I have had a lot of success using my ceramic sharpener on S30v, D2, 154CM, and AUS8 steels. As far as the Vanguard goes it is a different story. I do clean the rods regularly, so that is not a problem. As you said I believe 420HC is very resistant to abrasive sharpening. I will have to see if I can pick up a DMT or Lansky diamond sharpener. What angle would you recommend for a general purpose heavy bladed knife like the Vanguard. I usually thin to 22 degrees then add a compound bevel of 15 degrees. This works real well for folders and thinner fixed blades.
Thanks
Thanks