Which knife sharpening machine is better? The best knife sharpeners

Updated: 09/18/2019 23:59:41

Expert: Laila Weiss

*Review of the best sites according to the editors. About the selection criteria. This material is subjective in nature, does not constitute an advertisement and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before purchasing, consultation with a specialist is required.

The Japanese say: “The knife contains the heart and soul of the cook.” To cook delicious dishes, you need not only skill, but also good tools - a sharp knife. With its help, you can cut any product efficiently, saving time. A dull one will only wrinkle, forcing the user to make great efforts to cut meat, poultry, vegetables, fruits, etc. There are knives on sale that do not require sharpening, but most often this is a marketing ploy. As time passes, the person who bought such an instrument notices that, like an ordinary one, it begins to become dull. We advise you not to succumb to advertising gimmicks, but to purchase a good sharpener. It will allow you to always have a sharp knife in the kitchen. There are sharpeners different types, and each has its own advantages. Since there are not a large number of knives in the home kitchen, you can choose any type of knife.

Do not confuse sharpening with editing. The first option involves cutting the metal from the blade to form a sharp edge. The second - without cutting, changes the angle of the cutting part, as a result of which even dents and other defects invisible to the eye are leveled out. Editing is done using musat and ceramic discs.

How to choose a knife sharpener

1. Varieties. There are three main categories: completely manual, mechanical and electric. Manual ones include sharpening stones, which only a professional can handle, because you need to choose the right grain size of the stone, the angle of inclination and be extremely careful in the process so as not to get hurt, and sharpeners with fixed rods located at an angle of 20 and 25 degrees, where you need to vertically move the knife, which simplifies the work. Mechanical ones include classic sharpeners with a table stand, which are compact, easy to use and safe; vacuum, with one or two sharpening zones and a special suction cup, which is used to fix it on the table; sharpeners in the form factor of brass knuckles - they are put on the hand, and despite the fact that the sharpening does not last long, due to their convenience and low cost, they are excellent for use in the countryside. Electric sharpeners are portable and compact devices that allow you to quickly and effortlessly sharpen a knife of any length and thickness. After the procedure, the tool remains sharp for a long time. If this is your priority, then choose an electric sharpener. Musat is not a sharpener; it is used to straighten the cutting edge. Used on final stage sharpening to achieve greater sharpness and increase the period during which the knife will remain sharp. Musat can be used when the tool is slightly dull to trim the blade. Since the musat does not remove metal from the blade, the service life of the knife increases significantly. In restaurants, chefs use musat dozens of times a day because the process takes just seconds.
2. Knife material. For steel knives, you need to purchase sharpeners with abrasives that are harder than the steel of the tool. It can be ceramics, diamond chips, carbides or Arkansas stone. For ceramic knives (made of black and white zirconium ceramics), only diamond-coated abrasives are suitable, since ceramics are a rather fragile material that can break if handled incorrectly.
3. Price segment. Hand sharpeners with metal discs, as well as coarse-grained bars will cost the least - 300-500 rubles. For natural and synthetic stones, the simplest electric and manual models, you will have to pay 500-3 thousand rubles. Fine-grained and two-layer combined bars, two-stage, three-stage, electric with the possibility of mechanical polishing cost between 3-10 thousand rubles. Professional devices belonging to the group of sharpening stations with diamond-coated abrasives and having three-stage sharpening will cost 10 thousand rubles or more.

Rating of the best knife sharpeners

Nomination	place	Name of product	price
Best Manual Knife Sharpeners	1		1,750 RUR
	2		891 RUR
	3		850 ₽
	4		590 ₽
The best electric knife sharpeners	1		RUB 15,590
	2		RUB 3,671
	3		2,790 ₽
The best sharpeners for knives from AliExpress	1		4,870 ₽
	2		1,350 RUR
	3		680 ₽
	4		270 ₽
	5		150 ₽

Best Manual Knife Sharpeners

In first place in the rating category is a desktop manual sharpener with abrasive made from a diamond grinding stone. It will handle sharpening effectively and quickly; you just need to place the blade in the slot with the tip pointing down, swiping it towards you several times. The sharpening angle is optimal, prevents damage to the metal blade and prevents the formation of scratches. There are three slots for different stages: preliminary, fine and coarse sharpening. This approach allows you to process even very dull knives. Frame laconic design made of stainless steel. It takes up very little space, so you can store the sharpener in drawer where spoons, forks, knives are located, then the product will always be at hand.

Advantages

• ergonomic shape;
• acceptable cost - 1650 rub.

Flaws

• not found.

