Asking how to "best" sharpen of what is the best technique/angle to put on a blade is a questions you will never get one answer too. But I won't cop out with that answer. Here you go.

I agree with Skunk. I use diamond stones and follow it up with a ceramic rod when I want to shave. There are people out there that will tell you you have to have a perfect facet on the edge and some say a convex edge is best. I don't think it matters. I have gotten so sharp they'll slice atoms. Yes, I can split an atom with my pocket knife. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />

Strop are good too. I use a leather belt I were downrange I impregnated with some rubbing compound. But, I don't think the best utilitarian edge is always smooth. It depends on what you want to use it for. I think a slightly rougher edge (one that hasn't been polished to a mirror finish) is best for cutting ropes and what not. The little scratches from the stones work as a "micro" serration.

If you are having trouble getting your knives as sharp as you'd like, try making your edge more acute, but realize it won't last as long as a more obtuse edge. You need to find the angle that is right in the middle.

Again like Skunk, I just use sound and feel to get the edges the way I want.

There are a few sites and books out there dedicated to sharpening. A Google search should be easy. Learn about burs.