The Best Knife Sharpeners

Buying Guide for Knife Sharpeners

Why buy a knife sharpener?

Dull knives are also more likely to slip from your control, putting you at risk of slicing your hands or fingers. Since even the highest quality knives dull with use, it is important to invest in the proper maintenance tools for your kitchen. Sharpening your knives every three to four months will protect both the quality of your knives and the safety of your extremities. Investing in a suitable knife sharpener can ultimately save you money, as your knives should last long if you take care of them. Choosing a convenient sharpener can seem intimidating, but plenty of sharpeners suit various culinary skill levels. For all these reasons, it is safe to say that the right knife sharpener can be a valuable asset in both professional and home kitchens.

What should you consider when choosing a knife sharpener?

• Features: The right knife sharpener should make your time in the kitchen easier. Look for a knife sharpener that features blade guides. These will help you find the right angle to sharpen your knives and keep them in premium shape. Consider looking for a knife sharpener that sharpens and polishes your blades to ensure extremely sharp edges that cut effortlessly.
• Material: Working with knives can be risky. Consider looking for a knife sharpener with a handle with a soft touch grip. This feature gives you better control over the sharpener and helps keep you safe. Most knife sharpeners use sharpening rods or grinding wheels in their sharpening process. Look for sharpening systems that use reliable materials such as tungsten steel, diamond, and carbide to sharpen your knives.
• Size: While classic knife sharpeners are rather large and take up some room on the countertop, others are small and compact enough to fit inside your pocket. Depending on your needs and your available space, you can choose the right size knife sharpener.

What are the differences between using a machine and a stone?

In summary, electric machines provide convenience, while stones offer longevity to your knives but  have more of a learning curve. Electric machines are great for those who have little to no experience with knife sharpeners as they do most of the work for you through slots that each have a different level of abrasiveness. The main downside of using a machine is that it can be aggressive and remove more material from the knife blade than if you were to use a stone. As for a sharpening stone, you have to hold the knife at the right angle, but the result is super sharp and refined. The stone requires oil or lubricant to reduce the friction between the knife and the stone, but there are options that use water, too.

Our Picks for the Best Knife Sharpeners

Pros: If you’re not a professional, don’t worry. This knife sharpener has a two-stage system that keeps your knives razor-sharp and ready for all the cutting action. Its Sapphirite wheels grind together to make a perfect angle and then polish for a nice edge.

Cons: It doesn’t sharpen as well as old-fashioned knife sharpeners. It may be best for cheaper, essential knives.

Bottom Line: Home cooks and beginners, this knife sharpener may be an excellent option for you as it can deliver sharp, professional results in the convenience of your home.

 

Pros: This whetstone set is made of aluminum oxide and is smooth and slick to provide superior cutting. It has a real bamboo base to hold the stone and a sharpening angle guide to give you the best results. The whetstone is super easy to use as it only needs water for sharpening, so there is no need for honing oils.

Cons: A whetstone is not a knife sharpener for beginners. It takes practice to get the angles right, even when using guides.

Bottom Line: Want to sharpen just about any knife like a professional? This whetstone may be just what you’re looking for. It sharpens well once you know how to use this product properly.

 

Pros: This diamond carbon steel knife sharpener works amazingly well, even for beginners. The rod has an oval shape and an ergonomic handle to provide greater sharpening efficiency. Apart from its function, it adds a refined style to your kitchen or workspace.

Cons: This sharpener may wear out more quickly than others.

Bottom Line: This sharpener will keep your knives and tools in tip-top shape with its quick, efficient process.

 

Pros: This pocket-sized knife sharpener works wonders on your favorite hunting and pocket knives. It also works on serrated blades, unlike many other knife sharpeners. The combination of the carbide blade and the ceramic stone sets and sharpens the knife’s edge. It has preset sharpening angles to help you get the most precise result.

Cons: This may not provide the sharpest results as stone-sharpening would.

Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a mini knife sharpener you can carry in your pocket or travel bag, this may be a great option. It’s easy to port around since it’s lightweight and won’t weigh you down on your next outdoor adventure.

 

Pros: This high-quality knife sharpener is genuinely impressive. It comes with seven grits and an adjustable sharpening angle that can go from 15 to 30 degrees. You can customize the grit options to revamp an old blade or polish an edge on a knife. There is a small ceramic rod that can be used to sharpen serrated knives as well.

Cons: The base doesn’t have a strong grip.

Bottom Line: If you want a high-end knife sharpening kit that is easy to use and will last a long time, this may be the best option. It’s precise, and it delivers beautiful results.

Final Thoughts

Investing in a quality knife sharpener will keep your knife-cutting skills and performance safe and precise. It is the best way to ensure your knives will be less frustrating and more enjoyable to use in your kitchen or workspace.