Start with a mousepad and sandpaper and a good strop. Add to that a Sharpmaker and then work your way to free hand like MB is talking about and then on to a belt sander. I think when you understand jig systems like the Apex Pro and the newer Wicked Sharp- it actually makes you better on the belt. Just my two cents- I have more stones and sharpening systems than I need- but I am as addicted to sharpening as I am to the knives. Also talk to guys like Vic and fast camo ( Paul). I " think" Vic still does sharpening and he is excellent <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbup.gif" alt="" />-Luck