First Impressions of Smith’s Sharpeners/INACTIVE Pocket Pal Knife Sharpener
The Smith’s Sharpeners/INACTIVE Pocket Pal Knife Sharpener is a compact, affordable tool designed to keep your blades in top condition. With its coarse and fine sharpening slots, along with a tapered diamond rod for serrations, it promises versatility in a small package. I’ve relied on various sharpening methods for years, from whetstones to electric sharpeners, and I’m always searching for a reliable pocket-sized option for field use.
I was specifically looking for a lightweight, easily packable sharpener for my backcountry trips. My knives often dull quickly when processing wood for fires or preparing game, making a portable sharpener essential. I’ve previously used larger, multi-stone systems that were too bulky, and inexpensive pull-through sharpeners that damaged the blade’s edge. The Smith’s Sharpeners/INACTIVE Pocket Pal Knife Sharpener seemed like a good compromise between size and functionality.
Upon receiving the sharpener, I immediately noticed its bright orange ABS handle and compact size. The plastic felt sturdy enough for basic use, and the overall construction seemed solid for a budget-friendly tool. It felt lighter than my Gerber Dime multi-tool, which was encouraging for my weight-conscious packing list.
Compared to the Lansky BladeMedic or the Work Sharp Guided Field Sharpener, the Pocket Pal is significantly smaller and lighter. While the Lansky offers a wider range of sharpening options, and the Work Sharp provides guided angles, the Smith’s Sharpeners/INACTIVE Pocket Pal Knife Sharpener wins on portability and simplicity. I chose it for its ease of carry and the assumption that it would be sufficient for quick edge touch-ups in the field.
Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The Smith’s Sharpeners/INACTIVE Pocket Pal Knife Sharpener looked practical, but I wondered if its small size would compromise its effectiveness. The real test would be how well it sharpened a dull blade after extended use in the wilderness.
Real-World Testing: Putting Smith’s Sharpeners/INACTIVE Pocket Pal Knife Sharpener to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Smith’s Sharpeners/INACTIVE Pocket Pal Knife Sharpener on a five-day backpacking trip in the Olympic National Forest. The primary goal was to assess its ability to maintain the edge on my Mora Companion knife, used for tasks such as feathering sticks for fire starting and preparing food. The conditions were typical for the Pacific Northwest: damp, with occasional rain and plenty of dense vegetation.
In the field, the Pocket Pal proved easy to use, even with wet hands. The bright orange handle made it easy to spot in my pack, and the lanyard hole allowed me to attach it securely to my gear. After processing wood for a fire on the second day, my Mora’s edge had dulled noticeably.
Using the coarse carbide slot, I was able to quickly restore a working edge. The process was simple: a few passes through the slot, followed by a few more through the fine ceramic slot to refine the edge. I also used the tapered diamond rod to touch up the serrations on my Leatherman Wave. I found the sharpener effective at quickly restoring a usable edge, though not a razor-sharp one.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Smith’s Sharpeners/INACTIVE Pocket Pal Knife Sharpener has become a regular part of my field kit. I’ve used it on numerous camping trips, fishing excursions, and even around the house for quick touch-ups. It’s proven to be a reliable tool for maintaining a working edge on my knives.
Durability has been surprisingly good for a plastic-bodied sharpener. While there are some minor scratches on the ABS handle, the sharpening slots and diamond rod show no signs of significant wear. I always wipe it clean after use to remove any metal filings or debris.
Maintenance is minimal. I simply brush the sharpening slots with a small brush to remove any buildup. Compared to my experience with ceramic whetstones that require soaking and careful cleaning, the Pocket Pal is incredibly low-maintenance. It certainly outperforms some of the cheaper pull-through sharpeners I’ve used in the past, which often leave scratches on the blade and uneven edges.
Breaking Down the Features of Smith’s Sharpeners/INACTIVE Pocket Pal Knife Sharpener
Specifications
- Overall Length: 3.25 inches – Extremely compact and pocket-friendly.
- Handle Material: Orange ABS – Durable, lightweight plastic; high visibility.
- Sharpening Slots: Coarse Carbide and Fine Ceramic – Offers both edge restoration and refinement.
- Serration Sharpener: Tapered Diamond Rod – Versatile for both straight and serrated blades.
- Additional Features: Lanyard Hole – Allows for easy attachment to gear or keychains.
