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In outdoor activities, pocket knives have great importance and we all know that it does not matter how costly your pocket knives are, which brand you are using, whether they are serrated edge or stainless steel edge, whether you are using best hunting knife for dressing purpose or best skinning knife for deer skinning or best camping knife for cutting bushes, the blade of all knives become dull with time. And you have to sharpen your knives after regular intervals.
Some pocket knives require sharpening after a month or so, but some high-quality knives need to be sharpened after 6 months. So at the end, you need a best pocket knife sharpener that will sharpen your pocket knife and give it a razor sharp edge.
A long time ago, sharpening stones was the only way of sharpening your dull knife. They required a little bit of experience because you have to maintain the proper sharpening angle of your knife. If you don’t maintain the required sharpening angle, its blade will damage and your costly knife will be destroyed.
Nowadays, sharpening stones are not the only option you have, there are many high-quality sharpening systems available in the market, so you can sharpen your knife easily. Some electric knife sharpeners require a plugin to work while on the other hand some are battery powered and some sharpeners are manual.
But when you are on hunting, camping or any other outdoor activity, you need a sharpener that you can carry easily, requiring less space in your backpack i.e., it is so small that easily fits in your pocket and is able to give a razor sharp edge to your knives. So this type of knife sharpener is called pocket knife sharpener.
Best Pocket Knife Sharpeners Reviewed
Now, it’s time to get into the best and most popular pocket knife sharpeners that people are using all over the world.
1. Smith’s PP1 Sharpener
Smith’s PP1 sharpening tool is the most popular and lightest pocket knife sharpener due to its price. It is the best knife sharpener in terms of portability.
It is smaller than your pocket so don’t have to worry about making space for it in your backpack.
Its carbide plates are reversible, replaceable and provide quick edge settings for dull knives. On the other hand, ceramic plates give your knife a smooth and polish edge.
It also has preset sharpening angles to give your pocket knife a sharp edge every time and to make sure your knife does not get damaged. As the blades are easily replaceable so you don’t have to worry about buying a new sharpener every time when its surfaces are worn down.
If you are going hunting, camping, etc., this knife sharpener will do the job for you, but it will not give an extremely sharp edge to your knife.
2. AccuSharp 001C Knife Sharpener
The AccuSharp makes it so easy to get that perfect blade in seconds. Nothing to plug into the wall, no moving parts. Just a very straight-forward product that works exactly how you hope it would. There are instructions included for opening the tool and flipping the sharpening blades around.
The beautiful design of this pocket knife sharpener will keep your fingers away from the blade, so you can sharpen your pocket knife without any hesitation.
And the diamond-honed tungsten carbide will make your knife’s edge, razor sharp every time.
This sharpener comes with replaceable and reversible blades, to enhance the life of this sharpening device. So, you don’t have to worry about it.
Despite, the two blades that come with the package will last a long time, if you want to use this knife sharpener on daily a basis, the company also provides extra cutting surfaces for you.
3. Lansky PS-MED01 BladeMedic
The Lansky BladeMedic and Smith’s PP1 Sharpener have lots of features in common. It’s really good for you if you are not good at using sharpening stones. This sharpener gives an incredible performance in three or four strokes.
It really depends on how you intend to use this. If you think it’s a great repair tool when you are hiftaking it king in the wilderness, then it may be a bit heavy.
If, however, you want to keep this in your toolbox for quick blade touch-ups? It’s well built and does a good job. You will be easily able to return a pocket knife to razor sharp with only about 10 minutes worth of work. You will definitely also like the ceramic wedge for cleaning up serrated knives.
The diamond tapered rod has a nice magnetic lock in both directions (closed or open). The tool feels solid and well-built all around.
So just depends on your use: if you’re through hiking and want a field repair tool? It’s a bit heavy.
Going to keep it in the back of your truck or in your field service toolbox? This is excellent for that.
4. Smith’s TRI-6 Sharpening Stone
At the low price range, you can get this pocket sharpener, it is a very good buy. Good water stones will cost you $40 a piece but are much larger so easier to move your blade across. This is under $30 for 3 stones and a stand but the stones are about 7/8″ smaller in width and 2″ smaller in length than a traditional Japanese water stone. If you are used to using larger stones, you may have a hard time adjusting to the size of these stones. If you are a beginner or someone used to more casual sharpening with a rod or a smaller pocket stone, this is a nice step up and perhaps a good introduction to stones especially if you own a few smaller blades or pocket knives.
If you are a beginner or someone used to more casual sharpening with a rod or a smaller pocket stone, this is a nice step up and perhaps a good introduction to stones especially if you own a few smaller blades or pocket knives.
If you haven’t used a sharpening stone before, it does take some practice before getting used to. The blade guide that comes with it can be helpful. If you aren’t sure of the edge angle on your blade, it’s best to check with the manufacturer of your knife for recommendations on proper sharpening and edge angle.
