So it begins

The first tool I use on a dull knife, and any knife I get is dull is a DMT Extra Course diamond plate.

The use of this plate is a  crucial component of my sharpening. It is perfectly flat and will re-establish the bevel at whatever angle I choose, which in most cases is the factory angle. Once I  have completed a few passes on each side of knife with this, I move to the Japanese Water Stones. This is also perfect for removing nicks in the blade, and remember, if you can't see the nicks they are there, this plate will find them and remove them.