Using a kitchen knife sharpener is a straightforward process that can help keep your knives sharp and safe to use. Below are the general steps to use a manual kitchen knife sharpener:
Choose the Right Sharpener: There are different types of knife sharpeners available, such as handheld sharpeners, whetstones, and electric sharpeners. For this guide, I'll focus on using a handheld two-stage knife sharpener, which is commonly found in many households.
Secure the Sharpener: Place the sharpener on a flat, stable surface like a countertop or cutting board. Ensure it doesn't slide during the sharpening process.
Identify the Knife's Edge: Most kitchen knives have a beveled edge, meaning the blade is ground to form an angle on each side. The angle of the bevel can vary depending on the knife, but a standard kitchen knife typically has a 20-degree angle on each side.
Stage 1 - Coarse Sharpening: This stage is for sharpening dull or damaged knife edges. Usually, the coarse sharpening slot is labeled or indicated with a symbol like a rough stone. Place the heel of the knife blade into the slot and pull the knife through the slot, towards you, using light downward pressure. Maintain a consistent angle (usually around 20 degrees) as you pull the knife through the slot. Repeat this process 3-5 times on each side of the blade.
Stage 2 - Fine Sharpening: This stage is for refining and honing the knife's edge after the coarse sharpening. The fine sharpening slot is usually indicated by a symbol like a smooth stone. Repeat the same process as in the coarse sharpening stage, pulling the knife through the slot 3-5 times on each side.
Alternate Sides: Remember to alternate sides with each pass to maintain a balanced edge on the knife.
Check the Edge: After sharpening, carefully examine the knife's edge for sharpness. If needed, you can repeat the sharpening process until you achieve the desired sharpness.
Clean the Knife: Once you're satisfied with the knife's sharpness, clean it thoroughly to remove any metal shavings or residue left behind by the sharpener.
Remember, always exercise caution when using a knife sharpener to avoid accidents and injuries. If you're uncertain about using a particular type of sharpener or dealing with expensive or specialized knives, it's always best to consult a professional knife sharpener or follow the manufacturer's instructions. Regularly maintaining your knives with a sharpener will extend their life and make your kitchen tasks much more efficient and enjoyable.