Hi, just puttin my 2 Cents in.. I have some nice stones, a Lansky, Chefs Choice electric sharpner, and a Spyderco Benchmark (I think thats the name).

I never have had much luck with the Lansky, especially with knives with big spines. I know it looks like an "idiot proof" system, just goes to show I can break anything or I'm more than an idiot.

I really like the Spyderco sharpner, probably the best edges I have ever had on my knives. If something is really messed up I run it thru the electric sharpner a couple of times to re-bevel, then the Spyderco.

For convex edges I do the free hand thing with mouse pads and sandpaper to keep the convex.

Like I said it's what works for me. I guess that may not be true for all. Practice and test, find out what works for you.

PS. I doubt the forum here has many knife "newbies", but make sure if you are a newbie you understand what type of Edge or Bevel your knife has before you sharpen it.