I am one of those former "I'm not that good at sharpening" guys. I now know why I used to not be good at it and it was due to me buying the cheapest stone options, usually too small and cheaper made and with big gaps in the grits. I have since spent the time and resources to buy some quality and large stones, India, Arkansas, Water and various slips and strops. They all have their place with me, even if the water stones are bit less messy. I also made myself sit down and learn to sharpen freehand. It takes time, but I've yet to ruin one of my good chisels, and they are quite sharp now. I have various stones from 80-8000 grit.