A-1 Precision Sharpening
At our core, we believe in quality that endures. sharpening tools are designed to enhance performance and longevity, ensuring that your not only work efficiently but also stand the test of time. Invest in quality today, and watch tools last longer, delivering exceptional results with every use.
Our Story
A-1 Precision Sharpening takes pride in the exceptional service and craftsmanship we offer in the sharpening industry. In November 2024, Bret and Zach Walker purchased the business from Dan and Linda Bunn, ensuring a seamless transition while maintaining the dedication and expertise built over four decades at the heart of our services. Bret and Zach's commitment to quality and a family-oriented approach drives us forward, providing top-tier sharpening services to homeowners and businesses alike.
TEAM
Our Dedication to Excellence
At A-1 Precision Sharpening in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, we specialize in restoring your tools to their optimal performance. From carbide saw blades to industrial tooling and everyday household equipment, we offer expert sharpening services tailored for both commercial residential customers. Our dedicated team collaborates with you to ensure your specific needs are met with precision and care. Contact us today to discover how we can help sharpen your tools!
Bret Walker
Bret Walker has dedicated his adult life to operations, with a brief stint at the Iowa Department of Corrections. His passion for precision and detail led him to A-1 years before he owned it, when he sought out a local company to sharpen granulator blades. During a tour of A-1, he was captivated by the business, planting the seeds for his future dream. After immersing himself in small business podcasts and exploring business-for-sale ads, Bret recognized the opportunity to make A-1 Precision Sharpening his own, leading him to a pivotal moment with his son Zach.
Finley holds the distinction of being a key part of the negotiation for the purchase of A-1 Precision Sharpening. The daughters CJ and HR, mostly HR as CJ has allergies, saw this as their opportunity to achieve their long-held desire to obtain a cat. These days Finley is in charge of customer relations and pest control. You can see this apex predator in action in the video.
Zach Walker
Zach Walker, Bret's son and partner at A-1 Precision Sharpening, plays a vital role in the business. After a year of college baseball, he transitioned to the workforce, quickly rising to a management position at a corporate full-service carwash. With his strong leadership skills dedication, and passion for customer service, Zach is committed to upholding the family legacy of exceptional sharpening services for both commercial and residential clients. Excitingly, he and his girlfriend, RT, are looking forward to welcoming their first child in July2025, marking a new chapter in the Walker family story.
Dan and Linda Bunn are the owner's emeritus of A-1 Precision Sharpening. In 1983 they began working on A-1 in earnest from their garage, where it remained until 2001 when they joined forces with E&J Sharpening on Center Point Road. They stayed there until they moved to the current location in 2005. Dan and Linda operated A-1 for the next 20 years from that location until selling to Bret and Zach to begin their transition to retirement. Dan and Linda can still be seen at the shop on a daily basis (except when they are Scuba diving in Honduras) and are passing on their wealth of knowledge to Bret and Zach. Linda does plan to fully embrace retirement ahead of Dan, as Dan plans to continue working in some fashion with A-1 Precision Sharpening (Dan says part-time maybe 40 hours/week).