Professional Knife Sharpener Buying Guide

When it comes to cooking, having a sharp knife in the kitchen is a must-have tool. However, maintaining this sharpness can be a challenge, especially if you don't have the proper equipment. Professional knife sharpeners come in handy when you want to keep your knives sharp and in good condition. With the right knowledge, you can easily find a sharpener that will meet your needs.

Factors to consider when buying a professional knife sharpener

There are several factors to consider when shopping for a professional knife sharpener, including:

1. Type of Knife Sharpener

There are several types of knife sharpeners available, including manual, electric, and sharpening stones. Manual sharpeners are the most affordable option, they require more effort than electric models, but they are still effective for most knives.

Electric sharpeners are quicker, more accurate, and convenient, but they cost more. They also tend to remove more material from the blade than manual sharpeners, which can shorten the lifespan of your knife.

Sharpening stones are the most affordable option, but they require a certain level of skill to use effectively. They also take more time and effort than other types of sharpeners.

2. Blade Material

The material of your knife will affect which sharpener is the best option for you. Some sharpeners can cause damage to certain types of blades, particularly ceramic blades. In general, a sharpening stone is safest for any type of blade.

3. Angle Setting

The angle that your knife is sharpened at is very important. A smaller angle produces a sharper edge, but it may also lead to more frequent maintenance. Wider angles are less sharp, but the blade will require less maintenance over time.

4. Size and Weight

The size and weight of your professional knife sharpener are important factors to consider. If you have a lot of knives, then a heavier sharpener may be better as it will provide more stability during sharpening. If you have limited space, then a more compact sharpener may be better.

5. Price

Professional knife sharpeners vary in price, and you will need to find one that fits your budget. Some knife sharpeners are more expensive but come with additional features or are more durable than other models.

Top Professional Knife Sharpeners

Based on the factors outlined above, here are some of the best professional knife sharpeners currently available on the market:

1. Chef'sChoice Trizor XV EdgeSelect Electric Knife Sharpener

The Chef'sChoice Trizor XV EdgeSelect Electric Knife Sharpener is a premium knife sharpener that can create a 15-degree edge angle, which is perfect for most kitchen knives. This sharpener is easy to use and provides a high-quality, sharp edge that is durable.

The Trizor XV EdgeSelect features three stages of sharpening, including a diamond abrasive stage that hones the edge, a flexible stropping/polishing disk that creates a razor-sharp edge, and a unique stropping/polishing stage that finishes the process with a high polish.

This sharpener is also flexible enough to work with serrated knives, which is a rarity in electric knife sharpeners. It comes with a three-year limited warranty, which is longer than most other electric knife sharpeners on the market.

2. Work Sharp Culinary E2 Kitchen Knife Sharpener

The Work Sharp Culinary E2 Kitchen Knife Sharpener is an electric sharpener that is designed specifically for kitchen knives. This sharpener features a flexible abrasive belt that conforms to the shape of the blade, which ensures that the angle of the blade is consistent throughout the sharpening process.

It has two stages of sharpening, including a coarse belt for removing nicks and chips and a fine belt for honing the edge. The E2 Kitchen Knife Sharpener can sharpen any type of blade, including Japanese knives, and it comes with a five-year warranty.

3. Shun DM0708 Classic 6-Inch Chef's Knife

The Shun DM0708 Classic 6-Inch Chef's Knife is a high-quality knife that is perfect for home cooks and professional chefs alike. The blade is made of VG-MAX steel, which is known for its strength and durability.

This knife features a 16-degree edge angle, which is perfect for most kitchen tasks. The knife is also handcrafted in Japan by skilled artisans, which ensures that each knife is unique and of the highest quality.

4. Apex Pro 1 S Knife Sharpener

The Apex Pro 1 S Knife Sharpener is a manual sharpener that is perfect for sharpening all types of knives. This sharpener uses a unique four-stage sharpening process that includes diamond sharpening, honing, stropping, and polishing, which ensures a razor-sharp edge.

The sharpener also comes with an adjustable angle guide that allows you to sharpen your knives at different angles. This makes it ideal for sharpening both Japanese and Western-style knives.

5. DMT D3EFC Dia-Sharp Continuous Diamond Extra Fine Knife Sharpener

The DMT D3EFC Dia-Sharp Continuous Diamond Extra Fine Knife Sharpener is a sharpening stone that is perfect for keeping your knives sharp. This stone features a continuous diamond surface, which ensures a consistent sharpening surface throughout the life of the stone.

The extra-fine grit of this sharpening stone is perfect for honing the edge of your knife, and it is suitable for sharpening all types of blades, including ceramics. However, it is important to note that this stone requires a certain level of skill to use effectively.

Conclusion

Professional knife sharpeners are an essential tool for any home cook or professional chef. With the right knowledge, you can find a sharpener that will keep your knives sharp and in good condition.

When shopping for a professional knife sharpener, consider the type of sharpener, blade material, angle setting, size and weight, and price. It's also important to choose a reputable brand and to read customer reviews before making a purchase.

With the right professional knife sharpener, you can keep your knives sharp and in top condition for years to come.