What type of sharpener do you folks carry in the field for fast touch up on SY blades. I am not talking pofiling a blade that is really dull- more of something fairly fast and portable. Would also appreciate any tips for getting it really wicked sharp also. Thanks

I carry an E-Z Lap (Model M I think) in my pack.
The handle is brass and the rod appears to be diamond-coated.
OK for touch ups in the field but I have never been able to bring back a "scary" edge to any of my outdoor blades using it.

I use pieces of sandpaper in my pack. usually 1000 grit, then 2000 grit. I can never get my edges sharp like I can from home, but with practice and patience it can be used effectively to bring a damaged or dull edge up to reasonable cutting performance. It is especially helpful in choppers. For example on the scrapper 6 after an hour of abuse a few minutes with the 2000 grit made a world of difference.

I've toyed with the idea of using cardboard loaded with polishing compound as a strop in the field, but never done it.

At home I use diamond stones, a sharp marker, and a leather strop to get a hair hair whittling edge!! <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbup.gif" alt="" />

I use a DMT diafold diamond sharpener. Medium and fine grit.
Also have a Lansky coarse grit diamond flat.
They are both very light, and compact making them easy to carry in the pack.

thesurefire has a good idea regarding the sandpaper too. I usually
carry some 1200 grit as well, and have used the inside of my leather
belt to strop the blade after.
Seems to work all right, although some have suggested that if your pants
are made from some type of relatively coarse material like denim, you
can use that to strop a blade as well.