I don't know anything about that Buck version of steel or heat treatment but for sharpening at home, I think the vertical rod sharpeners are very easy to learn how to use well. And quick to setup. Maybe not the ultimate sharpening method, but plenty good without a lot of setup, clamps, etc.
In general, I like a ceramic rod and old leather belt for a strop.
I think that this is a good video on three different vertical rod sharpeners. Good tips, and fairly objective even though they are trying to sell their version. Hope this helps.
