Over the years I have used another brand's 'quick' knife sharpener with just one set of carbides satisfactorily. But recently I've flipped the "stones" (so to speak) and the sharpener just won't assemble properly. The two halves give way even with slight pressure. So I ordered this Lansky. I have her larger pencil sharpener with a graduated scale, but it's quite large, so it's kept in a <erm> safe place and isn't always available. This little Lansky is quite usable and fits right in front of the knife box. The presence of multiple angles is a definite plus. I've used it on <again, um> inexpensive kitchen knives with satisfactory results. Hair on the arms (and some skin) is easily shaved off, paper and thin cardboard are cut out. Oh, and the carving is good too. highlighted. Good results and good value for money.