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10 Best Sharpening Steels 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Professional Carbon Steel Black Knife Sharpening Steel, Black 12 Inch

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,169
Material
Length

Most important from
12150 reviews

Material
This honing rod matches the quality of more expensive options, offering great length and sturdy construction that feels durable and long-lasting.
Length
This honing rod matches the quality of more expensive options, offering great length and sturdy construction that feels durable and long-lasting.

This sharpening steel is made from carbon steel with a nickel-chrome plating, which helps keep knives sharp by maintaining their edges during regular use. At 12 inches long, it’s a practical size that works well with most kitchen knives, making it a popular choice among chefs. The ergonomic polypropylene handle offers a comfortable, secure grip and includes a hanging hole for easy storage.

Its fine grit is designed specifically for refining and maintaining dull knives but may not be the best option if you’re looking to restore severely damaged or very dull blades, as it’s more suited for honing than heavy sharpening. The steel is easy to clean with just a damp cloth, adding to its convenience. It is manufactured in China, which may be a consideration for those preferring products from other origins.

This sharpening steel provides good value and effective performance for home cooks and professionals needing regular knife upkeep.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,169
Material
Length

Most important from
12150 reviews

Material
This honing rod matches the quality of more expensive options, offering great length and sturdy construction that feels durable and long-lasting.
Length
This honing rod matches the quality of more expensive options, offering great length and sturdy construction that feels durable and long-lasting.
#3

Cutluxe Honing Rod, Sharpening Steel for Kitchen Knives – 10" Honing Steel – Ergonomic Handle Design – Artisan Series

Rating
9.9
Material
Shape
Handle

Most important from
770 reviews

Material
High-quality materials ensure durability and longevity.
Shape
Rounded edge design minimizes the risk of injury during use.
Handle
Incredibly easy to use with an ergonomic design that provides a comfortable grip.
Grit
Fine-grit surface helps realign the blade edge, extending the life of knives.

The Cutluxe Honing Rod from the Artisan Series is designed to keep your kitchen knives sharp by honing and realigning the blade edges. Crafted from German high carbon stainless steel, it promises durability and resistance to rust and corrosion. With a length of 10 inches, it can handle a variety of knife sizes effortlessly.

The ergonomic PakkaWood handle is non-slip and suitable for both right-handed and left-handed users, which adds to the convenience and comfort during use. The honing rod is extra fine in grit, making it suitable for maintaining the sharpness of your knives rather than sharpening dull blades from scratch. It is light, weighing only 1 pound, making it easy to handle without causing fatigue.

The design is visually appealing and would make a handsome addition to any kitchen or a thoughtful gift for cooking enthusiasts. However, it’s worth noting that while honing rods help maintain knife sharpness, they do not replace the need for a good sharpener to restore dull blades. The lifetime warranty against material or workmanship defects provides peace of mind for users. The Cutluxe Honing Rod is ideal for those looking to maintain their knife collection in excellent condition with minimal effort.

Rating
9.9
Material
Shape
Handle

Most important from
770 reviews

Material
High-quality materials ensure durability and longevity.
Shape
Rounded edge design minimizes the risk of injury during use.
Handle
Incredibly easy to use with an ergonomic design that provides a comfortable grip.
Grit
Fine-grit surface helps realign the blade edge, extending the life of knives.

Buying Guide for the Best Sharpening Steels

Choosing the right sharpening steel is essential for maintaining the edge and performance of your knives. A sharpening steel, also known as a honing rod, helps to realign the blade's edge, keeping it sharp and effective for cutting. When selecting a sharpening steel, consider the type of knives you have, how often you use them, and your comfort level with sharpening tools. Here are some key specifications to consider when choosing a sharpening steel.
MaterialThe material of the sharpening steel is crucial as it affects the sharpening process and the longevity of your knives. Common materials include stainless steel, ceramic, and diamond-coated steel. Stainless steel is durable and suitable for most knives, ceramic is gentler and ideal for fine edges, while diamond-coated steel is very effective for very dull or hard knives. Choose a material based on the type of knives you have and how often you need to sharpen them.
LengthThe length of the sharpening steel determines how easily you can sharpen different sizes of knives. Sharpening steels typically range from 8 to 12 inches. A longer steel (10-12 inches) is more versatile and can handle larger knives, while a shorter steel (8-10 inches) is more compact and easier to store. Consider the size of your knives and your storage space when selecting the length.
ShapeSharpening steels come in various shapes, including round, oval, and flat. Round steels are the most common and provide a consistent surface for sharpening. Oval steels offer a larger surface area, making it easier to maintain contact with the blade. Flat steels are less common but can provide more precise control. Choose a shape that feels comfortable in your hand and suits your sharpening style.
HandleThe handle of the sharpening steel is important for comfort and safety. Look for a handle that provides a secure grip and is made from a non-slip material. Some handles also have a guard to protect your hand from the blade. Consider the ergonomics of the handle and how it feels in your hand, especially if you will be using the steel frequently.
GritThe grit of the sharpening steel refers to the coarseness of the surface. Coarse grits (200-600) are suitable for very dull knives, while fine grits (1000 and above) are better for regular maintenance and honing. Medium grits (600-1000) offer a balance between sharpening and honing. Choose a grit based on the condition of your knives and how often you plan to use the steel.

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