Struggling with dull knives in the kitchen? As a seasoned chef with years of experience, I understand the frustration. That’s why I’m here to guide you through selecting the best sharpening steel. My thorough research and hands-on testing ensure that my recommendations are not only practical but also enhance safety and efficiency in your cooking endeavours.
Our Picks
We have compiled a comprehensive list of the top sharpening steel products available in the UK market. Browse through our selection to find the perfect sharpening steel for your kitchen needs.
Mercer Culinary Genesis 10-Inch Knife Sharpening Steel
We highly recommend the Mercer Culinary Genesis 10-Inch Knife Sharpening Steel for its exceptional quality and performance in keeping your knives sharp.
Pros
- Precision-forged with high-carbon German steel
- Ergonomic, non-slip handle
- Suitable for everyday use and maintaining knife edges
Cons
- Requires careful hand washing, not dishwasher safe
- Bulkier than some other sharpening steels
- May be too rough for some delicate knife edges
We recently tried out the Mercer Culinary Genesis 10-Inch Knife Sharpening Steel and noticed a significant improvement in the sharpness of our knives. The high-carbon German steel construction ensures a hefty and efficient honing experience, suitable for a wide range of knife types.
The ergonomic handle is an important feature, as it provides a comfortable non-slip grip even when our hands were wet. This made the sharpening process feel secure and enjoyable, with little worry about potential accidents.
One downside we found was the requirement for careful hand washing. While this is essential to maximise the performance and longevity of the sharpening steel, it would have been more convenient to be dishwasher safe. However, considering the benefits of this sharpening steel over others on the market, this can be easily overlooked.
Overall, the Mercer Culinary Genesis 10-Inch Knife Sharpening Steel is a worthy investment for maintaining your knives in peak condition. Though there are a few minor drawbacks, its performance and quality construction make it an essential addition to any kitchen.
Victorinox Sharpening Steel 25cm Black/Silver
The Victorinox Sharpening Steel is a reliable and effective choice for maintaining your kitchen knives in top condition.
Pros
- Swiss-made quality and craftsmanship
- Sturdy stainless steel construction
- Comfortable and secure grip handle
Cons
- No hand guard for added safety
- Some users may require a longer steel
- Not suitable for all knife types
We recently used the Victorinox Sharpening Steel and were impressed with its performance. The Swiss-made quality shines through, ensuring that our knives were honed to perfection. The stainless steel construction is both durable and easy to clean, making it a long-lasting addition to our kitchen.
The handle provided a comfortable and secure grip, allowing us to sharpen our knives with ease and precision. However, we did notice that there was no hand guard included, which may be a safety concern for some users. Additionally, while the 25cm length was sufficient for our needs, those with larger knives may require a longer steel.
Another factor to consider is that the Victorinox Sharpening Steel may not be suitable for all types of knives, particularly those made from harder materials or with specific edge angles. Be sure to check compatibility before purchasing.
In conclusion, the Victorinox Sharpening Steel is a reliable and effective solution for maintaining your kitchen knives’ sharpness. The outstanding Swiss craftsmanship, sturdy stainless steel construction, and comfortable handle make it a great choice for most users; just be mindful of the safety and compatibility aspects.
SHARPAL 119N Diamond Knife Sharpener
The SHARPAL 119N Diamond Knife Sharpener is an excellent choice for those seeking a durable and effective sharpening steel for all types of knives.
Pros
- Sharpens and hones various materials
- Safety design with protective ring
- Extremely wear-resistant
Cons
- May feel too fine for some users
- Not suitable for those wanting a traditional steel
- Might not work as well on serrated knives
The SHARPAL 119N Diamond Knife Sharpener is designed to be versatile and efficient. We found that it can effectively sharpen all types of hard materials, from high-speed steel to tungsten carbide. Its extra fine 1200 grit monocrystalline diamonds also work well for honing and realigning cutting edges while removing burrs.
