Best Knife Sharpening Hacks for Beginners
In the world of knives, regardless if you enjoy culinary arts and outdoor adventures, having sharp, reliable knives is essential.
Whether you're slicing through juicy tomatoes or prepping kindling for a campfire, a well-maintained blade can make all the difference. Those who love their trusty knife like their favorite morning coffee ceramic mug, every day want a blade edge they can trust.
If you're new to knife sharpening, it can seem like a daunting task. We've gathered some of the best knife sharpening hacks for beginners, designed to help make the sharpening process simple, quick, and worry-free.
7 Hacks for sharpening knives.
Hack #1: Use a Dual-Grit Sharpening Stone or Multiple Whetstones
One of the most practical knife sharpening hacks is investing in multiple whetstones (sometimes called a water stone). Some are single grit level and some are dual-face. Dual face stones come with two different grit levels—usually a coarse face for initial sharpening and a finer side for getting a sharper edge.
This two-in-one tool is cost-effective and space-saving, perfect for those who want to keep things simple. Just remember to use light pressure only and ensure you don't damage the tip.
To begin sharpening, soak the sharpening stone in water for about 10 minutes. Place the stone on a safe flat surface.
Hold the knife handle with a secure grip and then gently glide your knife across the coarse side at your knives proper angle. Make sure you're alternating sides at a consistent angle to keep the sharp knife even.
Finish by repeating the process on the fine side of the sharpening stone for a razor-sharp edge.
For even better results, use 4 or more stones gradually increasing in grit level. That's why our whetstone packages all have 4 stones!
Hack #2: Try a Guided Sharpening System For A Better Knife Edge.
Our favorite tool to sharpen dull knives easily, quickly, and without the traditional guess work or mastering sharpening technique.
If you're worried about maintaining the right angle while sharpening, a guided sharpening system can be a game-changer. These keep your stone at a consistent angle for you while also holding the knife in place.
Some systems come with built-in angle guides or you can use a mini level to ensure consistent results without the guesswork. They’re perfect for beginners who may feel intimidated by traditional methods.
An upgrade from traditional sharpening tools.
Look for systems that are affordable and well-reviewed to ensure you’re getting value for your money. If you want to try one, make sure to grab our beginner package!
Hack #3: Leather Strop for honing and a Polished Finish
For an ultra-refined edge, consider using a leather strop after sharpening. This technique, often used by barbers for razor maintenance, involves running the knife edge over a strip of leather, which helps to polish and align the blade's microscopic teeth.
Here's the honing process.
To hone using a strop, hold your knife at a slight angle and draw it along the strop, making sure to alternate sides of the knife to maintain balance. This finishing touch not only enhances sharpness but also prolongs the durability of your edge, making it perfect for those who want to achieve a professional-level finish.
If you're wondering how important honing is to the sharpening process then keep in mind that honing earned itself its own step in our sharpening methodology.
We never finish a sharpening session without using a strop or sharpening steel.
Hack #4: Leverage Online Tutorials
The internet is a treasure trove of knife sharpening hacks. Platforms like YouTube offer countless tutorials that can demystify the process and boost your confidence.
Look for beginner-friendly videos that cover the basics and offer visual guidance. This approach can save you time and help you avoid the common pitfalls beginners face.
Just make sure you find videos that specialize in your equipment. The process for a traditional sharpener with a flat stone has key differences to a sharpening system.
Hack #5: Regular Maintenance is Key
One of the simplest knife sharpening hacks is regular maintenance.
Instead of waiting until your knives are completely dull, give them a quick hone after every few hours of use. A honing rod is perfect for this and helps keep your blades aligned and sharp.
If your knife has gotten more dull than a good honing session can fix, then using some a stone with finer grits can help, just save the coarser grit stones for dull knives.
By incorporating this habit into your routine, you'll spend less time on intensive sharpening sessions and more time enjoying your hobbies.
Oh, and do yourself a favor and keep your knives out of the utensil drawer without a sheath. Any knife or cutting tools left to move in a drawer can damage the tip and dull blades.
Hack #6: Invest in Quality, Yet Affordable Tools
When starting out, it’s easy to be overwhelmed by the vast array of sharpening products available.
Focus on finding a knife sharpener and tools that offer quality without breaking the bank. Read reviews, compare products, and consider starting with a basic, reliable tool that won’t intimidate you. This approach helps avoid the fear of wasting money on ineffective tools.
Hack #7: Join Online Communities
Finally, don't underestimate the power of community. Joining forums or social media groups dedicated to knife sharpening can provide you with valuable insights and support.
You can share experiences, ask for advice, and learn from others who have been in your shoes. This camaraderie can enhance your learning experience and make the journey less isolating.
Make Dull Knives Into An Amazing Cutting Edge!
By incorporating these knife sharpening hacks into your routine, you'll not only streamline the process but also gain confidence in maintaining your tools.
Whether you're a tech-savvy adventurer or a culinary experimenter, these tips will equip you with the skills to keep your blades in top condition, ready to sharpen any rough edge that may happen. Happy sharpening!