Mostly, you are not going to be using the coarse grit stone unless your knife is super dull (usually from not being maintained properly). You need to start with the medium grit stone which removes minimal metal from the blade. The fine stone is for taking that last little bit or maybe just for touching up a bit before doing some more serious work with your knife. You could then finish off with a leather strop block if you wanted but most of the time that is overkill.
5. Spyderco Tri-Angle Sharpmaker
If you’re bad with keeping steady angles of blades, then this pocket sharpener is definitely the right pick for you.
This is an incredible knife sharpener! The system is easy to master, and gives a perfect edge on anything with an edge or a point. Knives, scissors, fish hooks, tools, serrated blades…. you name it!
The concept is that with the blades being more vertical and angled (rather than lying flat on a table). Hence, you don’t have to worry about running the blade at the right angle, or messing up your bevel. It has 2 angles to choose from, set it up, and keep your blade straight vertical as you run it down.
There’s a DVD with videos if you want to see how these tricks are done, or a booklet going through the various steps to sharpen or hone and how they are done. EASY!
Two sets of stones—a coarser one to get the burrs off, and a finer ceramic set to refine the edge. There are guards to keep your ultra-sharp blades from slicing your flesh, and it all folds up neatly into a box for easy storage.
You can also use these stones without any type of lubricant, as long as they are cleaned and maintained properly after each use.
6. Fallkniven CC4 Ceramic Whetstone Sharpener
This small stone is easy to carry and has just the right grit to bring a knife from dull to sharp with very little work.
The CC4 combines the two best stones for blade repair and recovery. The dark side is, it’s aggressive enough to remove a small knick and take care of most dulling issues. The white ceramic side puts a mirror edge on all the blades you sharpen.
The white side stains from the steel being removed but keeping the blade wet will alleviate some of the staining.
You don’t need any lubricant for this stone too. Weight of the stone is 1.8 oz by itself or 2.3 oz while in the black leather sheath.
Going in the woods for any duration of time you need to push the “1 is none 2 is one” rule, while also remembering you have to carry everything on your back.
I believe that if you keep your tools in good shape with proper edge symmetry, this should be able to bring back any edge failure you might run into while out and about.
7. BlizeTec Pocket Knife Sharpener
Curated with a diamond coated sharpening rod, this BlizeTec Pocket Knife Sharpener comes with a uniform diameter and is suitable for daily use and all types of field work. The outer body of this tool comes with a sleek aluminum handle, a clip for your shirt pocket, an adjustable ring and a safe handle so that it’s convenient and safe to use. From sharpening your kitchen knives to chainsaw chains, this tool is well made and highly functional.
If you’re tired of carrying heavy tools around, then this pocket knife sharpener will be your savior! It is lightweight and compact in size so you can easily carry it around in your pocket. Apart from that, it features an efficient blade sharpening system that will give life to your serrated blades and tools. It has two sharpeners in one rod along with an adaptable ring so you can adjust the angle at which you hold the knife while you sharpen.
When it comes to quality, this knife sharpener is manufactured with premium quality steel unlike tungsten steel or carbide stones. Also, you will be excited to know that the company offers you a lifetime warranty. All you need to do is pull out your knife sharpener and with just a few downward strokes, all the edges will be revived within seconds! If you want a fine and accurate edge for your hunting and serrated knives, then this BlizeTec Pocket Knife Sharpener is the best tool for you.
8. Sharpal 101N Pocket Knife Sharpener
This Sharpal 101N Pocket Knife Sharpener is made up of premium abrasive material and it is super multi-functional when it comes to usage. The two tone outer body is integrated with a 400 medium grit tapered rod with grooves for serrations. The design is synthetic and comes with a soft rubber coated grip for comfortable usage. It’s convenient and portable for daily use as it is only three and a half inches long and weighs only 1.5 ounce.
The blade sharpening system features tungsten carbide blades to quickly sharpen and revive dull edges. In addition, the ceramic blades are responsible to finely polish and remove burrs from an already sharp knife. If you’re an avid camper or hunter, then you’ll be surprised to know that this knife sharpener consists of an all-weather fire starter that is perfect for outdoor activities. This magnesium Firestarter creates an impressive shower of sparks when you drag it along the spine of a thick bladed knife. Also, it comes with an extremely loud emergency whistle that can provide up to 110 db. One of the most outstanding features of this sharpening tool is that it comes along with a 3 years warranty. The fact that this product has remained durable and safe to use even after being tested 10000 times surely makes it a worthwhile purchase.
9. Work Sharp Guided Field Sharpener
The design is robust and made up of diamond and ceramic. The components include a coarse diamond, a fine diamond, ceramic hone and a leather strop.
If you’re a sportsman who needs a pocket razor on every once in a while, then this Work Sharp Guided Field Sharpener is specially designed to give you the complete sharpening solution for field applications. Not just on the field, you can equally use it at home or at your shop.
The coarse 200 grit is used for shaping and repairing while the fine 600 grit is used for sharpening. In addition, the 3 position ceramic rod is incorporated with a fine grit and a smaller diameter for a good serration. The leather strop is an exceptionally useful feature as it is conditioned with a micro abrasive to give your blades an ultra-sharp edge.