The second position goes to a model of a manual sharpener with abrasive plates coated with natural diamonds and profiled ceramic plates. The product not only sharpens knives perfectly, but also secures the result so that the sharpness is maintained for a long time. To restore sharpness, it is enough to run the blade 10-15 times, first in the first slot, then in the second. The user does not have to exert much effort by pressing hard on the knife. At the bottom of the case there are six legs with rubberized pads that provide reliable fixation. The body itself has a Soft Touch coating, so when holding the sharpener with your hand, the risk of slipping is minimized.

Advantages

• the ability to sharpen serrated knives;
• protective plexiglass cover included;
• easy to disassemble for cleaning;
• plastic ergonomic handle;
• budget cost – 870 rub.

Flaws

• not found.

The third place is occupied by a manual sharpener for knives and kitchen hatchets. If you like to cook and use not only knives, but also hatchets for cutting, then this is the device you should pay attention to. The body is made of durable plastic. The user has one slot equipped with ceramic disks. Thanks to the ergonomic design, holding the sharpener in your hand during the process is easy. Users note that the sharpener makes the blade so sharp that after the procedure the knife is able to produce very thin slices. Cutting veins, cartilage, and cutting raw beet has become much easier, which was also expressed by housewives in reviews.

Advantages

• quick sharpening in half a minute;
• removable lid for easy cleaning;
• budget cost – 850 rub.

Flaws

• not found.

The fourth is a manual sharpener with metal and ceramic cutters. The design, like all analogues, is simple. The body has a comfortable ergonomic handle, and at the bottom there are rubberized inserts that prevent the device from sliding on the surface on which the sharpener is installed. The upper part with a silicone insert guarantees a comfortable hand grip without slipping. The device is equipped with two slots: for main (coarse) and final (fine) sharpening. A two-step approach to blade processing allows you to extend the life of the blade's sharpness. You can only sharpen steel knives; for ceramic ones, it is better to purchase another model. An additional block with cutters is supplied in the kit.

Advantages

• fast sharpening;
• the ability to replace blocks with the ones you need;
• fixed angle;
• budget cost – 600 rub.

Flaws

• not found.

The best electric knife sharpeners

Chef's Choice 120

In first place is an American-made electric sharpener, suitable for sharpening regular and serrated (serrated) knives. It processes the blade in three stages: in the first stage, rough sharpening occurs with diamond-coated abrasive discs, forming the first bevel; on the second - with fine-grained abrasive, a second bevel is formed; on the third, even finer ceramic abrasives grind and polish the blade, creating a third final bevel that is sharp. The user can independently choose a combination of steps to obtain different results. The sharpener can also be used for processing folding, hunting, tourist, sports, fishing and other knives.

Advantages

• power – 75 W;
• instant sharpening;
• sharpening angle control – 20 degrees.

Flaws

• high cost - 16 thousand rubles.

The second position is occupied by an electric knife sharpening device, recognized as the best in terms of quality and price. The model is much cheaper than the leader in the category, but is not inferior in quality and practicality. The case with a metal insert looks massive, so initially it seems that the device will weigh a lot, but this is not the case. The sharpener is lightweight and has a neutral design. There are rubberized inserts on the bottom so that the device does not slip on the table surface. Only knives made of stainless, alloy or carbon steel can be sharpened. Geared tools may only be processed in the polishing slot. Simple and clear instructions included.

Advantages

• synthetic and ceramic abrasives;
• suitable for sharpening different sizes knives;
• sharpening angle adjustment;
• ergonomic handle.

Flaws

• low power– 6 W;
• relatively expensive - 4600 rub.

The third place goes to the electric knife sharpener, which is distinguished by its high power. The device operates in two stages, first sharpening and then grinding the blade. The device is equipped with professional discs made of corundum and ceramics, thanks to which the device sharpens even very dull knives in a matter of minutes. Using the guides you can create the correct sharpening angle. The body is equipped with legs with suction cups that firmly fix the sharpener to the surface.

Advantages

• power – 40 W;
• easy cleaning;
• suitable for sharpening ceramic knives;
• acceptable cost - 2800 rub.

Flaws

• not found.

The best knife sharpeners from AliExpress

In first place is an electric sharpener, characterized by its versatility. The model is suitable not only for sharpening various different knives, but also for processing screwdrivers, scissors and other tools. The device has six grooves with different abrasives that provide sharpness to the blade. High power reduces processing time, allowing you to return the canvas to working condition in 1-2 minutes. For protection, the manufacturer has provided an automatic shutdown that is triggered during overheating. This protects the motor from failure. The body is made of high quality plastic. Users note that the device does not emit any foreign odors. Among most similar sharpeners, this model stands out due to its excellent results.

Advantages

• power – 60 W;
• ergonomic design.

Flaws

• relatively expensive - 4 thousand rubles.

