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This is the Ken Onion Elite Mk 2

The Workshop·1 min read·WorkSharp Tools
This is the Ken Onion Elite Mk 2

Introducing the newest to the Work Sharp line of knife and tool sharpeners – where versatility meets precision, and dull edges tremble in fear.

Meet the KO2: The Ultimate Knife & Tool Sharpener

This is the Ken Onion Elite Knife and Tool Sharpener Mk 2—or as we like to call it, the KO2.

Available in two versions:

  • Base Model – Includes the sharpening cassette

  • Elite Model (KO Elite) – Includes the sharpening cassette plus the Blade Grinding Attachment (BGA)

Designed by Ken Onion and engineered by Work Sharp, this sharpener offers both guided and freehand sharpening for nearly any edge, at almost any angle.

With three core sharpening methods, the KO2 combines the power of multiple large, professional-grade machines into one versatile benchtop tool that's bold, loud, and built for serious sharpening.

 

Total Control. Total Sharpening Power.

The industry-first digital speed control buttons on the KO2 give you precise, repeatable control over your sharpening speed and usage. Whether you're honing or grinding, a simple press of a button dials in exactly what you need.

Key Controls:

  • Speed up or slow down the motor with a button—no trigger needed.

  • Low speeds for honing, high speeds for grinding.

  • Continuous Run button keeps the sharpener running hands-free.

  • Amber kill switch lets you quickly cut power—no fumbling around.

Sharpening Method 1: The Cassette System

Start simple. The included sharpening cassette supports flexible belts ranging from 120 grit (coarse) to 6000 grit (ultra-fine).

Cassette Highlights:

  • Two leather-lined angle guides with front edge support.

  • Adjustable from 15° to 30°, with 0.5° increments per click.

  • Solid tactile notches for precise and repeatable sharpening—even on swords.

Sharpening Method 2: 45° Convex Grinding

Axes, lawn mower blades, and other irregular tools? We've got a method for that.

Here's how:

  • Remove the angle guides by pulling up the back of the cassette.

  • Rotate the cassette forward to expose the belt at a fixed 45° angle.

  • Use the coarse 120 belt at speed setting 7 for handheld grinding and shaping.

  • Perfect for odd shapes, thick tools, and fast material removal.

Sharpening Method 3: Blade Grinding Attachment (BGA)

The BGA takes sharpening to the next level. Included with the KO Elite (or available separately), it unlocks true freehand sharpening with convex control.

BGA Features:

  • Full set of flexible abrasive belts in multiple grits.

  • Edge guide system for consistent angle control.

  • Works on kitchen knives, hunting knives, pocket knives, and more.

The KO2 User Guide

Work Sharp has published a comprehensive KO2 User Guide covering setup, sharpening methods, belt changes, and best practices—all in one easy-to-follow guide. Perfect for first-time users and sharpening pros alike.

 

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