I'm a strong believer in knowing how to use what you pack. I have included some Eze-Lap sharpening sticks in my survival day-pack, but I don't really know how to use them. I tried sharpening a knife last night (small Henckels kitchen knife), but it didn't seem to help much. I first tried a cheap ($2) Gerber pocket sharpener but it didn't seem to help much. Next was the Eze-lap sticks, but I don't know that they helped much in my efforts. I believe it's because I don't really know what I'm doing. I'm tired of using knives until they dull, and then setting them aside for another, sharper one. I'd appreciate your advice on sharpening.

Try going to Knifeforums.com they can help.
nice pics

Lee

Use the search feature on this "Survival Forum" or "Around the Campfire".
Many threads about sharpening, with some good links ... like this web page

Yup. Great Link.

When they say "constant blade angle" and "raise a burr on both sides", DO IT. You'll just waste
your time and use up your blade if you ignore this advice.

The same grip (way you hold the knife and the stone) will not work for everyone. I've tried all
sorts of different grips and strokes. I've finally found one that allows me to keep the blade angle
(nearly) constant. After that, it was a matter of KEEP GOING UNTIL YOU FEEL A BURR ALONG
THE ENTIRE BLADE. This sounds like such a minor thing... but it's the whole thing.

After that, it's just practice, practice, practice. Get a couple of cheap blades to practice on.
I wish I had. I've nearly used up the blade on an expensive knife or two trying to get this
to work.

I have no experience with the crock stick sharpeners. I have nothing against them, just haven't
tried them.

Sharpening FAQ is here: http://www.edcknives.com/vcom/knife_knowledge.php