The second line goes to the professional manual sharpener. The body of the device has a vacuum suction cup at the base, with which the device is securely attached to the surface so as not to slip off during the sharpening procedure. Users note the high sharpening speed. Abrasive stones of different grain sizes (120, 320, 600, 1500 units), attached to plastic strips, allow you to conveniently sharpen the blade. Color-coded sharpening angles (10, 15, 20, 25-30 degrees) help you navigate the work process. The device is also suitable for scissors, screwdrivers and other tools.

Advantages

• choice of sharpening angle;
• organizer bag and microfiber cloth included;
• knife fixation system;
• fixed stand;
• acceptable cost - 1300 rub.

Flaws

• requires some skill;
• It is necessary to wet the bars during sharpening.

The third position goes to a manual knife sharpener with a large base that has a rubberized insert to prevent slipping. Thanks to the ergonomic body, it fits perfectly in the palm of your hand and does not slip out during sharpening. There are four grooves on the body: two for conventional and two for Japanese asymmetric sharpening. The model is capable of processing knives of any length. Users also note that the metal sheet can have any thickness. For perfect sharpening, you need to swipe the cutting edge only 6-7 times.

Advantages

• metal and ceramic abrasives;
• fast sharpening;
• budget cost – 700 rub.

Flaws

• not found.

The fourth is a manual sharpener, which processes the blade in two stages (coarse and fine sharpening). The body is made of high quality plastic. The base has feet that prevent slipping and provide a secure fit. Thanks to its small dimensions (10 x 4.5 x 5.5 cm), the device fits comfortably in the hand, adding convenience when working. Two finger grooves are responsible for ergonomics. Suitable for processing metal knives, but for ceramic ones it is better to find another model, since this one can lead to damage to the tool if used carelessly. Most user reviews have a positive assessment of this product - people received a product of better quality than they expected.

Advantages

• abrasive discs made of stainless steel;
• budget cost – 300 rub.

Flaws

• not found.

In fifth place in the budget manual sharpener category. You can purchase it on the website for only 150 rubles. At the base of the case there is a vacuum suction cup that provides an anti-slip effect. You can attach the device not only to the table, but also to the tile. A special arrow clearly shows how to place the knives in the grooves to sharpen them right angle. Users complain that sharpening does not last long, only 2-3 days. Considering the low cost and short time required for sharpening, we recommend purchasing the product, because the device can sharpen knives at least every day.

Advantages

• fast speed sharpening;
• strong fixation.

Flaws

• chemical smell.

Attention! This rating is subjective in nature, is not an advertisement and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before purchasing, consultation with a specialist is required.

With this note, I would like to begin a series of materials on the site dedicated to one of the most pressing topics in the Russian knife world - knife sharpening skills for beginners.

We will include as beginners not only those who have just become interested in the topic of knives and bought their first good pocket or kitchen knife, but also many people who cannot afford full hours of time spent sharpening knives for various reasons, but to sharp knives I'm not indifferent either.

Nowadays there are a lot of materials available on the Internet on the topic of sharpening knives, but many of them are quite heavy to study and do not briefly answer the simple everyday question of “what and how.” Therefore, I will try to answer the most important questions on one page. FAQ problems that arise among numerous visitors to Basselard stores.
The first question about sharpening that requires a clear answer is the question “why?” It may sound approximately like this:

- Why do I need such sharp knives, I’ll cut myself with them?

To begin with, we note that a good sharp knife in the kitchen or in nature, and in general in everyday life, is the thing that increases the “quality of life” of a person. A familiar term, isn't it? Opening a package with a knife is much easier than tearing it with your teeth, and cutting sausage and bread is much easier with a sharp knife than a dull one. Moreover, it is much easier to cut yourself with a dull knife, because... when working with it, you have to put in more effort and the likelihood that it will slip or twist out of your hand is much higher. Roughly speaking, you need to put pressure on the “dumb piece of hardware” and it needs to be controlled. A sharp knife, oddly enough, on the contrary, protects against injury, since it makes it possible to make easier and more precise movements and spend less effort and get less tired. But this is exactly what a busy modern person needs, for whom everything falls out of hand in the evening from fatigue.

Conclusion one: sharp knives will do everything for you, and you just have to get used to them!

- Why do I need a good sharpener if I don’t have normal knives?

In fact, choosing a quality sharpening device has nothing to do with what knives you already have. If you have a knife, it must be sharp! A good sharpener makes any knife sharp, just as a bad one can ruin both an expensive knife and a cheap one. An imperfect sharpening method dooms you to use knives that constantly become dull, and a bad sharpener will not give you the opportunity to sharpen them satisfactorily. In turn, both a cheap and an expensive knife will be happy to be sharpened with a good device. A good sharpener will allow you to get the most out of even a bad knife!

This is the main argument for buying a good sharpening device in any case.

Let me illustrate what was said above. simple example from my own practice.

