This is a good thread, as it pulled together some previous discussions that should hopefully end up in the FAQ for the forum, if they are not there already. There are some great links and how-to's listed throughout the sharpening discussion. I'll probably start to acquire some of this after I have a good stockpile of SYKs purchased, because all of this material and equipment will run the cost of a couple of blades! It will definitely be worth it over time.