Help picking between a gen 3 or a pro pack 2

Hi Dave another UK lad here 🙂

I can’t comment on the Gen3 as it didn’t exist when I bought my system but I’ve had no problems at all with my pro pack 2 in the time I’ve owned it. We seem to have a similar collection of knives and I’ve been able to sharpen everything from a 3inch slipjoint to a 14inch Global chef knife without problems (and very impressive results).

I have been thinking about a gen 3 vice to help hold full flat ground blades better (i use a non slip mouse mat type material to help hold them securely in the normal clamp) but remain undecided at this time.

You can order from Knives and Tools with confidence as it’s where I got my system from (and other accessories since) but be aware they are not a UK company. It will be shipped from Germany so factor in 3-5 days for shipping. If you want a faster service (although they are out of stock as I type) then use Heinnie Haynes, a UK company with legendary customer service in the UK knife community. They are the same price as Knives and Tools and you are likely to get your goods next day.

This is my set up, I added the low angle adaptor, 50/80, 1200/1600 stones. Since then I’ve also added balsa strops which I use with 0.5 micron DMT spray (also available from Knives and Tools) which I prefer to the paste (personal preference). I also use polish tapes from the Edge pro system on the hard ceramic stones. I’d like to use the Wicked Edge stuff listed on their sites but I’m concerned about the import and shipping costs from the US. I can only hope as things take off and demand increases other suppliers on this side of the pond will stock more of the finishing accessories.

A x30 illuminated loupe really helps to see what’s going on with the edge (I would say it’s an essential accessory) but I like the idea of the microscope!

The Wicked Edge system is exceptional, expensive no doubt but you won’t be disappointed with the results

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Dave, wickededge

My apologies, all my items have started their journey in Germany so I assumed that was their central office!

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Dave

Dave,

i would suggest the pro pack 2. You can play around with both arms and the ceramics and stops really help to smooth out the diamonds. Honestly, haven’t used the upgraded arms (or any of the pro pack 2) yet. I love the feel of the originals. For me the tolerances are spot on.  I could’ve bought the $300 system and added stones. Oldawan has some good yt videos explaining the different packages if you’re a visual person.

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Dave, wickededge

Dave wrote:

Well I did it. I got the pro pack 2, Fine Ceramic Stones Pack 1200/1600, Balsa Strop and a Low Angle Adapter. I have a x30 loupe and a illuminate x30 pocket microscope already, so that saved me some. Like Martin said I can always upgrade to the gen 3 vice at a later date. Thanks for the help all Martin, nice to see another UK member. If you are happy to, what you got in your collection? Always on the lookout for new stuff. Just got to wait for it to be back in stock at knife and tool. Did look at getting it form Heinnie Haynes (got lot of bits from them, and they are top notch), but it’s on back order for 3 to 5 weeks. Will bob a post up to let you know how I get on, work permitting. Ones more thanks.

Congrats! I hope you love it. Please let us know if you have questions. Remember to start with some cheap knives and give your stones time to break in. This article is a big help: https://www.wickededgeusa.com/i-just-got-my-wicked-edge-and-sharpened-my-first-knife-its-not-as-sharp-as-i-thought-it-would-be-whats-going-wrong/ The instruction manual has essentially the same information, this article just goes into more detail and has pictures.

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Dave