I apologize in advance for the quality of the photos, since the “life example” was captured impromptu.
One evening I had to cut balyk for dinner. Since this is almost half-raw meat, cutting it thinly and evenly is a difficult task. The best knife in my, oddly enough, rather proletarian kitchen arsenal, was a new Italian knife from the famous company Due Cigni (yellow handle in the photo). Excellent high slopes and a fine knife edge, with good quality steel, promised an excellent cut in in this case and of course I chose him. The factory sharpening on it was still pretty good, even though it had been in use for quite some time. After cutting the balyk a little, I realized that despite everything described, this knife did not cut thinly and constantly crushed the product. This fact, I must admit, puzzled me. I decided to record what happened next in a photo.

In general, I immediately realized that this was probably due to the peculiarities of sharpening. I note that factory sharpening on most knives is usually done in an aggressive, but rather rough manner. Moreover, the manufacturer is forced to sharpen new knives at a rather large angle in order to protect the cutting edge from possible illiterate handling.

To replace the factory-sharpened knife, I took a simple Chinese-made knife made of unknown steel, which I had once bought in a supermarket (green handle in the photo). With this knife I trained my initial skills in using Japanese “water” sharpening stones, which are now becoming increasingly popular among us. Their distinctive feature is uniformity and non-aggressive sharpening, which allows you to sharpen knives at a slight angle and obtain an even, smooth cutting edge.

This knife did an excellent job of cutting meat, slicing quite easily and thinly. The advantage of sharpening on a water stone turned out to be obvious.

Further, experimenting, I decided to take a tourist knife (black handle in the photo), not intended for kitchen use, thicker than both previous ones, but also sharpened on water stones. Imagine my surprise when the tourist knife coped with thin slicing of meat not much worse than the well-sharpened “Chinese” mentioned above.

Now I invite the reader to look at the cutting edges of the used knives.

It is obvious that the new Italian Due Cigni was sharpened using the same rather coarse abrasive that was used to polish its escapements.

The cutting edge of the Chinese knife is brought together in the shape of a small lens and not very carefully, since I cannot yet boast of excellent sharpening skills. But at the same time, it is still thinner and smoother than that of the Italian.

The cutting edge of a tourist knife ( last photo) was bred and sharpened on water stones by a master and has a fairly large angle, which is necessary specifically for its intended use.

Among these rather different knives, those that did not skimp on sharpening managed the difficult task of thinly slicing meat. Of course, the “Chinese” is not able to maintain its edge for a long time, like its Italian competitor. But with poor sharpening, all the advantages of a good knife were lost.

It is quite obvious that a well-sharpened inexpensive knife is much better than a cheap and dull one! In turn, buying good knives is pointless without ensuring high-quality sharpening.

In conclusion, of course, I would like to invite dear readers to the Basselard stores, where you can choose knives and sharpeners for any budget and in any combination. For those who decide to take a deeper dive into sharpening issues, I recommend reading Sergei Mitin’s wonderful book, which you can also find here.

Terentyev Ilya

How to choose a knife

As the Japanese say: “The knife contains the heart and soul of the cook.”

Throughout the history of mankind, the knife has become the most common tool on earth. Kitchen, hunting, combat, multitools, special, work, souvenir, tourist and many other types, and each of them helps a person survive and master nature.

Along with the knife, as an integral part and dyad, there is always a sharpener - without it, the knife will eventually turn into a useless piece of iron. It would seem that sharpening is such a simple process. In fact, it requires patience, accuracy, and most importantly, a sharpening tool, depending on the type of knife.

We will look at what types of sharpening tools there are and how they differ from each other.

Of all the huge number of knives in the world, most of them are made for use in the kitchen. There are several hundred types of traditional Japanese cuisine alone; Europeans, however, are not far behind them in this regard. In every cafe or restaurant you can see a universal, bread, vegetable, peeling and slicing, meat, fillet, bone cutter, chef's, cheese, tomato, hatchet and many others. In the home kitchen, as a rule, everything is much simpler, but you can find several different knives even there.

Each type of knife has its own specific shape, weight, and dimensions. These characteristics have been optimized for the products and materials being cut and have been proven over several thousand years of use. However, they continue to improve even in our time.

Specific appearance A knife from different craftsmen or companies will, of course, be different, but similar features, by which one can immediately determine its functional purpose, will be preserved when manufactured in different countries.

Sharpening occurs in stages, the number of which varies and depends on the degree of residual sharpness of the knife. First, a cutting edge is formed with a coarse abrasive (and sometimes even bevels are made), then it is processed with a fine abrasive to the required smoothness and then (not always and not for all knives) the leads are polished.

The higher the sharpening skill, the longer the knife will retain its cutting properties.

Sharpening materials

The material from which the knife is made is of great importance for sharpening knives.

