There is nothing like a razor sharp knife in the kitchen whether cutting tomatoes or meat, bread or onions etc. But how do you get the perfect edge everytime, simple get the Chefs Choice Sharpener that is right for you. Chefs Choice use 100% diamond abrasive which ensures that blades are sharpened without the generation of heat which can distemper the blade. Quality knives have their blades hardened by tempering the steel which is a process where the steel is heated and cooled to exacting standards, if heat is generated when sharpening then this process can be reversed therby softening the blade, hence the advantage of using diamond as the abrasive. The model 45000 2 Stage Manual Sharpener for Staright Edged Baldes enjoys the benefits of the diamond abrasive plus precision angle guides ensuring the perfect angle between blade and diamond every time. Stage 1 is used to hone "blunt" knives to get an edge after which Stage 2 further enhances the edge and prevents the edge actually folding over. When keeping the edge on an already sharp knife Stage 2 will be sufficient. For both Stages you simply draw the blade through letting the precision guides ensure that the right angle is maintained aginst the diamond. Chefs Choice manufacture both Electric and Manual Sharpeners so select the model that's right for you and enjoy sharp blades all the time. The 45000 is ideal for use in the kitchen, tool box and tackle box or evn in the car.