I'm a beginner on the use of hand tools and sharpening them. After reviewing the exellent Cosman videos on sharpening, I purchased the Angle Trainer because I was concerned that I would not be holding the correct angle concistently during the sharpening process by hand without use of the Angle Trainer. I did not want to ruin a new blade or chisel by attempting to develop my skill by hand without the use of the Angle Trainer. So I began the process of sharpening a new "out of the box" blade with the confidence of using the Angle Trainer. I found that the magnets really hold your metal blade securely but its a bit difficult to make small adjustments when resting the cutting edge on the stone while keeping the base of the Angle Trainer flat on the stone. I did not want to raise the base off the stone while contacting the cutting edge of the blade on the stone. I also had a tendency to skew the cutting edge if the blade was not centered on the middle of the two angled surfaces of the Angle Trainer. I found the best way to make minor adjustments while the strong magnets held the blade was to rotate the blade 90* then back to start again to make small advancements keeping the base flat on the stone. There is a learning process using the Angle Trainer as well but I have gotten off to a good start with its use.

Not much more to be said. I will add that as an older feller some days my hands are not as steady as needed to hold the slight angles needed for the 2nd and 3rd bevels, those that really make the difference between sort of sharp and really sharp. You know, the sharpness that makes a tool a joy to use. The sound of a hand plane when this sharp is nearly addictive. And, being able to plane to finish, where the wood can’t be any better for when you add the finish (of your choice) is very satisfying and rewarding. It is so cool to be able to do this, but you need these last two bevels to do this, thus the angle guide is a must while developing the muscle memory (or if you’re an old poot like I am and need the help now and then) or skill to sharpen to this level of proficiency. As written, a well thought out and helpful training device. Well done RC. And I’d be remiss if not saying that the transaction was seamless and the customer service exemplary. Great experience all around.

The review title says it all. I’ll only add that this not meant as a permanent tool. I bought the guide to help develop adequate “muscle memory” (At nearly 70 I am not as steady handed as I used to be.). And as ALWAYS the Cosman customer service is exemplary.

everything I’ve get from Rob Cosman is top-notch. I was curious if this would make my life easier and boy has it ever!
It’s way more consistent than my own hand, pressure and guessing angles.

Very precise &great materials. Will be a very durable tool.