The vast majority of blades are made of steel - an alloy of iron and carbon, where the latter is from half to two percent (if less, it will be tin, and if more, cast iron). Its properties are determined both by the amount of carbon in the composition and by the presence of special alloying additives (nickel, manganese, chromium, silicon, vanadium, molybdenum, tungsten), which give the steel hardness, strength, corrosion resistance, and wear resistance.

Depending on the type of additives used, their volume ratio and the method of subsequent heat treatment several hundred are smelted various brands steel with unique properties. One of these properties is hardness - it provides the blade with a combination of strength and cutting properties. So soft grades (52-54 units on the Rockwell scale) bend well, but require frequent editing, while hard grades (55-58 HRC) can be sharpened sharper and retain their cutting properties longer, but are very afraid of bending and impacts on hard obstacles, such like bone, and also require special skills when sharpening.

The manner of working with a knife and the cutting technique of European and Asian chefs are fundamentally different, therefore, historically, European kitchen knives were made of soft brands, and Japanese ones were made of hard ones.

Steel knives can only be sharpened with abrasives that are harder than the steel of the knife itself. The most popular of them are: diamond chips, carbides, ceramics, Arkansas stone.

By historical standards, ceramic knives began to come into use quite recently. Any steel, even with anti-corrosion additives, sooner or later begins to chemical reactions with products that develop a bitter taste and unpleasant odor.

Knives made of zirconium ceramics (white and black) do not have this drawback and at the same time they have incredible sharpness and durability of the cutting edge. However, they are quite fragile and can break if dropped or if they hit a bone or even frozen food. Ceramic knives can only be sharpened with diamond-coated abrasives.

Sharpening angles

Depending on the purpose of the knife, sharpening the edges can be done in different ways.

Their appearance determines the properties, quality and even the very possibility of cutting in different materials- so one shape of edges cuts better, another cuts, some are easier to manufacture, and some retain their sharpness longer.

The smaller the sharpening angle, the sharper the knife will be, however, the cutting edge will crumble faster. To make it strong enough, the sharpening angle must be larger, but this will reduce the sharpness of the cutting part. Because of these very inconvenient alternatives, sharpening is sometimes performed in two or even three stages with microfeeds, and in the extreme, smooth lens-shaped.

Overwhelming majority kitchen knives In order to reduce cost, it was sharpened with a conventional symmetrical wedge.

Changing the angle of inclination when sharpening on a whetstone does not present any difficulties - the main thing is to be able to keep the new value constant. Holding it on sharpeners seems to be an extremely difficult task; only advanced and expensive devices can fix the blade and even set the desired angle.

If long-term sharpness of the cutting edge and durability of the knife are required, then sharpening stones should be chosen as a sharpening tool. They come in different grain sizes. The sharpening process is sequential - the stones replace each other, moving from coarser to finer ones.

A coarse stone is used when the knife is severely dull or damaged and needs to be restored or a new edge formed.

The medium-grain stone smoothes out rough scratches.

Fine-grained sharpens precisely.

Micro-grain polishes to a mirror shine (plus such polishing provides protection against corrosion).

The sharpening angle on stones is initially set using special auxiliary devices for fixing the angle (for example, an apexoid), and after some training, by eye. They are usually made in the form of bars or sharpening sticks.

If effortless sharpening at a very high speed is required, and razor sharp and durability are secondary, then a mechanical model should be chosen as a tool. The sharpening angle in such devices is fixed (if you hold the knife vertically) and corresponds to most wedge-shaped cutting edges of low-price knives.

They will not be able to sharpen with high quality and the knife will quickly become dull again, since the stationary bars remove the layer along the cutting edge along, and not at an angle, but for everyday cutting of the usual amount of food for a family, such sharpness will be quite enough. This is a choice for those who have a knife as a consumable, who have no respect for it and the resulting edge quality is quite acceptable.

Currently, manual roller sharpening with rotating ceramic discs is becoming widespread. These models already grind the edge at an angle and thus do not damage the blade, which in turn leads to long-term use without sharpening.

- electric knife

Those who have a large collection of high-quality, expensive knives, or those who are interested in sharpening durability but have no desire or ability to tinker with water stones, should choose an electric knife as a tool. Such a device consists of an electric motor, several abrasive wheels and the body, which at the same time serves as a guide for fixing the sharpening angle.

Electric sharpeners, unlike sharpening machines, have lower speeds and do not overheat the edge, and they are also capable of high-quality sharpening of a blade of any length and thickness. The sharpening procedure, depending on the condition of the cutting part, lasts from several seconds to several minutes. Anyone can use them, regardless of experience, and training only takes a couple of minutes.

Depending on the level of technical equipment, the devices can have several levels of processing in accordance with the number of abrasives. So the most advanced ones have stages of sharpening, finishing and polishing; you just need to move the knife into the appropriate slot on the device. Less equipped models have two stages of processing and, most importantly, do not fix the angle and constant pressure along the entire length of the blade. Electric sharpeners are capable of processing very dull, heavily damaged and particularly hard blades, and a large number of them in a row.

