10 Best Sharpening Steel For Knives 2025 in the United States

The Dalstrong Honing Rod from the Gladiator Series Elite is a 10-inch kitchen tool designed to keep your knives in peak condition. Made from high-carbon stainless steel, it is stain-resistant and offers durability, making it a reliable choice for professional kitchens. The rod features a G10 Garolite handle, known for its solid grip and ergonomic design, ensuring comfort and safety during use. The handle is also laminated and polished for a sanitary build, which is a significant plus in maintaining hygiene standards.

With its 10-inch length, this honing steel is versatile enough for most knife sizes without being cumbersome. The tiny grooves along the rod's surface help in keeping the knife edges straight and well-aligned. The attractively designed bolster provides additional hand protection, allowing you to use the full length of the steel safely. Another notable feature is its NSF certification, indicating it meets high standards for public health protection.

It is worth noting that the honing rod is extra fine in grit, which is excellent for maintaining an already sharp edge but might not be as effective for sharpening very dull knives. Additionally, while the product is marketed towards professional use, it can also be a valuable tool for home cooks who frequently use their knives. The weight of the item, at 1 pound, adds to its stability but may be on the heavier side for some users. The Dalstrong Honing Rod is a durable, comfortable, and efficient tool for keeping your knives sharp, though it might not be the best option for very dull blades.

The Sharpeak Ceramic Sharpening Steel stands out for its effective material and thoughtful design. Made from ceramic, the rod is significantly harder than steel, providing excellent sharpening for knives, even those made from very hard materials which regular steel sharpeners struggle with. The fine 3000 grit ceramic ensures a polished and razor-sharp finish, perfect for refining the edge of your knives.

Additionally, the ceramic material is non-toxic, odorless, and resistant to rust, which adds to its longevity and ease of maintenance. The built-in 20-degree angle guides are a notable feature, offering consistent and accurate sharpening angles, making the process straightforward even for those new to knife sharpening. Safety is also prioritized with a hexagonal hand guard that prevents the rod from rolling and a removable rubber cap to protect surfaces and reduce chipping if dropped.

The rod length is clearly specified as 12 inches, excluding the handle, which contributes to its versatility in sharpening various knife sizes. Its total length including the handle is 17.5 inches, making it suitable for both small and large knives. The product is backed by a 3-year warranty and strong after-sale service, which speaks to the brand’s confidence in their offering. The item’s weight of 8.1 ounces might be slightly heavy for some users, and its origin from China may be a consideration for those preferring locally manufactured goods.