My Mk4 needs to be sharpened, but I'm a bit of a newbie when it comes to the finer points of knife sharpening. I purchased a Lansky system, as those seemed to be the most idiot proof. But, what angle should I use? The instructions that came with the kit recommend using the 25 degree hole for most pocket knives. Is that my best bet?

Thanks,
Jim

NJSR,
I have used a sharpie permanent marker to cover the sharpened edge of my knife. Then use the angle that removes the marker. Yeah, I know it is not very scientific....but it works for me.
kmat

Yeah, I know it is not very scientific....but it works for me.
FYI, that is very scientific.

* the scientific method has five elements (goals, models, data, evaluation, revision),
* the scientific method is cyclic,
* the scientific method is a means of achieving progress toward a chosen goal.

GOAL: sharpen RSK Mk4 knife
MODEL: available angle settings on the lansky
DATA: visual examination for presence of sharpie mark
EVALUATION: if sharpie mark disappearing, you're sharpening edge
REVISION: change angle setting until you're sharpening

start with the smallest angle, increase until you're removing sharpie