No physical effort is required during operation.

Serrated knives (with a wave surface or a saw), scissors, screwdrivers and other household tools can be sharpened either manually with special whetstones or on multifunctional sharpeners. An indication of this possibility will be indicated by pictograms on the device body.

Price range

(the division is very arbitrary)

- up to 500 rub. - coarse-grained corundum sharpening stones, simple hand sharpeners with metal disks, metal grinding stones.

- 500 - 3,000 rub. - synthetic and natural ceramic stones, ceramic and diamond-coated grinders, manual and simple electric sharpeners with ceramic discs and the ability to sharpen serrated knives, scissors, screwdrivers, but, as a rule, without fixing the angle of the cutting edge. Also in this group, hybrids (sharpeners-can openers, etc.) are beginning to appear.

3,000 - 10,000 rub. - sharpening stones of small and very fine grain (high grit), combined two-layer sharpening stones, stones with sharpening devices, two-stage electric sharpeners or combined three-stage ones with mechanical polishing.

From 10,000 rub. - professional three-stage low-speed sharpening stations with diamond abrasives or mini-belt grinders with a set of belts for continuous processing of knives in catering and service companies. That is, devices that allow you to very quickly sharpen a knife according to all the rules.

They have the functions of grinding and polishing; thanks to special clamps on springs, they ensure uniform pressure and the same angle of the blade along the entire length of the cutting edge. Sharpeners in this group allow you to sharpen the entire edge right down to the handle or bolster. Their sharpening module is most often removable and can be cleaned in the dishwasher. As a rule, devices in this group contain detailed, proven user manuals with a large number of visual drawings and examples.

The cost of the sharpener should correspond to the price of the knives used

P.S.

Over the course of several thousand years, the sharpening process itself has turned into a sacred procedure, overgrown with many legends and myths. It is believed that not even the most expensive computerized electric knife can compare with the hand of a real master. The secrets of sharpening are passed down from generation to generation. You can spend your entire life learning all the nuances of craftsmanship. The amount of collective experience presented in the literature on this topic has long exceeded the ability of an individual to master the entire amount of information presented. However, this will not prevent any person unfamiliar even with the basics of sharpening from trying different ways and types, so that you can subsequently choose the most convenient and effective one and, perhaps, someday become a real guru in this matter.

Even the most expensive branded knife becomes dull over time, and as a result, it has to be sharpened. You can do this in a workshop or yourself if you have a special sharpener at home. Such devices are sold in regular stores and on the Internet, but the easiest way is to buy them on AliExpress, where they are much cheaper. You just need to decide for what purpose you are purchasing the tool, because there are no universal models. On the Chinese trading platform there are the following options:

• manual mechanical sharpeners - suitable for kitchen knives, they sharpen the blade quickly, but after that the knife becomes dull just as quickly;
• pocket sharpeners for tourists - compact mechanical models that are convenient to take on a hike;
• whetstones are effective tools that require experience with the whetstone;
• Must for straightening knife blades - carefully aligns the cutting edge, resembling a file in shape;
• electric sharpeners - they work quickly and efficiently, automatically determine the sharpening angle, but are expensive;
• sharpening systems with and without fixing the blade - machines in which you can set the desired angle.

The rating includes models from a variety of Chinese manufacturers. They differ not only in the principle of operation, but also in the type of abrasive materials. All these devices received good feedback from real users. They are united by the best technical characteristics, excellent brand reputation and high efficiency work.

The best classic knife sharpeners from AliExpress

The category presents the best broaching type mechanical tools. They are two bars or plates, set at a certain angle in relation to each other and hidden in a plastic case. Such models are intended only for blades sharpened at a certain angle, for example, for kitchen knives. The mechanism is not suitable for hunting and tourist blades.

4 RSCHEF S1602

Universal option for knives and scissors
Price on AliExpress: from 898 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.7

The universal sharpener RSCHEF S1602 will help maintain the sharpness of the cutting edge of knives and scissors; it can cope with tools of any size. Metal and ceramic discs are used as abrasive surfaces. Blades can be sharpened in two stages - rough processing and fine grinding. This model has three slots for knives and one for scissors. The body has a rubberized handle and backing. Thanks to these features, the sharpener not only looks stylish, but also exhibits excellent stability.

The seller claims that you can sharpen knives in 5-6 movements, but in reality this figure needs to be multiplied by at least 5. Users mention another drawback in reviews - the kit does not include instructions. But even without it, you can understand which slots are intended for which tools.

