The Art of Knife Sharpening: Tips & Tricks for Keeping Your Chef’s Knife Razor Sharp

June 01, 2023 0 Comments

A sharp knife is the backbone of any kitchen. Whether you're a skilled professional chef or a humble yet passionate home cook, having a razor-sharp chef's knife is essential for achieving precision and efficiency in the kitchen. However, maintaining a sharp knife requires a skilful approach. This blog post from Kaz’s Knife and Kitchenware offers some valuable tips and tricks to keep your chef's knife sharp and in top condition.

Choose the Right Sharpening Tools

Investing in a high-quality knife sharpening stone or whetstone is essential. These tools offer the best control and precision for achieving a fine edge. Alternatively, you can opt for honing rods or electric knife sharpeners, but keep in mind they may not provide the same level of sharpness and control.

Understand the Sharpening Angle

Different knives have different sharpening angles. Most chef's knives have a 20-degree angle on each side. Understanding the correct angle is crucial for maintaining the knife's edge. Make sure you consult an angle guide or follow the manufacturer's recommendations to ensure consistent results.

Master the Sharpening Technique

When sharpening, it’s important to maintain a consistent pressure and use long, smooth strokes along the length of the blade. Start with the coarse grit side of the knife sharpening stone and gradually work your way to the finer grit side for a polished edge. Remember to keep the blade at the correct angle.

Honing for Maintenance

Regular honing helps to maintain the sharpness of your knife between sharpening sessions. You can use a honing rod to realign the edge and remove any minor dullness. Hold the rod vertically and swipe the blade across it, applying light pressure. Repeat on both sides several times to achieve optimal results.

Sharpen & Hone Regularly

Make knife sharpening a routine. Regular maintenance prevents your chef's knife from becoming excessively dull. Depending on usage, aim to sharpen your knife every few weeks or months. Honing should be done more frequently, perhaps once every few uses.

Learn More Today

Japanese knife sharpening requires caution to prevent accidents. Always stabilise the stone or secure the sharpener properly, and pay attention to your hand placement so you can be sure your fingers are clear of the blade's path. If you're new to sharpening, consider using cut-resistant gloves to protect your hands.

By following the above tips and tricks, you can master the art of knife sharpening and ensure your chef's knife remains razor sharp. Contact the team at Kaz’s Knife and Kitchenware for further advice and information on knife stone sharpening and other knife sharpening techniques.