I just bought one, and I can't get a sharp point on it (lead can't get close enough to the blade, I think the blade is mounted too far out?). Did I get a defective one, or is there a trick? I saw someone working with one and he loved it and it had a sharp point, unlike the dull nib I have. I did advance the lead and tried different lengths before putting it in the sharpener.

It sounds like your sharpener may be defect. Please contact our customer service team at info@toolnut.com and we will help get this resolved for you. Apologies for the inconvenience.