3 Taidea T1202

Best speed and ease of sharpening
Price on AliExpress: from 1162 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.7

Taidea T1202 is a high-quality item that will be appropriate not only in the kitchen, but also in a restaurant. It has an ergonomic design, a comfortable handle and a well-thought-out operating system. Abrasive stones are made in the form of rotating wheels. The case has three slots (2 diamond-coated, 1 ceramic). They are used to successively replace coarse abrasives with finer ones. This allows you to achieve better blade sharpness, the cutting surface is smooth, without damage.

Sharpener makes blades cutting tool sharp enough quickly and effortlessly. The only negative is that the model cannot be called universal, since it is not suitable for sharpening scissors and serrated knives with a wavy or sawtooth edge. Some users consider the price to be too high; in reviews they recommend buying Taidea T1202 exclusively during promotions and discounts.

2 MYVIT GLKS-2

Great option for the whole family
Price on AliExpress: from 484 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.8

MYVIT GLKS-2 is ideal for the whole family. It looks stylish in the kitchen and is very easy to use. The body is small, the handle is strong and comfortable. The removable unit does not move while sharpening knives, but it can be easily pulled out and inserted back if necessary. The rubberized base holds the sharpener tightly on the table, it practically does not move. It was a nice bonus big choice colors in the assortment of the seller on AliExpress: there are tools with yellow, red, white and black bodies. You can choose a set with a spare sharpening cassette, this is very convenient.

Many buyers write in reviews that with the help of MYVIT GLKS-2 their elderly parents quickly learned how to sharpen kitchen utensils. This tool will help restore sharpness to even slightly jagged blades. The only caveat is that problems may arise with ceramic knives; it is better to use a sharpener only for metal utensils.

1 NUOTEN ND-073

Comfortable handle. Rubberized body
Price on AliExpress: from 692 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.9

NUOTEN ND-073 is a fairly large sharpener with a rubber body base. It fits well in the hand thanks to the comfortable handle and does not slip on the surface. There are four slots (with ceramic and metal blades) for regular and asymmetrical Japanese sharpening. The model can be used to trim the edges of knives of any length and thickness. The blades become sharp after 7-8 movements; even more expensive devices cannot boast of this result.

The sharpener will be the best assistant in the kitchen; it has received mostly positive customer reviews on AliExpress. Everyone noted the high quality of materials and the pleasant texture of the rubber coating. NUOTEN ND-073 looks solid, much more expensive than its price. The only disadvantage is that the device cannot change the sharpening angle, but this is a feature of all classic sharpeners.

The best electric knife sharpeners from AliExpress

Electrically driven grinding systems are equipped with diamond and ceramic wheels. Typically they operate at a fixed angle. Electric sharpeners make regular and ceramic knives sharp with ease. There are devices that are suitable for sharpening scissors, cutters and even screwdrivers. They connect directly to a 220V network and can operate via an adapter or from batteries. Preference should be given to machines with a power of more than 40 W.

4 Famirosa Diamond Knife Sharpener

Nice design. Removable sharpening head
Price on AliExpress: from 1557 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.6

Famirosa Diamond Knife Sharpener will fit into any kitchen thanks to its pleasant blue design with shiny details. The device reaches 76 mm in height, about 226 mm in length, and the case is made of stainless steel. The sharpening head here is removable, it can be unscrewed and replaced if necessary. There is no user manual included, and this partially complicates the use of the electrical device. But the website has detailed instructions with pictures, so there shouldn’t be any problems.

Disadvantages include low quality materials and mediocre assembly. Reviews mention cases where the gear stopped spinning just a few days after purchase. There is also a fairly large “dead zone”; the area near the knife handle is practically not sharpened. Despite all the disadvantages, Famirosa Diamond Knife Sharpener is considered one of the best electric models on AliExpress.

3 RISAM SHARP RE002

The most accurate angle. Simple controls
Price on AliExpress: from 2482 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.7

RISAM SHARP RE002 looks practically no different from others electrical appliances from the rating. It is made in the form of a snow-white rectangle with rounded edges. The dimensions of the machine are average - 238 * 67 * 69 mm, the body is made of iron. There are slots for sharpening knives on the top, and a button to turn the device on and off on the side. With a precisely targeted angle and consistent pressure, the blades become sharp in just a few strokes.

The model is suitable for metal and ceramic knives. The kit includes an adapter, so you don't have to buy one additionally. The power of RISAM SHARP RE002 is small, but it is quite enough for sharpening kitchen appliances. Reviews say that you shouldn’t put too much pressure on the knives, you just need to gently press them against the diamond surface. Users also advise bringing the blade alternately to different sides of the stone to achieve better sharpness.

2 TEUMI Q2C0189

Powerful engine. Quality certificates from different countries
Price on AliExpress: from 1585 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.8

TEUMI Q2C0189 allows you to qualitatively correct the cutting edge of a knife with minimal labor costs. The device connects to the mains, it comes from AliExpress with a European plug included, so you don't need an adapter. The power of the model is 40 W, which is not too much, but quite enough to process the blades of any knives, including ceramic ones. The device always has a stable angle, there are two levels of sharpening to choose from - fine and coarse.

