First Impressions of Sharpal 17.5in Diamond Sharpening Rod
The Sharpal 17.5in Diamond Sharpening Rod promises a quick and effective way to maintain the edge on your knives. From Sharpal, a company known for its sharpening solutions, this tool is designed for both ease of use and durability. I was drawn to this product seeking a portable and reliable sharpener that didn’t require a bench setup.
My knives are essential tools, and a dull blade is both frustrating and dangerous. I’ve tried various sharpening methods over the years, from stones to electric sharpeners, but none have provided the perfect balance of convenience and effectiveness. I was looking for something that could quickly restore a keen edge in the field, whether on a hunting trip or a fishing expedition.
Upon unboxing, the Sharpal 17.5in Diamond Sharpening Rod feels solid and well-constructed. The hexagonal hand guard provides a secure grip, and the overall length seems ideal for a variety of blade sizes. The 1200 grit monocrystalline diamond rod appears ready to put a fine edge on my favorite knives.
I considered other sharpening rods like the Smith’s Diamond Sharpening Rod and the Lansky Diamond Crock Stick Sharpener. I ultimately chose the Sharpal 17.5in Diamond Sharpening Rod due to its longer rod length, which seemed better suited for larger blades, and the inclusion of built-in 20-degree angle guides, simplifying the sharpening process. My first impression is positive, and I’m eager to see how it performs in real-world scenarios.
Real-World Testing: Putting Sharpal 17.5in Diamond Sharpening Rod to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Sharpal 17.5in Diamond Sharpening Rod at my hunting cabin, where I routinely maintain my hunting knives and skinning tools. The environment was dry and cool, perfect for an initial test. I used it on a few different knives, including a fixed-blade hunting knife and a folding pocket knife.
The 20-degree angle guides made it easy to maintain a consistent angle while sharpening, even for someone like me who’s used sharpening stones for years. The rod efficiently removed material, quickly restoring a sharp edge to both knives. I was particularly impressed with how it handled the curved blade of my skinning knife.
There were no immediate issues, and I found the Sharpal 17.5in Diamond Sharpening Rod to be intuitive and easy to use right out of the box. The hexagonal hand guard offered a secure and comfortable grip, preventing any slippage during sharpening.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Sharpal 17.5in Diamond Sharpening Rod continues to perform admirably. I’ve used it on various knives, including kitchen knives, camping knives, and even a few of my smaller tactical blades. It has consistently restored a sharp edge with minimal effort.
I’ve noticed minimal wear and tear on the diamond rod itself, indicating good durability. I store it in its original packaging when not in use to protect the diamond surface. Cleaning is simple; I just wipe it down with a damp cloth after each use to remove any metal filings.
Compared to my previous experiences with traditional sharpening stones, the Sharpal 17.5in Diamond Sharpening Rod offers a significant advantage in terms of speed and convenience. It’s much faster than using stones, and the angle guides ensure a more consistent edge.
Breaking Down the Features of Sharpal 17.5in Diamond Sharpening Rod
Specifications
- The Sharpal 17.5in Diamond Sharpening Rod features a monocrystalline diamond rod with a 1200 grit. This grit is ideal for putting a fine, polished edge on knives.
- It includes built-in 20-degree angle guides, which simplify the sharpening process by ensuring consistent blade angles.
- The rod has a hexagonal hand guard for a secure and comfortable grip. This is important for safety and control during sharpening.
- It has a total length of 17.5 inches, providing ample surface area for sharpening various blade sizes.
- There is also a lanyard hole for easy carrying and storage.
These specifications are essential because they directly impact the rod’s effectiveness and usability. The 1200 grit diamond provides a fine edge, while the angle guides make the process easier for both beginners and experienced users. The hand guard enhances safety, and the overall length makes it versatile for different knife sizes.
Performance & Functionality
The Sharpal 17.5in Diamond Sharpening Rod excels at quickly and effectively restoring a sharp edge to various knives. The diamond surface aggressively removes material, shortening the sharpening time compared to traditional stones.
The 20-degree angle guides are a standout feature, making it easy to maintain a consistent angle. This feature significantly improves the sharpening results, especially for those who struggle with freehand sharpening. The Sharpal 17.5in Diamond Sharpening Rod meets and exceeds my expectations for a portable sharpening tool.
Design & Ergonomics
The Sharpal 17.5in Diamond Sharpening Rod is designed for ease of use and comfort. The hexagonal hand guard provides a secure grip, preventing slippage even with wet hands.
The weight is balanced, making it easy to control the rod during sharpening. There is a minimal learning curve, even for those new to sharpening rods.
Durability & Maintenance
The diamond rod appears to be highly durable, showing minimal wear after months of use. The robust construction suggests it will last for many years with proper care.
Maintenance is simple; wiping the rod with a damp cloth after each use is sufficient. The Sharpal 17.5in Diamond Sharpening Rod is designed for longevity and ease of maintenance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Sharpal 17.5in Diamond Sharpening Rod comes as a standalone product and does not include any additional accessories. Customization options are limited.
It is compatible with most knives, regardless of brand, making it a versatile sharpening tool. No additional accessories are really needed, given its inherent simplicity and focused function.
Pros and Cons of Sharpal 17.5in Diamond Sharpening Rod
Pros
- Built-in 20-degree angle guides simplify sharpening, ensuring a consistent edge.
- 1200 grit monocrystalline diamond rod quickly and effectively restores a sharp edge.
- Hexagonal hand guard provides a secure and comfortable grip, enhancing safety.
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Portable and lightweight, making it ideal for field use.
Cons
- Limited to a single grit (1200), might require a coarser stone for heavily damaged blades.
- No included storage sheath or case.
Who Should Buy Sharpal 17.5in Diamond Sharpening Rod?
The Sharpal 17.5in Diamond Sharpening Rod is perfect for:
- Hunters who need to maintain a sharp edge on their knives in the field.
- Fishermen who require sharp fillet knives for processing their catch.
- Campers and hikers who want a lightweight and portable sharpening solution.
- Survivalists who need a reliable tool for maintaining their blades in emergency situations.
- Home cooks who want to keep their kitchen knives sharp and ready for use.
Those who should skip this product:
- Individuals who prefer electric sharpeners or guided sharpening systems with multiple grits.
- Those seeking a tool for heavily damaged or chipped blades, as a coarser grit may be required first.
A must-have accessory is a small rag or cloth for wiping the rod after use.
Conclusion on Sharpal 17.5in Diamond Sharpening Rod
The Sharpal 17.5in Diamond Sharpening Rod is a highly effective and convenient sharpening tool. The built-in angle guides and durable diamond rod make it easy to restore a sharp edge to various knives.
At $26.99, the price is justified considering its performance and durability. I would definitely recommend the Sharpal 17.5in Diamond Sharpening Rod to anyone looking for a portable and reliable sharpening solution. Invest in a Sharpal 17.5in Diamond Sharpening Rod and keep your blades razor sharp!