Moreover, you don’t have to worry about the maintenance as the company offers you a lifetime warranty which includes repairing defects due to constant wear and tear. The quality is top notch as this product is carefully engineered and assembled by an American company.
All in all, it is a unique pocket knife sharpener as compared to other ones available on the market because it is the first angle guided, 5 stage sharpening tool designed for sportsmen.
10. Victorinox VN43323 Knife Sharpener
Manufactured in Germany, this Victorinox pocket knife sharpener has a classic and modern look as compared to conventional knife sharpeners. The design is sturdy, compact and ideal for daily purposes. It is equipped with two types of ceramic sharpeners – a stick type and a V-type. With it weighing only 1.5 ounce, you can easily fit this must have tool in your pocket or toolbox. The upper cap for the stone is built so that you can place it on the ceramic side to have a stronger grip while sharpening.
As the top part is designed for the typical slide to sharpen capability, the rest of the rectangular body becomes a swiftly maneuverable sharpening rod. In addition, this Swiss-made dual function knife sharpener is combined with a honing stone for pre-sharpening for fine edges. Quality and durability is not something to worry about because Victorinox is a highly esteemed brand known for selling multi-tools and pocket knife sharpeners. So if you’re on the go and looking for something super lightweight yet functional, then this product is the best pick.
How To Select A Best Pocket Knife Sharpener
Currently, there are many pocket knife sharpeners available both in the online and offline markets. But the question is which one to choose? Which one is the best pocket knife sharpener for your knives?
Well, there is no exact answer for these questions because there are many types of knives, like carbon blade knives, serrated knives, stainless steel knives, ceramic knives, Japanese style knives, etc. and selection of the best pocket knife sharpener depends on the type of knives, your personal preference and your budget is another important factor.
Best Pocket Knife Sharpener Buying Guide
We highly recommend you to avoid cheap pocket knife sharpeners, because a low-quality knife sharpener can damage your pocket knife.
1. Hard Surface:
Best pocket knife sharpener should have very hard surface. Experiments have found that if we rub a knife on a harder surface, it will give a better and long lasting edge to your pocket knife.
2. Adjustable Angle:
If you have no previous experience in knife sharpening, it will be difficult for you to hold the knife at the right angle in order to sharpen it effectively. It takes a little practice to learn it.
So, instead of destroying knives, some knife sharpeners come with guides that adjust the required angle of the blade to give it a razor sharp edge.
These pocket knife sharpeners are particularly built to accommodate the angle of a blade when sharpening, despite what type of blade you have.
3. Sharpening Stages:
Usually, pocket knife sharpeners have at least two stages. The purpose of having multiple sharpening stages is so that you won’t need to bring along two or more knife sharpeners. Because in stage 1, the sharpener will give the required angle to the dull knife. And in the second stage, it will give touch ups and polish your knife.
4. Size:
Size of the pocket knife sharpener matters very much because some people think it should be small to fit in your pocket but on the other hand, some outdoorsmen thought the other way.
If a pocket knife sharpener does not fit in your pocket, then you have the option to put it in your backpack easily. And carry it wherever you want.
If you have large hands, then chances are you won’t feel comfortable in using a too small knife sharpener. So, in this case, you need a pocket knife sharpener that fit in your hands.
5. Weight:
Normally, pocket knife sharpeners are lightweight due to their small size. But if you are looking for a bit larger pocket knife sharpener that you carry in your backpack rather than pocket. Then you may want 2/3 ounces is not a lot of weight.
Types Of Pocket Knife Sharpeners
1. Sharpening Stone
Sharpening stones have been used to sharpen pocket knives since ancient times and it is still one of the most efficient ways of sharpening pocket knives. These are made up of natural materials like concrete, rock, ceramic, diamond dust, etc.
These are more or less one inch wide and have the ability to remove a lot of material from your pocket knife to give it a razor-sharp edge.
2. Steel Rods
Normally, these steel rods are used for maintaining the edge of your knife and not for sharpening dull knives.
They are made of a long rod which is either ceramic or steel. Although they don’t give a razor-sharp edge to your dull knives, these steel rods are still considered good for maintaining the proper edge of a pocket knives.
3. Knife Hones
These knife hones come with different sizes, shapes, styles, and use stone or steel to sharpen your knives. They are like steels rods, so not great for sharpening a knife with a dull knife but they are still used as pocket knife sharpeners because they can polish and give quick touch-ups to your blade.
Even electric knife sharpeners are very popular nowadays. But these three types of knife sharpeners are still used widely to give quick tweaks to your knives.
Getting a razor sharp pocket knife is not as much difficult as some newbie thinks, and many of these sharpening tools make it extremely easy for those who are new in sharpening.
If you like hunting knives, you can also check the best hunting knife sharpeners or maybe you would like to check our best electric knife sharpeners.
Sharpening requires a little patience, because if you force your pocket knife through these devices in a rush, it may damage your knife’s edge.
We recommend you if you are a newbie, it’s better to practice with a cheap knife that you are not worried about ruining.