Buying guide
Knife Sharpeners: Steels, Stones and Pull-Throughs
The difference between honing and sharpening, and which sharpener suits which knife and cook.
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A sharp knife is safer than a blunt one: it cuts where you aim instead of slipping. Keeping it sharp takes two different jobs, honing and sharpening.
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We only list products once their specifications have been checked against the manufacturer or retailer. Until then, use the criteria in this guide to compare what's available.
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Honing vs sharpening
- Honing (with a steel) straightens the edge, which bends with use. Do it little and often.
- Sharpening grinds away metal to make a new edge. Needed every few months, depending on use.
Types
| Sharpener | Ease | Edge quality | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Honing steel | Easy with practice | Maintains | Ceramic rods also sharpen lightly |
| Pull-through | Very easy | Good | Fixed angle; check it suits your knives |
| Whetstone | Takes practice | Excellent | Different grits for repair and polish |
| Electric | Very easy | Good | Removes more metal; quick |
Angles
European-style knives are usually sharpened at a wider angle than many Japanese knives. Check the angle your knife maker recommends, and choose a sharpener that matches.
Also see
Store sharp knives safely: see knife storage ideas, and choose a good chef's knife.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I sharpen my knives?
Hone with a steel every few uses, and sharpen properly every few months, or whenever honing no longer brings the edge back.
Do pull-through sharpeners damage knives?
Good ones are fine for everyday knives, but they remove more metal than a stone and use a fixed angle. Use the angle your knife maker recommends.
Can I sharpen serrated knives?
Not with most pull-through or flat stones. Use a tapered ceramic rod made for serrations, or a professional service.
How we choose
BeneRecipes compares tools using manufacturer specifications and retailer listings. We have not tested these products ourselves and don't publish star ratings. We explain which type suits which cook and why.
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