The aged gramps sent me on the plane once w a carving set in my carry on bag, me being about 10 years old... and a note to the customs man telling him what was inside. This was 1980's. These are great to look out for at the thrifty, you often see them though not always antler handles like gramps gave me. A steel is a must have. There are many views on sharpening technique, and although not a huge fan of his generally, Gordon Ramsay demonstrates a clear, traditional way of sharpening using a steel.
Radio silence for a while... remember; convenience is the enemy.