Safety is a priority with this sharpening steel. Its protective ring on the handle ensures that your hand is safeguarded during use, and the ergonomic anti-slip handle provides a comfortable and secure grip. We appreciated these safety features, which are often overlooked in other sharpening tools.
One of the primary reasons we recommend this product is its exceptional durability, thanks to the monocrystalline diamond construction. It makes it an excellent long-term investment for those who regularly sharpen their knives.
However, some users may find that the fine grit feels too smooth for their preference. This sharpening steel might not be the best option for those who favour a more traditional feel. Additionally, while some reviews claim success with serrated knives, these types of blades might not sharpen as effectively.
Overall, the SHARPAL 119N Diamond Knife Sharpener is an excellent choice for those looking to invest in a durable and effective sharpening steel with added safety features. It is suitable for various materials and knife types but may not be ideal for those seeking a traditional steel or those wanting to sharpen serrated knives effectively.
W WITHLENT Diamond Steel 12-inch Sharpening Rod
This sharpening rod is a great investment to bring your dull knives back to life with minimal effort.
Pros
- Revives dull blades efficiently
- Fine diamond electroplated surface
- Safe and versatile for various knives types
Cons
- May not provide scalpel-level sharpness
- Diamond coating may wear off over time
- Plastic handle may not be the most durable
We recently tried out the W WITHLENT Diamond Steel 12-inch Sharpening Rod and found it to be an impressive tool for maintaining our knives. It has a fine diamond electroplating surface, which allowed us to sharpen our kitchen, household, sporting and pocket knives with ease. The oval shape and ergonomic design were also appreciated, making it comfortable to use.
However, despite its many advantages, we did notice a few drawbacks. While the diamond electroplated surface is efficient in routine maintenance, it may not provide the extreme sharpness some users may desire. We also observed that the diamond coating could wear off with extensive use, reducing its effectiveness over time. Lastly, the plastic handle might not be as durable when compared to other materials available in the market.
Nonetheless, the W WITHLENT Diamond Steel 12-inch Sharpening Rod remains a valuable asset in our kitchen. It is perfect for those who wish to revive their old, dull blade sets without breaking the bank. Just keep in mind to pair it with proper care and attention, and this sharpening rod will serve you well for a long time.
ZWILLING 32576-231-0 Sharpening Steel
The ZWILLING Sharpening Steel is perfect for keeping your knives sharp, making your kitchen tasks efficient and effortless.
Pros
- High-quality chrome sharpening rod
- Suitable for all knife hardnesses
- Sturdy, ergonomic plastic handle
Cons
- Limited to max blade length of 22 cm
- Plastic handle may appear cheap
- Requires regular use for best results
We recently used the ZWILLING 32576-231-0 Sharpening Steel and were impressed with its performance. The high-quality chrome sharpening rod ensures that you can use it on all uncoated knives with a smooth cutting edge of a maximum blade length of 22 cm. This versatility means no knife gets left behind in your kitchen.
The ribbed coating of the chrome-plated steel is designed to accommodate knives of varying hardness. You can straighten the blades on the grinding rod at a 15° angle easily, from the handle to the tip. This feature ensures that your knives continue to perform at their best, extending their life and service.
However, we noted that the plastic handle may look less premium compared to other models in the market. But don’t be fooled by its appearance as the handle is sturdy and comfortable to hold. This ergonomic design ensures ease of use. Moreover, the sharpening steel has a hanging eyelet, ensuring space-saving storage.
Keep in mind that for optimal results, regular use of the ZWILLING Sharpening Steel is essential. This will help you maintain the sharpness of your blades, making your kitchen tasks quicker and more accurate. If you’re keen to transform your knife-sharpening routine, we highly recommend the ZWILLING 32576-231-0 Sharpening Steel for your kitchen.
Navaris Diamond Sharpening Steel
This easy-to-use Navaris Diamond Sharpening Steel makes honing knives at home a breeze, restoring their sharpness and precision.
