Sparx Sharpener 3 — Dan Yosua

Last updated: January 23, 2024

Sparx Hockey has launched the Sharpener 3, a successor to my much-loved original ES100 skate sharpener that takes design inspiration from the Sparx Sharpener 2.

My Initial Impressions and Sharpener Comparisons

I've had hands-on experience with all three generations of the Sparx sharpener – over 400 skate sharpenings on my original machine, a look at what generation 2 improved on, and I have purchased the Sharpener 3 to use for the foreseeable future. The Sharpener 3, at first glance, appears more complex than its predecessors due to the introduction of Sparx BEAM. It's not necessarily more challenging to use so far, but the experience now involves (and seemingly works best with) a new companion smartphone app. For a seasoned Sparx user like me, it's different. And maybe a little slower. But overall, the changes are most exciting for completely new users. And BEAM promises to provide more precision for even the most picky skaters. The upgrades seem promising, but there's still lots to test over the coming months.

The Sparx Essentials Bundle, Pricing, and Sales

I went with the "Essentials Bundle" that included holiday pricing. Early on, Sparx didn't run sales with much regularity. These days, you'll find the best deals waiting for a holiday sale, and particularly those at the end of the year. This bundle includes the Sharpener 3, BEAM, and a set of other accessories: the grinding ring starter pack, a blade holder, a sharpener cover, the soft travel case, and deburring blocks.

What's New: BEAM and the Sparx App

The introduction of BEAM and its accompanying app is the most significant and noticeable change. It makes both the calibration and edge checking processes much more approachable. So far, the integration of this technology is neat, but it raises questions about the potential for increased grinding ring consumption. These features significantly reduce the learning curve, making it more accessible to new users. Even if it shortens the effective life of a ring, it's probably a fair trade. My setup was straightforward and my edges were dead even. So, out of the box, I haven't even needed an adjustment yet... more testing to come.

Future Outlook and Outstanding Testing

The Sharpener 3 includes many minor improvements over the second generation, in addition to BEAM. They're all welcome changes, especially the ability to update firmware over the air, but I wouldn't jump to upgrade as a generation two owner. You still have a great product. For those new to skate sharpening, hockey, and/or Sparx, the Sharpener 3 is the best overall deal and easiest to get up and running. If you aren't interested in BEAM or edge checking to begin with, you may be able to snag a deal on the remaining Sparx Sharpener 2 inventory (early 2024). I'm excited to see how Sparx will continue to evolve this technology in the future. If they can include more automated and integrated components, they'll get even closer to a true "set it and forget it" product.

This isn't a final review – it takes time to fully uncover and appreciate the quirks of a home skate sharpener or similar product. I look forward to diving deeper on BEAM, how it performs, and whether it's a meaningful upgrade over the traditional Sparx Edge Checker.

Conway + Banks

A huge thanks to Conway+Banks for sponsoring my Sparx Sharpener 3 initial impressions video! Conway+Banks offer hockey bags that are functional, stylish, and feature-rich. If you're in the market for a new hockey bag, you can save 10% Off Conway+Banks Bags using this link, and with referral code – DANYOSUA

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