Work Sharp Ken Onion MK.2: Small Upgrade

Work Sharp has revamped its most popular electric sharpener with the Ken Onion Edition MK.2. For owners of the previous model, switching may not be worth it despite the good improvements.

The grinding angle adjustment wheel is now mounted horizontally instead of vertically, making it slightly easier to adjust in 0,5-degree increments between 15 and 30 degrees. Photo: Work Sharp

When it comes to sharpening tools for personal workshops, Work Sharp is clearly the market leader. Based in Ashland, Oregon, the company has specialized for over 50 years in developing and manufacturing sharpeners that can be used by both inexperienced users and professionals. Over time, this has led to a range that includes both simple manual sharpening systems like the Precision Adjust and electric devices like the Knife & Tool Sharpener.

The speed of the sharpening belt can be set in seven levels. Seven new LED lights indicate the current speed setting. Photo: Work Sharp

Ken Onion Edition for professional users

The latter is popular not only among knife makers due to its excellent price-performance ratio and ease of use, but is also increasingly used for sharpening smaller, private knife collections. For those who find the standard edition insufficient, the higher-end Ken Onion Edition has been available, developed in collaboration with the namesake blacksmith, offering even more flexibility than the base model, such as a wider range of possible sharpening angles and variable speed control. Additionally, an attachment can be mounted on the KO Edition, turning the device into a small belt sander.

New motor, better operation

Now, three years after the initial release of the now most popular electric sharpener, Work Sharp has launched the MK.2, an updated version that promises slight adjustments and improvements in operation compared to its predecessor. The KO2, as the manufacturer calls it, is again available in two versions. The base version includes the sharpener itself, while the Elite model comes with the Blade Grinding Attachment included. The latter can also be purchased separately.

The tension of the sharpening belt can be adjusted in three different positions. The highest setting is suitable for chef's knives, while the lowest is for larger blades and axes. Photo: Work Sharp

The biggest change is likely the new electric motor, which improves the sharpener's performance. It guarantees a runtime of 30 minutes at a stretch, providing more than enough time to sharpen a knife. The speed control has also been adjusted. While the previous model required speed adjustment via a knob on the trigger, this can now be conveniently set using buttons on the top of the handle. A third button can then lock the speed, allowing both hands to be used for sharpening. The seven speed levels are represented by individual LED lights.

Sharpening angles remain the same

There have also been some changes to the grinding angle adjustment: while the corresponding dial was previously positioned vertically on the guide, the position has been changed in the revised version so that the dial can now be turned horizontally. Not a huge difference, but a bit more comfortable when working with the device. The grinding angle remains the same, meanwhile, and can still be set in 0,5-degree increments between 15 and 30 degrees.

The head of the sharpener can be easily rotated, allowing for easy sharpening of a horizontally positioned axe. Photo: Work Sharp

Improvements have also been made to the Blade Grinding Attachment. The angle adjustment has been made easier thanks to a knob on the front, allowing for stepless angle adjustments. A slightly larger lever makes changing the sharpening belts more straightforward than before. Additionally, the tension of the belt can now be adjusted in three positions. In the highest position, for example, kitchen knives can be sharpened, in the middle position outdoor knives, and in the third position larger blades like axes.

Upgrading to MK.2 isn't really worth it

Overall, the updated version is ahead of its predecessor. The easier operation allows for even faster and more intuitive sharpening, which is likely to be appreciated in professional settings. For home use, while the changes are nice, upgrading to the new MK.2 isn't worthwhile if you already have the first version at home. After all, the base variant is expected to start at over 200 euros.