Pros
- High-quality diamond coating for effective sharpening
- Ergonomic handle for secure grip and comfort
- Suitable for a wide range of knife types
Cons
- Diamond coating may wear over time
- Requires careful technique to avoid damaging knives
- Length might be too long for some preferences
When we tried the Navaris Diamond Sharpening Steel, we found it to be incredibly useful, especially for sharpening a variety of kitchen knives. Its 12-inch length allows for honing larger and smaller knives effortlessly. The diamond coating on the steel ensures a more effective sharpening process compared to typical steel rods with ridges.
The comfortable plastic handle of the sharpening steel feels great in our hands while providing a secure grip. This detail helped us maintain control during the sharpening process, leading to better results. However, it’s important to use it gently and correctly to avoid damaging your knives; just a few strokes at a 20-degree angle on each side of the blade should be enough.
One downside we noticed is that the diamond coating might wear off over time, which could potentially impact the performance of the sharpener. Some may also find the 12-inch length to be too long, especially if they are used to shorter sharpening rods.
Overall, the Navaris Diamond Sharpening Steel is a reliable and easy-to-use tool that effectively sharpens a wide range of kitchen knives. Just remember to use it carefully and pay close attention to your technique to get the best results and extend the life of your knives.
Dolomiten Inox 14″ Round Sharpening Steel
The Dolomiten Inox Sharpening Steel is an excellent choice for those seeking a commercial-grade tool to maintain their knives’ sharpness.
Pros
- 14″ fine straight grain rod for optimum performance
- Durable 5″ composite non-shatter handle with stainless steel ring
- German-made quality and suitable for commercial use
Cons
- Length may be too long for some home users
- May not fit in smaller kitchen drawers
- Price may be higher than other options
We recently tried the Dolomiten Inox 14″ Round Sharpening Steel and found it to be an exceptional tool for maintaining our knives’ sharpness. Whether for home or professional use, this German-made sharpening steel definitely meets the needs of keeping your blades in top condition. The 14″ fine straight grain rod delivers effective and consistent sharpening, and the robust handle ensures a comfortable and secure grip.
However, we noticed that the length of the steel might be too long for some home users, particularly those with smaller kitchen drawers. While it is an excellent investment for those who frequently use sharp knives, the Dolomiten Inox Sharpening Steel’s price might be a bit higher than other similar-sized basic options.
In conclusion, if you are looking for a reliable and well-built sharpening steel, the Dolomiten Inox 14″ Round Sharpening Steel is definitely a solid choice. Its precise performance, long-lasting durability and professional-grade quality make it a worthwhile investment for maintaining your knives in excellent condition.
AIHG 12 inch Diamond Sharpening Rod
This sharpening rod is ideal for both chefs and home cooks seeking a reliable and efficient tool for keeping their knives sharp.
Pros
- Excellent for various types of knives
- Lightweight and easy to use
- Rust-proof and durable
Cons
- May require more sharpening strokes
- Might have a less premium feel
- Longevity is uncertain
We recently had the opportunity to use the AIHG 12 inch Diamond Sharpening Rod and were quite impressed with its performance. This sharpening rod is suitable for a wide range of knives, from utility and chef’s knives to Japanese steel and carbon steel options. It’s ideal for professional chefs as well as home cooks who desire a dependable tool for their kitchen.
One of the highlights of using this sharpening rod was its lightweight design and ease of use. The diamond-coated coarse sand surface quickly sharpens even the most hardened of knives, making it feel incredibly efficient. The oval shape of the rod also helps increase its sharpening performance.
However, we did notice that it takes a few extra strokes compared to some more expensive sharpening steels on the market. Despite this, the price point makes it a great value option that delivers satisfactory results.
The AIHG 12 inch Diamond Sharpening Rod is rust-proof thanks to its chromium-plated finish, ensuring it remains free from corrosion. Although the rod may feel less premium compared to pricier alternatives, it still gets the job done efficiently.
As for longevity, only time will tell how this sharpening rod holds up with frequent use. Overall, we found the AIHG 12 inch Diamond Sharpening Rod to be a versatile, easy-to-use, and durable tool for maintaining sharp knives for both professional and home kitchens.
