Posted: Sat Jan 19, 2008 12:23 pmI just use a sharpening steel.
The trick to having a sharp knife is having a constant proper bevel, about 22 degrees. It's hard to do with stones without a lot of practice. The Spyderco Sharpmaker will give you an excellent edge if you can hold the knife vertically. The stones are ceramic and it comes with a DVD showing you how to use it. If you are able to follow the instructions, you'll be able to shave with your knife. It all packs up into a small package.
I never pick up a kitchen knife without picking up a steel. I seldom have to sharpen my knives because I use a steel every time. It really doesn't sharpen the knife, it aligns the edge.