They're okay for basic sharpening but for wood carving with knives, you want the knife to be as sharp as possible. It's safer and easier. You'll notice that the ceramic polishing stone on the lansky is only 800 grit which is way too course for getting any kind of fine edge on your knife.
If you're just starting out, maybe get whatever is cheap. I recommend this to begin with. I have achieved much better results than with any of those Lansky types of sharpeners. Then if you decide you like whittling, invest in some more expensive bench stones. You won't regret it!
They're okay for basic sharpening but for wood carving with knives, you want the knife to be as sharp as possible. It's safer and easier. You'll notice that the ceramic polishing stone on the lansky is only 800 grit which is way too course for getting any kind of fine edge on your knife.
If you're just starting out, maybe get whatever is cheap. I recommend this to begin with. I have achieved much better results than with any of those Lansky types of sharpeners. Then if you decide you like whittling, invest in some more expensive bench stones. You won't regret it!