Smith’s Sharpeners Edge Pro Combo Review

Real Insights into the Smith’s Sharpeners Edge Pro Combo

Every outdoorsman knows the frustration of a dull knife. Whether you’re field dressing game, preparing kindling, or simply trying to slice a tomato at the campsite, a sharp blade is essential. That’s where the Smith’s Sharpeners Edge Pro Combo comes into play, a seemingly simple tool promising to maintain that crucial edge.

I was on the hunt for a compact and versatile sharpening solution that wouldn’t break the bank. My kit knives had grown dull through repeated work outdoors, and my previous sharpening stone was large, clunky and inconvenient for carry. I wanted something that I could easily pack for camping trips and hunting expeditions, or toss in the tool bag in my truck. After much searching, this Smith’s product seemed to be the right fit.

Upon unboxing, the Edge Pro Combo felt surprisingly robust for its size. The black synthetic handle had a good weight and the rubber base kept it secure when placed on my workbench. Initial examination revealed seemingly well-seated carbide and ceramic stones within the pull-through sharpener.

While exploring options, I considered the Lansky BladeMedic and the Work Sharp Guided Field Sharpener. Ultimately, the Smith’s sharpener’s fixed angles and simplicity swayed me, as did the promise of sharpening both standard and serrated blades. Other sharpeners seemed to offer more options but I was looking for a no-nonsense, compact option.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The unit felt more durable than I expected for the price, but the true test would be in its performance. It remained to be seen whether this compact combo could truly deliver a razor-sharp edge in the field.

Real-World Testing: Putting Smith’s Sharpeners Edge Pro Combo to the Test

First Use Experience

My first real test for the Smith’s Sharpeners Edge Pro Combo came during a week-long backcountry camping trip in the Adirondack Mountains. I needed to process wood for fires and prepare food, tasks that quickly dull even the best blades. This provided the perfect setting to evaluate the sharpener’s field performance.

The conditions were varied, ranging from dry and sunny days to damp and misty evenings. I tested it on my trusty Mora knife after processing some seasoned oak. The sharpener held steady on a log, due to its rubberized base.

Using the pull-through sharpener was intuitive, requiring no prior experience. However, the fixed angles concerned me slightly, as I worried about compatibility with different blade grinds. After a few passes through the carbide and ceramic slots, the knife’s edge definitely felt improved, but not quite razor sharp.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Smith’s Sharpeners Edge Pro Combo has become a staple in my kit. I’ve used it on everything from kitchen knives to machetes, and it continues to provide a respectable edge. It also holds up surprisingly well to regular use.

The black synthetic handle still looks new, despite being exposed to dirt, moisture, and the occasional accidental drop. There’s been no noticeable degradation of the carbide or ceramic stones, which is a testament to their quality. Cleaning is simple, generally requiring nothing more than a quick wipe with a damp cloth.

Compared to my old sharpening stone, the Edge Pro Combo is a clear winner in terms of convenience and portability. While it doesn’t quite match the edge quality of a traditional whetstone in the hands of a skilled user, it’s a far more practical option for quick touch-ups in the field. It is faster and easier to use.

Breaking Down the Features of Smith’s Sharpeners Edge Pro Combo

Specifications

• The Smith’s Sharpeners Edge Pro Combo boasts an 8.5″ overall length. This makes it compact enough to easily carry in a pack or toolbox.

• It features a 3.5″ satin finish stainless blade. The included knife is basic, but functional for general utility tasks.

• The handle is made of black synthetic material. This provides a comfortable and secure grip, even in wet conditions.

• The pull-through sharpener utilizes both carbide and ceramic stones. These offer a two-stage sharpening process: carbide for re-profiling a dull edge and ceramic for honing and finishing.

• It also features fixed angles for consistent sharpening. The fixed angles simplify the sharpening process, making it easy for even novice users to achieve consistent results.

Performance & Functionality

The Smith’s Sharpeners Edge Pro Combo performs admirably for its intended purpose. It effectively sharpens both standard and serrated knives, restoring a usable edge in a matter of minutes. It’s also an excellent tool for edge maintenance.

While it doesn’t produce the hair-splitting sharpness of a professional sharpening system, it’s more than adequate for most everyday tasks. A slight downside is the fixed angle which is limiting for certain blade types. It is very easy to use.

The included knife is a decent utility blade. However, I would have preferred a higher-quality steel.

Design & Ergonomics

The Smith’s Sharpeners Edge Pro Combo is designed with simplicity and ease of use in mind. Its compact size and lightweight construction make it highly portable, while the ergonomic grip provides a comfortable and secure hold. The non-slip rubber base is an especially welcome feature.

The black synthetic handle feels durable and well-made. The blade is easy to access.

The fixed angles of the pull-through sharpener eliminate guesswork and ensure consistent sharpening results. This helps to reduce the user learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

The Smith’s Sharpeners Edge Pro Combo is built to withstand the rigors of outdoor use. The durable materials and solid construction ensure that it will last for years with proper care. The blade will need touching up with the sharpener after prolonged usage.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning. The carbide and ceramic stones are designed to resist wear and tear, extending the lifespan of the sharpener.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Smith’s Sharpeners Edge Pro Combo is a self-contained unit, and it comes with no additional accessories beyond the included knife and pull-through sharpener. There are no customization options available for the handle or blade, but the simplicity of the design is part of its appeal. However, most users will likely want to replace the utility blade.

It is not compatible with aftermarket parts or accessories. The focus is clearly on providing a basic and functional sharpening solution in a single package.

Pros and Cons of Smith’s Sharpeners Edge Pro Combo

Who Should Buy Smith’s Sharpeners Edge Pro Combo?

The Smith’s Sharpeners Edge Pro Combo is perfect for:

• Campers and hikers who need a portable and reliable sharpening solution for their knives.
• Hunters and anglers who require a quick and easy way to maintain a sharp edge in the field.
• Homeowners who want a simple and effective way to sharpen their kitchen knives.
• Anyone looking for an affordable and user-friendly sharpening system.

Who should skip this product? Professional chefs or serious knife collectors who demand the absolute sharpest edge and have experience with more advanced sharpening systems may find this product too basic.

Must-have accessories or modifications? Consider replacing the included utility knife with a higher-quality blade. Also, investing in a quality honing steel can further refine the edge after using the pull-through sharpener.

Conclusion on Smith’s Sharpeners Edge Pro Combo

The Smith’s Sharpeners Edge Pro Combo is a surprisingly effective and versatile tool for maintaining a sharp edge on your knives. While it may not be the ultimate sharpening solution for every situation, its ease of use, portability, and durability make it an excellent choice for a wide range of users. It is a great tool at a great price point.

The price is certainly justified. It offers a convenient and reliable sharpening system for a fraction of the cost of more elaborate options.

I would definitely recommend the Smith’s Sharpeners Edge Pro Combo to anyone looking for a simple and affordable way to keep their knives in good working condition. It’s a great addition to any outdoor or home toolkit. Don’t let a dull knife ruin your next adventure, grab the Edge Pro Combo and keep your blades sharp and ready for action!