Sharpening Steels

Sharpening Steels

Sharpening steels, also known as honing steels, are long, cylindrical rods made of steel or ceramic that are used to hone the edges of knives. Despite their name, sharpening steels do not actually sharpen knives, but instead realign the blade's edge, removing any burrs or nicks that may have formed during use. This process, known as honing, is essential for maintaining the sharpness and effectiveness of a knife's blade. Sharpening steels come in a variety of sizes and materials, with steel and ceramic being the most common. Steel sharpening steels are typically made from high-carbon steel, which is harder than the steel used in most knives. Ceramic sharpening steels, on the other hand, are made from a type of ceramic that is harder than steel. Both types of sharpening steels are effective at honing knife edges, but ceramic steels are generally considered to be gentler on the blade and are less likely to cause damage. To use a sharpening steel, the knife is held at a 20-degree angle against the steel and drawn down the length of the steel, starting at the base of the blade and moving towards the tip. This process is repeated several times on each side of the blade until the edge is honed to the desired sharpness. It is important to use a consistent angle and pressure when honing the blade to ensure that the edge is evenly aligned. While sharpening steels are an essential tool for maintaining the sharpness of knives, they are not a substitute for actual sharpening. Over time, the blade of a knife will become dull and require sharpening to restore its edge. Sharpening steels can be used to maintain the sharpness of a knife between sharpenings, but eventually, the blade will need to be sharpened using a sharpening stone or other sharpening tool.

honing, knives, steel, ceramic, sharpening

— Joshua Wood

CITATION : "Joshua Wood. 'Sharpening Steels.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/?E=279568 (Accessed on July 02, 2025)"