Sharpmaker model #202 update question

[SkySaw]

I was given a Spyderco model #202 by a family member quite a few years ago, after it sat in her basement for 30 years or more. It came with only one set of stones and a single angle position for the stones. I use it to sharpen my kitchen knives, but I haven't used it yet to sharpen my Japanese kitchen knife or my recently acquired VG-10 Delica FFG. I have a couple of questions about the model #202 and about a sharpening set up in general:

- the sharpmaker #204 comes with angle settings for 30º and 40º. What angle is the model #202 set for?

- I can buy a pair of the coarse rods on Amazon to supplement the #202, which came with what I assume are fine rods. Would it be a better value to just buy a #204 Sharpmaker?

- As an alternative to the Sharpmaker, I was thinking of buying a set of stones (coarse, medium, and fine grits). Would this be a better route to go for an overall sharpening setup?

I enjoy sharpening, or rather I enjoy maintaining my knives. I also plan to get another good Japanese kitchen knife as well as a couple more folding Spydercos, so I want to get a sharpening setup that will allow me to be flexible.

[sal]

Hi Skysaw,

Welcome to our forum.

I would recommend to keep you antique 202 and just get a new 204, with video, 2 sets of stones and 2 angles.

sal

[SkySaw]

Hi Sal!

Thanks for the welcome, and for the advice. I've watched the video on the #204, and I still have some questions, but they are probably best answered through first-hand experience. I will most likely pick up a #204 in the next few days!

[Robert Ptacek]

Not to derail but was the #202 ever sold with the gray rods?

[JD Spydo]

Sal is right on this one 100%>> just get a 204 unit and you won't be sorry I can assure you. And please watch the video at least 2 to 3 times before attempting to sharpen a blade. Also I would advise to sharpen a couple of your el-cheapo kitchen knives before doing one of your Spyders or other premium blades. And get the other stones you can get with the unit as well.

[rodloos]

I have both the older 202 and a 204 unit. I believe the 202 is set for 40 degrees. Mine came with both medium and fine rods, and I also bought diamond "sleeves" that slid over the rods.

Do upgrade to the 204, but don't throw out your 202 - I keep mine handy for when I misplace my 204, or just want to keep it setup in a corner for easy touch-ups on whatever blades I happen to carry that day. You will probably also want to get the CBN or Diamond rods for your 204 (even the diamond rods are not very coarse) for when you need to reprofile a blade more quickly. And check out the new version of the DoubleStuff (CBN and smooth ceramic) for a very portable little touch-up tool.