: To sharpen a low angle block plane is it a good idea to purchase a honing
: guide and angle jig? The Veritas system costs around $33 in combo or I can
: get the guide separately for around $12. Do I need both?

: Also, if I don't use the sandpaper and glass sharpening method, what grit
: waterstones would you suggest?

: Thanks

I just bought the Veritas system (see post below-Tools:Veritas Honing System) and am very happy with it.
I agree with Dan in that once the angle is set, the setting jig is a moot point, but I had some old tools that have seen some years and the Jig was a necessity, at least at first. Since I frequent flea markets for old tools and do some sharpening for other folks, I'll use the setting jig more than most.

As for the stones or glass and sandpaper, I use the SMith's Tri-Stone that has a coarse, meduim and fine grit on a three sided cradle. for final honing I have a combo Japanese Waterstone that I got from Woodworkers warehouse and this
setup does a fine job for all my sharpening needs. Note that the coarse stone is only necessary for establishing the angle when the original angle has been boogered up, or needs to be changed.

I have no problem with the glass , sandpaper thing, but I already have all the stones so that is what I use. I would note that the glass and sandpaper has merit in that you can size the glass to a length longer than most stones and therefore get a longer run, maybe saving some time in the long run.

Dave S