This knife sharpening system is so easy, even my wife can safely do it. It is basically a knife holder that comes with a large chef's knife. You simply place the knife into the slot at the top of the box (it will lock into place), then lift and lower the tab on the side of the box to sharpen. There is a safety feature where to remove the knife from the box, you have to slide a tab down while lifting out the knife. As someone with two little kids at home, I really appreciate the safety feature. I used the knife to cut up some chicken for dinner and it easily sliced through it. it will work with other knives, but it has to fit the slot.