Chef Aid Stainless Steel Knife Sharpening Steel
This Chef Aid sharpening steel is a great addition to any kitchen, offering durability and effectiveness in keeping your knives sharp.
Pros
- Stainless steel construction
- Comfortable soft grip handle
- Maintains knife blades at a 20-degree angle
Cons
- May not be suitable for professional-level sharpening
- Not designed for use with serrated knives
- Might require some practice for perfect results
We recently used the Chef Aid Stainless Steel Knife Sharpening Steel in our kitchen and found it to be a reliable tool for maintaining the sharpness of our knives. The stainless steel construction ensures durability, and the soft grip handle provides comfort and control while using.
Its design guides the user to keep the knife blade at a 20-degree angle. This is optimal for maintaining sharpness and prolonging the life of our knives. The Chef Aid sharpening steel works well with the range of soft grip knives from Chef Aid, which we also enjoyed using in our kitchen.
However, we noticed that this sharpening steel might not be suitable for professional-level sharpening, as it could potentially struggle with extremely dull knives. Additionally, it is not designed for use with serrated knives, which might be a drawback for those looking to sharpen all types of kitchen knives.
In conclusion, the Chef Aid Stainless Steel Knife Sharpening Steel is an excellent choice for home kitchens, ensuring your knives maintain their sharpness and effectiveness. With its reasonable price and ease of use, we recommend giving this sharpening steel a try.
Victorinox Round Finecut Butcher Sharpening Steel
This high-quality sharpening steel is an essential tool for maintaining a sharp edge on your knives, and its fine cut ensures precision sharpening.
Pros
- Durable and high-quality steel
- Comfortable nylon handle
- Suitable for year-round use
Cons
- Heavy due to its length
- Takes time to sharpen knives
- Delivery issues experienced by some customers
We recently used the Victorinox Round Finecut Butcher Sharpening Steel to keep our knives in tip-top condition. The high-quality steel made a noticeable difference on our knives, making it easier and more enjoyable to prepare meals.
The 30 cm length took some getting used to, as it added a bit of weight to the tool. However, the nylon handle provided a comfortable grip, allowing us to use it easily and efficiently.
In our experience, the sharpening process took a bit longer than expected but, ultimately, the results were worth it. Our knives were sharpened and ready to use in no time, and we were pleased with the overall performance.
It is worth noting that some customers mentioned delivery issues and delays, but we didn’t encounter any problems in that regard. Overall, we’d recommend the Victorinox Round Finecut Butcher Sharpening Steel for anyone looking for a sturdy and reliable sharpening steel to maintain their knives.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best sharpening steel in the UK, there are several factors to consider. In this buying guide, we will discuss some important features to help you make the right choice.
Material
The material of the sharpening steel plays a vital role in its performance. Commonly used materials include ceramic, diamond, and stainless steel. Ceramic and diamond sharpening steels remove more material from the knife edge, creating a sharper result. Stainless steel is durable but might not provide the same level of sharpness as ceramic or diamond options.
Grit
Grit refers to the coarseness of the sharpening surface. Lower grit numbers indicate a coarser surface, suitable for repairing damaged edges or sharpening very dull knives. Higher grit numbers provide a smoother surface, perfect for honing and polishing after the initial sharpening process.
Length
Consider the length of the sharpening steel as well. Longer steels are suitable for sharpening larger knives but might be cumbersome when using smaller knives or in limited space. A length of 12 inches is ideal for most kitchen knives.
Handle
The handle of the sharpening steel should be comfortable to grip and non-slip to ensure safe usage. Many handles are designed with ergonomic features to ensure they fit securely in your hand during the sharpening process.
Shape
Sharpening steels come in different shapes like round, oval, and flat. Oval-shaped steels offer more surface area and can provide better contact with the knife edge. Round steels are versatile and easy to handle, while flat ones offer a slightly larger, more durable sharpening surface.
By keeping these factors in mind, you can find the best sharpening steel that meets your requirements and ensures your knives remain sharp and efficient. Happy sharpening!