Hook Sharpeners

[radke22]

I just received a bunch of VMC hooks, but they are not sharp on any level. I'd prefer a battery operated sharpener, but not quite sure which ones are considered good. Any comments would be appreciated.

[chief]

Radke22,

Rapala, Mister Twister, and Berkley, to name a few companies, make fairly decent hook sharpeners, but I personally find their effectiveness very limited. Most are designed to put a cone point on hooks, but this only works on smaller hooks that can be fully and evenly inserted into small openings that feature even smaller file surfaces. For a simple, inexpensive, and long lasting solution, go to your local hardware store and buy two double-sided, general use files (describe what you'll use them for, and you'll get good help and advice). Get them in different grades: one for rough sharpening, and one for finishing. Put a wood or plastic handle on each and for about $12.00 you'll be set for years. Google "Hook Sharpening" and you'll find dozens of "how to" articles. I believe every hook is dull until I personally sharpen it. The files described above sharpen everything from 9/0 muskie trebles to size 10 light wire aberdeens, and they do it in a few seconds. Sharp hooks, and fresh line will put more fish in your boat than all lures combined. Good Luck

[Deitz Dittrich]

The best one I have found is by Lure Jenson I think.. it has a yellow handle and is quite inexpensive. I too have trie dthe battery ones and have been not impressed.

[Hookmaster]

I use a points file. Easy to handle.

[hill7410]

I just purchased a new hook sharpener from cabela's, it was around five bucks and it looks like a pen, it works great, you can also use it for your knives too, very handy to throw in the tackle box.

[Ralph Wiggum]

I also have the Luhr Jensen file and it does a great job. If only I could figure out a way to sharpen circle hooks now.

[musky hunter]

I use a couple of stones. But they are industrial grade corrundum samples not generally available to the public. If I didn't have them I'd use the files.