This set comes with a built in knife sharpener.  However, you probably won't need to use it right away.  These knives all arrived very sharp and ready to use.  I like the color of the knife block and I also like how sturdy the block is.  However, I'm not a big fan or the built in knife sharpener.  Only because it makes the block more bulky.  We do love being able to readily sharpen our knives, just wish it wasn't so bulky.  I'm still rating it high as I'm completely going on the quality and performance of the knives.