RE: best knife sharpening for a rookie
Lansky makes a good system. Got mine on Amazon.com for $5. Originally $35, but sign up for their credit card and get a $30 credit. Shipping is usually free. Dump the card when paid off. I've done it twice for two different items. Got a $55 pair of walkie talkies for $25. Thanks Amazon!
Check out other posts in this forum cause there is some system besides Lansky that members say is easier. I like my Lansky good enough. The stone could be wider and the clamp hold the knife better, but it works well. Once I went over my knives with the medium and fine stones to set the angle, I only need the fine to sharpen.