening system is built in the USA, made to the same high quality, easier to use, every bit as accurate & consistent, sharpens any blade from the tiniest pen blades on traditional folders, all the way up to monster sized kitchen & survival knives......whereas the Wicked Edge can't........and costs HALF the price. To each his own I guess, but I have checked out both systems thoroughly, and it just makes no sense to me why anyone would throw that much money out, when they can get a system that's every bit as good, PLUS the KME is more versatile. If I didn't know better, I'd say that the makers of the Wicked Edge felt at the time, that NO ONE would be able to invent a better system, yet be able to deliver it at a better price, while still being made in the USA. Just look into how many big names in the cutlery industry are praising the KME.......at ANY price.
Dam the stones are like $200 a piece a 175 they're too damn expensive or just an average person to get same way with the system you'd have to be a millionaire to own one of them
You really should offer cons. In concealing these you only halfway advise the reader, leaving it to the buyer buying blindly and force the buyer to experience these cons without foreknowledge from an experienced evaluator.
Anyone checked out Scary sharp from New Zealand
glue some dmt stones onto edge pro plates and u dont have to worry about the stones anymore lol works great for me
or you could just completely ignore these two systems and get a kme clamped system which is like a lansky with edge pro results for less money the either one of these
The kme is still about $200. Not cheap dude bro.
still less expensive then both systems
Don’t go to a square dance and just dance with one gal.
@Nogorn rest assured, you will get what you payed for. Even if the system works, the stones you get will be less than shit. I'd suggest at the very least buying the real stones from the REAL company.
Anyone wanna buy an EP with chosera stones? Light use loo
Im broke but i wont buy a knockoff. Ill just buy all the parts he used at my home depot and build one myself. any parts that are custom ill just make myself.