Leaderboard

maybe he didn't like that horrendous new CCM logo? 🤣

M5 Pro has the same quarter package that was on the Ultrasonic and has a partial composite outersole. Add the more traditional felt tongue and that skate is pretty close to the older 1S. X5 Pro has the same quarter package and injected lacing that the 2X Pro had. Just lacks the composite outersole. Both those models are still considered pro spec when you look at the materials used.

No, it's not. A true comparison would be the Blackstone without the fine shine. Or a Sparx with a final pass by hand using the fine shine. It's beyond silly to argue otherwise. End of story.

As some said, the benefit of the Sparx is consistency and convenience. I used to sharpen FBV on a Blackstone prior to owning a Sparx, and I loved it. Nothing bad to say about it and it definitely produced better/cleaner edges. Blackstone makes a great machine. BUT, you have to know what you're doing, it takes more time, and yet there were occasions where I would still mess up and have to re-do everything. Eventually, loading a skate, hitting a button, and walking away and getting a 9 out of 10 was much more worth it to me than spending more time fidgeting with settings, checking marks, etc for a 10 out of 10 sharpen. Not surprisingly, pro EQMs use both. Sparx to establish the hollow and then a conventional sharpener to get a final finish.

To add. Of you read thru the site. I think you'll find that no one has ever said a Sparx sharpening is better than a really really good hand sharpening. It is however far more consistent and convenient. I was a Blackstone customer for years and currently own a Sparx. I have never once had a bad sharpening on my Sparx, never. I have however received uneven edges, incorrect hollows, burnt edges and ruined profiles from some very highly regarded hand sharpeners. TBH, I think the market has spoken.