Chris,
My preferrred method ( preferred because I can’t afford a better system…yet…) is to use a Lansky system similiar to sharpening a pocket knife.
Depending on blade width, I lock my guide so I can have a good 3 or 4 inch width sharpening area. I modify my sharpening stroke slightly to a slight arc instead of straight back and forth to keep a consistant edge.
It’s important to tighten the guide down with the same amount of distance from the cutting edge to keep your angle consistant across the width of the blade. Note that you can select a different angle for the guide bar if you want to give your blade a multi angle finish.
You can use the coarse, medium, fine grit stones to achieve your desired finish.
The cariboo blade site is awesome Lew, Thanks for sharing. For me, I have trouble maintaining the consistant angles while using that method. With my Lansky sharpening method, I can set the piece down for a few minutes, hours days etc, and come back and finish right where I left off. I can do this while watching, television though it greatly annoys my wife….
It isn’t perfect but the angles are much more consistant for me with this method.
Q
-- I don't make sawdust...I produce vast quantities of "Micro Mulch."