Let’s Dive into Spyderco Gauntlet Select Sharpening System
The Spyderco Gauntlet Select Sharpening System is a simple and intuitive tool designed to allow anyone, regardless of experience, to achieve a razor-sharp edge on their knives. Manufactured by Spyderco, a name synonymous with quality and innovation in the knife world, this system promises effortless sharpening without the need for electricity, oils, or complex setups. I was drawn to this product by a frustrating experience: my favorite hunting knife, after years of faithful service, had become dull enough to make field dressing game a real chore.
The Spyderco Gauntlet Select Sharpening System arrived in a minimalist package, reflecting its straightforward design. The high-impact plastic base felt surprisingly robust, and the included fine ceramic rods had a reassuring heft. Initially, I considered a guided system with angle adjustments, but the Gauntlet’s fixed 20-degree angle per side seemed a simpler, more foolproof solution. My first impression was cautiously optimistic – it looked promising, but the proof would be in the sharpening.
Real-World Testing: Putting Spyderco Gauntlet Select Sharpening System to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Spyderco Gauntlet Select Sharpening System on my aforementioned hunting knife, a blade that had seen considerable use in the rugged backcountry of the Pacific Northwest. The weather was typically damp, adding to the challenge of maintaining a secure grip on both the base and the knife. The system proved remarkably easy to use, even with wet hands; the integral handguard offered solid protection. It took only a few minutes of careful, consistent strokes to notice a significant improvement in the blade’s sharpness.
No unexpected issues arose during the first use. The Gauntlet performed exactly as advertised, restoring a usable edge quickly and safely. The fixed angle ensured consistent sharpening along the blade, a feature I appreciated after years of struggling with freehand methods.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Spyderco Gauntlet Select Sharpening System has proven to be a reliable and valuable addition to my gear. It has maintained its structural integrity with no visible signs of wear and tear on the base or ceramic rods. Cleaning is straightforward; a simple wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove any accumulated metal filings. Compared to my previous experiences with whetstones and electric sharpeners, the Gauntlet is significantly easier to use and far less prone to damaging the blade.
Breaking Down the Features of Spyderco Gauntlet Select Sharpening System
Specifications
- The Spyderco Gauntlet Select Sharpening System features an injection-molded, high-impact-plastic base, providing a stable and durable platform for sharpening. This base incorporates an integral handguard for safety during use.
- It utilizes specially designed holes that hold abrasive rods at a fixed 40-degree angle (20 degrees per side), simplifying the sharpening process and ensuring consistent results. The star-shaped holes allow the rods to be rotated, exposing fresh abrasive surfaces or orienting the edges for sharpening serrated blades.
- The system includes a pair of fine ceramic rods, ideal for maintaining and refining existing edges. For more aggressive sharpening of very dull knives or reprofiling, optional CBN (cubic boron nitride) rods are available separately.
These specifications are important because they directly contribute to the Gauntlet’s ease of use, safety, and effectiveness. The fixed angle eliminates guesswork, while the durable construction ensures long-term reliability.
Performance & Functionality
The Spyderco Gauntlet Select Sharpening System excels at its primary task: sharpening knives quickly and efficiently. The fixed angle and fine ceramic rods consistently produce a sharp, well-defined edge, suitable for a variety of cutting tasks. A slight weakness is that while it works great for bringing back an edge, it’s not designed for major reshaping of the blade – the CBN rods are needed for that. Overall, the Gauntlet meets and exceeds expectations for a portable and easy-to-use sharpening system.
Design & Ergonomics
The Gauntlet’s design is focused on simplicity and functionality. The high-impact plastic base feels solid and provides a stable platform, and the integral handguard offers excellent protection. While the materials are basic, the design is well thought out, making it user-friendly even for beginners.
Durability & Maintenance
The Spyderco Gauntlet Select Sharpening System is designed for long-term durability. The high-impact plastic base is resistant to cracking and breaking, and the ceramic rods are exceptionally hard-wearing. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Spyderco Gauntlet Select Sharpening System comes with a pair of fine ceramic rods. CBN (cubic boron nitride) rods are sold separately for more aggressive sharpening tasks. There are no other customization options for this product, focusing on its core functionality.
Pros and Cons of Spyderco Gauntlet Select Sharpening System
Pros
- Easy to use: Even beginners can achieve a sharp edge quickly.
- Safe: The integral handguard protects against accidental cuts.
- Portable: Compact and lightweight for easy transport.
- Consistent results: The fixed sharpening angle ensures consistent edge geometry.
- Durable: High-quality materials provide long-lasting performance.
Cons
- Not ideal for reprofiling:* Requires separate CBN rods for very dull knives.
- Limited to fixed angle:* May not be suitable for specialized blade geometries.
Who Should Buy Spyderco Gauntlet Select Sharpening System?
The Spyderco Gauntlet Select Sharpening System is perfect for: casual campers, home cooks, hunters, and anyone who wants a simple, foolproof way to keep their knives sharp. People who need to reprofile very dull blades or those with specialized knife geometries might want to consider a more advanced sharpening system.
A must-have accessory is the Spyderco CBN rods for handling extremely dull knives.
Conclusion on Spyderco Gauntlet Select Sharpening System
The Spyderco Gauntlet Select Sharpening System is a remarkably effective and user-friendly tool that delivers on its promise of easy knife sharpening. At $66.00, the price is justified by its durability, ease of use, and consistent results. I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for a hassle-free way to maintain a sharp edge on their knives. If you’re tired of dull blades and complicated sharpening methods, give the Spyderco Gauntlet Select Sharpening System a try – you won’t be disappointed.