I've tried sharpening knives a few times in my life and I've never been able to tell the difference. I agree with the principle, but in practice I simply haven't witnessed it matter.
most people don't even know how to properly hone a knife since there are specific movements.
i would recommend anyone sending their knives to a professional for sharpening -- you will feel much more confident cutting, and everything will be safer.
Yes, and like all other skills that take practice, most people are miserable at it. If you honestly think the opposite, I think maybe we live on different planets.
I've had the same experience with the pull through sharpeners, but I bought a cheap 2-sided Japanese waterstone and learned to use it (not very well) and the difference it makes is very noticeable despite my lack of skill. It does however take me maybe 15 minutes to sharpen a knife.
