Okay, for all the reading I've done on the subject, let me make an attempt at answering to see if I've got my facts straight. Anyone that knows better please do chime in and correct anything I'm saying...

To my understanding, the higher the grit level, the finer the edge that's achievable and hence the sharper you can get. In the +1000grit range you can easily cut paper. In the +3000grit range you're encroaching on whittling hair. +8000grit you're in straight razor territory kind of edge, sharpness and mirror finish.

The fringe benefit of the higher grit is the higher the grit, the higher the level of mirror finish.

Again, to my understanding, sharpening steels tend to be equivalent to around 1000grit, so another nice thing about the pro-kit is you can use it for precise touch-ups (as far as higher grit AND edge angle maintenance) in lieu of a steel...Especially useful for Japanese knives with the steeper 15° edges.

Hi Everyone,

I'm new to the world of sharpeners and have been doing lots and LOTS of reading. I've finally decided on going with WE, but when I searched on some of the Dealer sites, there appears to be a "Gen II" version of the Sharpener kit. Here's an example: www.oldawan.com/Products.html

Can someone please let me know what the difference is?

Thank you.