There is something of a debate regarding what is the best knife sharpener. There are some knife owners that insist that hand held knife sharpeners are the ideal type, while others insist that electric sharpeners are much more efficient. Trying to choose between the two—let alone the thousands of different brands and models on the market today—can be very challenging indeed. However, you can choose the best knife sharpener by ensuring that you know the condition of your knives thoroughly. This can affect your decision more than many realize.
For example, if you rarely use your knives, or they’re very fragile, perhaps a manual knife sharpener is ideal. This allows you to sharpen and hone your blade at your leisure. It also allows you a bit more maneuverability than you get with most electric sharpeners. Manual sharpeners can consist of everything from fancy imported Japanese whetting stones to simple leather straps. Feel free to experiment with materials until you find the right one for you. You may discover that some of the more widely acclaimed materials, such as diamond encrusted slabs or silicon carbide, are much too harsh for some knives and can cause scratches. Many manual sharpeners also require the use of lubrications, such as honing oils or clean water. This will keep the blade from catching too much on the grit of the material while still providing you with a clean, sharp edge.
Do you regularly use your knives? Do you have a large collection of them? If this is the case, an electric knife sharpener is probably your best bet. Electric devices are likely the best knife sharpener in this situation because it can sharpen an entire drawer full of gourmet and butcher knives in a matter of minutes. This is largely because you only have to place the knives in the machine for a few seconds. When you remove it, it is almost instantly sharpened. Some electric sharpeners even alter the edge slightly to prevent dulling, thus extending the life of your knives.
Similarly, electric sharpeners come with a variety of different materials, including diamond coated blades, stainless steel blades, silicon carbide, and many more. Depending on the make of your knives, the material may sharpen effectively or it may create scratches. If you’re unsure as to which material makes the best knife sharpener, feel free to consult the manufacturing company. Oftentimes they have frequently ask question pages, customer service contact information, and overall information regarding their products and how they affect your knives on their official websites. Learn more today about how to find the best knife sharpener!
Would you rather have me sharpen your knives for you? Try out my curbside service, or find me at the Burien Farmers Market on Thursdays from 10am to 4pm.