- Manufacturer: Smith’s Sharpeners/INACTIVE – A reputable brand known for affordable sharpening solutions.
- Grit: Coarse – Provides aggressive material removal for damaged edges.
These specifications make the Smith’s Sharpeners/INACTIVE Pocket Pal Knife Sharpener ideal for portability and quick field maintenance. The combination of coarse and fine sharpening surfaces allows for both repairing damaged edges and honing a sharp working edge. The small size and light weight mean it won’t weigh you down during outdoor activities.
Performance & Functionality
The Smith’s Sharpeners/INACTIVE Pocket Pal Knife Sharpener performs admirably for its size and price point. The coarse carbide slot quickly restores a dull edge, while the fine ceramic slot polishes and refines it. The tapered diamond rod is effective for touching up serrated blades, which is a feature often overlooked in other sharpeners.
The primary strength is its portability and ease of use. It’s small enough to carry in a pocket or pack without adding significant weight or bulk. The main weakness is that it doesn’t provide the same level of sharpness as a more elaborate sharpening system like whetstones or guided sharpeners. It meets my expectations for a quick, field-expedient sharpening solution.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is decent for a budget-friendly tool. The ABS handle is lightweight and offers a secure grip, even in wet conditions. The compact size makes it easy to handle, and the lanyard hole adds to its convenience.
The design is user-friendly, with clearly marked sharpening slots. There’s no significant learning curve; even someone with minimal sharpening experience can achieve decent results quickly. The Pocket Pal is a simple, straightforward tool that prioritizes ease of use.
Durability & Maintenance
The Smith’s Sharpeners/INACTIVE Pocket Pal Knife Sharpener is reasonably durable for a plastic-bodied tool. The sharpening slots and diamond rod are made from quality materials that should last for a reasonable amount of use. With proper care and cleaning, it should provide years of service.
Maintenance is straightforward. Simply brush the sharpening slots after each use to remove metal filings. I’ve also found that occasionally cleaning the diamond rod with a damp cloth helps to maintain its effectiveness.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Smith’s Sharpeners/INACTIVE Pocket Pal Knife Sharpener doesn’t come with any additional accessories. There are no customization options available. Its simplicity is part of its appeal.
It’s compatible with a wide range of knife types, including folding knives, fixed-blade knives, and multi-tools. While it’s not designed for sharpening very large blades, it’s suitable for most common pocket knives and outdoor knives.
Pros and Cons of Smith’s Sharpeners/INACTIVE Pocket Pal Knife Sharpener
Pros
- Extremely compact and lightweight making it ideal for backpacking and everyday carry.
- Affordable price makes it accessible to a wide range of users.
- Coarse and fine sharpening slots provide versatile edge maintenance.
- Tapered diamond rod effectively sharpens serrated blades.
- Simple and easy to use with minimal learning curve.
Cons
- The ABS plastic body may not be as durable as metal alternatives.
- Does not produce razor-sharp edges comparable to advanced sharpening systems.
Who Should Buy Smith’s Sharpeners/INACTIVE Pocket Pal Knife Sharpener?
The Smith’s Sharpeners/INACTIVE Pocket Pal Knife Sharpener is perfect for: casual campers, hikers, backpackers, and anyone who needs a portable and affordable way to maintain a working edge on their knives in the field. It’s also a good option for everyday carry, ensuring your pocket knife is always ready for use.
This product is not ideal for: professional chefs, competitive shooters requiring extremely precise edges, or anyone who prefers advanced sharpening systems like whetstones or guided sharpeners for achieving razor-sharp results.
A must-have accessory would be: a small cleaning brush to keep the sharpening slots free of metal filings.
Conclusion on Smith’s Sharpeners/INACTIVE Pocket Pal Knife Sharpener
The Smith’s Sharpeners/INACTIVE Pocket Pal Knife Sharpener is a valuable tool for anyone who needs a compact, affordable, and easy-to-use sharpening solution. While it doesn’t produce the same level of sharpness as more advanced systems, it excels at maintaining a functional edge in the field.
The price is absolutely justified. For around $15, you get a versatile sharpener that is perfect for backpacking, camping, and everyday carry.
I would definitely recommend the Smith’s Sharpeners/INACTIVE Pocket Pal Knife Sharpener to anyone looking for a reliable and affordable way to keep their knives sharp on the go. If you value portability, ease of use, and a reasonable price point, then this sharpener is an excellent choice. Grab one and ensure your blades are always ready for action!