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Smith's 50264 vs Mueller 4-Stage Manual Sharpener Side-by-Side Comparison
Overall Verdict
The Mueller isn’t a perfect manual sharpener, but it certainly has an edge over the Smith’s 50264.
Both devices are fast and effective, with the Mueller leading the speed test by about 10 seconds. The Mueller was also more forgiving of the knife’s edge, though admittedly only because the Smith’s was the most detrimental of all the pull-through devices we’ve tested to date, scoring low in both material retention and edge smoothness.
The Smith’s is more versatile in terms of edge angle. However, this is also where its Achilles’ heel lies: It sacrifices sturdiness for adjustability. The sharpener also sports a very narrow base, which further limits its ability to stay firm and balanced during sharpening.
The Mueller does suffer from a working section that’s placed a bit too far above its base, but its base size was enough to ensure decent stability. Overall, it’s the safer and easier sharpener to work with.
Pros & Cons
- Angle-adjustable sharpening
- Sharpening slot for serrated blades included
- Wide slot inserts
- Replaceable abrasives (sold separately)
- Strong construction, pretty coloring
- Quick sharpening
- Scissor slot
- Ease of use
- Shears off a considerable amount of metal
- Awkward slot structure
- Long, narrow base
- High center of gravity
- Harsh on the knife edge
Key Specs
Where to Buy
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