After I read all of the reviews I decided to take a chance on this kit. Yes the clamp is cheap plastic, but just be gentle and you will be fine. Most of the reviews also suggested purchasing the extra extra coarse stone, unless your knives are horribly neglected I don't see the need. The kit lacks a bit in sharping pocket knives but does a excellent job on larger knives, my kitchen knives are sharp and I mean sharp. Buy this kit and make yourself a strop, grab a beer watch some TV and in 30 mins all of your knives will be wicked sharp.