Pros
- Simple pull-through design requires no sharpening expertise
- Highly effective on quality knives per user experiences
- Lightweight and durable for field use in camping or hunting
- Handles both standard and serrated edges plus hooks
Cons
- Less effective on low-quality or heavily damaged cheap blades
- Small size can be tricky to grip with larger thicker knives
- Best results with dry hands on stable surfaces
The Smith's PP1 Pocket Pal is a compact multi-functional knife sharpener designed for outdoor enthusiasts like hunters, campers, fishers, and hikers. It combines preset crossed carbide blades for quick edge setting on dull knives, ceramic stones for polishing to a razor edge, and a tapered diamond-coated rod for serrations and gut hooks, making it a go-to tool for maintaining blades in the field without bulky stones or oils.
In real-world use, users report impressive results: restoring serrated garden shears to near-perfect condition, sharpening pocket knives in under a minute, and reviving high-end blades like Ka-Bar or SOG models effortlessly. The 23-degree angle guidance and simple pull-through or rod strokes deliver consistent sharpness on straight edges, serrated sections, and even fish hooks, outperforming expectations for such a small device during camping trips or daily tasks.
Build quality stands out with its lightweight plastic construction weighing just 1 ounce and measuring 3.5 by 1 inches, featuring a lanyard hole for easy carry. The reversible, replaceable carbide and ceramic components ensure longevity, while the ergonomic grip supports both hands, though it shines most with smaller knives.
Minor drawbacks include reduced performance on very cheap or chipped blades and challenges gripping during use on longer thicker knives, but these are minimal for its intended portable role.
Overall, the Pocket Pal earns high marks for portability, versatility, and reliable performance, making it an essential EDC item for anyone who values sharp knives without the hassle of traditional sharpening methods.
Brand: Smith's
Model: PP1 Pocket Pal
Dimensions: 3.24" L x 0.46" W x 1.11" H
Weight: 0.35 oz (9.98 g)
Material: Plastic
Color: Gray
Grit Type: Coarse, Fine
Warranty: 3 Year Limited
Carbide/Ceramic Slots: Insert blade at 90 degrees, pull back with light pressure, repeat 8-10 times until sharp. Carbides for coarse setting on straight edges; ceramics for fine polish on straight or serrated.
Diamond Rod - Straight Edge: Hold at 23-degree angle, push blade away from you along rod, repeat per side.
Diamond Rod - Serrated: Move rod back and forth through each serration at 23 degrees, or use ceramic slot.
Always use dry on a stable surface for best results.