What You Need to Know Before Investing in a Knife Sharpener

A sharp knife is an essential tool in any kitchen, and it can make all the difference in your cooking experience. It is why professional chefs invest in a first-class knife sharpener.

But before you invest in one, you should learn more about it to make the most out of your purchase. 

The Benefits of a Sharp Knife 

A sharp knife is a cook's best friend. You can quickly chop, slice, and dice your ingredients with a sharp knife, making cooking a breeze.

There are many benefits of having a sharp knife in your kitchen. First, it is much safer to use than a dull one. With the latter, you are more likely to slip and cut yourself. On the other hand, the former is less likely to drop and is much easier to control.

Second, a sharp knife will make your cooking faster and easier. With a dull knife, you will have to saw back and forth to chop your ingredients, which can be time-consuming and frustrating. On the other hand, a sharp one can easily slice through your ingredients, making your cooking quicker and easier.

Third, a sharp knife will help you to create beautiful, evenly-sliced food. If you are slicing vegetables or meat, it will give you clean, even slices that look great on a plate. With a dull one, on the other hand, you are likely to end up with uneven, ragged cuts.

Finally, a sharp knife is more enjoyable to use. Cooking can be a relaxing and therapeutic experience, and using one can add to that experience. With a dull knife, cooking can be a frustrating and tedious task. 

How Often Should You Sharpen Your Knives

Investing in a knife sharpener is wise because you need to sharpen your knives every three to four months on average. This simple kitchen tool can help keep your blades in tip-top condition so that they can continue to make precision cuts every time you use them.

Sure, you could sharpen your knives without a sharpener, but it will not be as effective, and it will take much longer. This kitchen tool will ensure that your blades are always ready to go when needed.

It is a relatively inexpensive kitchen gadget, so it is worth the investment. So if you want to keep your knives in peak condition, pick up a knife sharpener and use it regularly.

At Which Angle Should You Sharpen Your Knives

You can efficiently sharpen Western knives at 20 degrees, but Japanese knives should be sharpened at 15 degrees. The difference in angle is because Western knives are typically made of softer steel, while Japanese knives are made of harder steel. Thus, the more rigid steel of Japanese knives can handle a sharper angle without becoming damaged.

How to Sharpen Knives Correctly?

Knowing how to sharpen knives correctly to maintain their edge and prolong their lifespan is essential. While there are many ways to sharpen a knife, using a knife sharpener is the most effective and straightforward method. There are a few pointers when doing this task:

1. Always use a sharpener appropriate for the knife you are sharpening.
2. Be sure to maintain the correct angle while sharpening. As mentioned, a 20-degree angle is ideal for most Western knives.
3. Apply even pressure while sharpening. Doing this will help to create a consistent edge.
4. Sharpen both sides of the blade evenly.
5. Wipe the blade clean after sharpening.

Conclusion

A knife sharpener is an essential tool for any kitchen. It helps keep your knives in top condition and makes food preparation easier. A variety of sharpeners are available, so choose one that best suits your needs. With proper care and regular sharpening, your knives will last many years.

If you want a high-quality knife sharpener, you should check out our collection at Bronx Homewares. We only sell first-class kitchenware. So, shop now!