Work Sharp Professional Precision Adjust Elite FAQ

General Questions

What is the Work Sharp Pro PA Elite?

The Work Sharp Professional Precision Adjust Elite (Pro PA Elite) is the newest version of Work Sharp’s Professional Precision Adjust (Pro PA) guided sharpening system, featuring resin-bonded diamond abrasives, an upgraded leather strop, and a rugged carrying case for better organization. It builds on the Pro PA by refining the sharpening experience and offering more control over edge finishing.

How is the Pro PA Elite different from the Pro PA?

The core sharpening chassis is the same, but the three biggest upgrades are:

• New resin-bonded diamond stones (1200, 2000, and 3000 grit) for finer sharpening and a mirror-polish finish.
• Smooth leather strop that allows you to apply custom honing compounds.
• Rugged carrying case for easier storage and transportation.

Is the Pro PA Elite replacing the Pro PA?

No, the Pro PA is still available and remains an excellent sharpening system. The Elite version is designed for users who want finer abrasives and more customization options in their sharpening process.

Who is the Pro PA Elite for?

The Pro PA Elite is best suited for:

• Knife collectors and enthusiasts who want to refine their edges beyond the Pro PA.
• Users of high-end or super-steel knives (e.g., CPM 15V, Rex 121, Maxamet, etc.) who need precise control over sharpening.
• Those who want mirror-polished edges without switching to bench stones.

Performance & Usage 

What’s the advantage of resin-bonded diamond plates?

Unlike electroplated diamond plates, resin-bonded plates wear down gradually, continuously exposing fresh abrasive, similar to water stones but with the cutting power of diamond. This allows for a smoother, more refined sharpening experience, especially at finer grits (1200-3000).

Work Sharp's resin bonded diamond plates also contain chromium oxide abrasive, making them especially good at achieving a fine polish. This is great for users wanting a mirror polish to their knife bevels. 

Can the Pro PA Elite handle super-steels like 15V, Maxamet, or Rex 121?

Yes! The resin-bonded diamond plates are effective at sharpening even the most wear-resistant steels.

How does the new leather strop compare to the Pro PA’s strop?

The Pro PA Elite features a smooth leather strop, rather than the rough pre-loaded strop of the Pro PA. This means:

• You can apply your own choice of stropping compounds (e.g., diamond spray, chromium oxide, or gunny juice).
• It provides greater flexibility in achieving a final polished edge.

Does the Pro PA Elite still use the same sharpening angle system?

Yes, it maintains the same adjustable angle system (15°-30°), small knife table, and guided sharpening arm as the Pro PA.

How long do the new resin-bonded plates last?

While they wear down differently than electroplated plates, they still last a long time, especially with proper cleaning and maintenance. Because fresh abrasives are continuously exposed, they maintain consistent cutting ability over time.

Can I buy just the resin-bonded stones separately?

Yes! If you already own a Pro PA, you don’t need to buy the full Elite system—you can purchase the Upgrade Kit which includes the 1200, 2000, and 3000 grit resin-bonded diamonds stones and smooth leather strop. 

Maintenance & Troubleshooting

How do I clean and maintain the resin-bonded diamond plates?

Cleaning is simple:

• Use water and a soft brush to remove metal swarf.
• Avoid heavy pressure, as these plates work best with light, even strokes.
• Do not use oil—these plates are designed for dry or water-assisted sharpening.
• If a resin bonded plate needs resurfacing, you can use the diamond plates for that task

Where can I get replacement abrasives?

Replacements for all of the abrasives are available:

• Coarse 320/400 Grit Diamond Kit
• Fine 600/800 Diamond Kit
• Ceramic Hone
• Leather Hone (pre-loaded with Compound)
• Upgrade Kit (1200, 2000, 3000 grit Resin Bonded Diamond Plates, Smooth Leather Strop, 0.5-micron Chromium Oxide Honing Compound)

How do I apply stropping compound to the new leather strop?

The smooth leather strop lets you use any compound of your choice. The Pro PA Elite does include a block of green Chromium Oxide stropping compound. To apply:

1. Rub a small amount of stropping compound evenly over the surface.
2. Let it dry slightly before stropping.
3. Reapply when needed for optimal performance.

Does the Pro PA Elite require assembly?

No major assembly is required—just attach the chassis to the base, screw in the sharpening arm, and you’re ready to sharpen.

What should I do if I’m struggling to maintain my sharpening angle?

The digital angle indicator (included) can help you fine-tune your angle settings. Additionally:

• Always ensure the clamp is secure before sharpening.
• Use light, even pressure. Pressing too hard can cause inconsistencies.
• If the knife is particularly large or heavy, use the Clamp Support (included).