The body is made of stainless steel rather than aluminum, which is rare among budget models. The description on AliExpress contains an impressive list of certificates confirming the quality of the device: CIQ, EEC, FDA, LFGB, SGS. Reviews mention that TEUMI Q2C0189 is not suitable for short knives. It is better to use it for long kitchen appliances. The thickness of the blade also matters - a knife that is too thick may simply not fit into the slot.

1 Eleture Saim Fsda

The best multifunctional electric sharpener
Price on AliExpress: from 4758 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.9

Eleture Saim Fsda is an automatic knife sharpener with electric drive. The body is made of high-quality, odorless plastic; you can choose black and white or white and pink design. The device is ideal for sharpening knives, scissors and screwdrivers. For this purpose, 6 slots are provided, allowing you to make the cutting edge perfectly smooth. The machine's 60 W power is more than enough for fast work. An additional advantage is that if it overheats (70 degrees and above), automatic protection is activated, preventing the motor from burning out.

The device has an interesting design; it will fit well into the interior of the kitchen. The kit includes spare stones and a socket adapter. Judging by customer reviews, Eleture Saim Fsda copes with its tasks better than many budget analogues. But for expensive and high-quality knives, it’s worth choosing a different model. The disadvantages also include the fact that the device is quite heavy and bulky.

The best sharpening systems for professionals from AliExpress

Sharpeners from this category are considered the most convenient and effective, because they can be set to any angle, starting from 10 degrees. Sharpening systems are suitable for processing cutting edges of various shapes. The main advantage of such devices is their careful handling of the blade. During operation, a small layer of metal is removed, which cannot be achieved when using electric and mechanical sharpeners lingering type.

3 OUSSIRRO SS-3217

The most complete set for all occasions
Price on AliExpress: from 1710 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.7

Assembling the OUSSIRRO SS-3217 takes minimal time: you just need to insert the sleeve and fix the machine on the table. This set is perfect for a gift thanks to high-quality packaging and different configuration options. You can buy just spare stones or a complete set with a case and additional diamond-coated stones. It includes sharpening elements with grits of 180, 240, 400, 600, 800, 1000 and 1500.

This one has sharpening system and the shortcomings that customers report in their reviews. For example, many people complain about the weak plate that secures the blade. Because of this, you have to support the knife while sharpening. Users also warn that the plate has too sharp edges. If used carelessly, there is a risk of cutting yourself before you start working with the tool.

2 Weitaiguo R-4

High quality build. Convenient knife holder
Price on AliExpress: from 2011 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.8

This sharpening system comes disassembled from AliExpress. But the seller sends an assembly video, so there are no special difficulties at the first stage of work. The sharpener is made of aluminum and stainless alloy, individual parts are made of plastic. The clamp is conveniently fixed on the table, the sharpening angle is selected individually for each product. The stone holder has a universal shape - two blanks with threads inside.

The assembly of the Weitaiguo R-4 is excellent, no backlash. Of course, you need to get used to working with such a sharpener, but the result is worth it. With its help, you can sharpen knives efficiently without harming the blade. Among the disadvantages, users mention a flimsy clamp and too soft stones. They advise buying a diamond or ceramic set. The Weitaiguo R-4 base can be modified, covered with rubber or other material. But even without this, the sharpener works great with ordinary kitchen knives.

1 Ruixin PRO III

Best Sharpening System with Fixed Stand
Price on AliExpress: from 1370 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.9

Ruixin PRO III is an easy-to-use sharpening system for knives, blades, scissors and other items. This is the most popular professional sharpener on AliExpress; its design is very similar to the famous Apex Edge PRO. The device supports single-sided and double-sided sharpening functions. The angle is adjustable in the range of 5–90 degrees, the stand is fixed in the desired position. Almost all parts of this sharpening system are made of stainless steel.

The set includes 4 stones of different grain sizes (120, 320, 600, 1500 Grit). They have standard sizes, so the set can be easily supplemented with suitable abrasives of a different roughness. Reviews about this product on AliExpress are mostly positive, but there are some shortcomings mentioned. Users write that knives with a small blade are inconvenient to mount in the holder. Also, many complain about the low quality of stones and advise purchasing additional diamond ones.

The best sharpening stones (whips) from AliExpress

No matter how actively progress progresses, there will always be those who like to sharpen knives in the old proven way - with the help of sharpening stones. This is the most effective, but not very easy, method to make the blades sharp. On AliExpress you can buy sharpeners of this type, made mainly from artificial stone. There will be a coarse-grained and a fine-grained surface on different sides. There are also sets of several whetstones designed for sharpening and polishing knives.

4 XINGCHENG CF083-01

The optimum ratio of price and quality
Price on AliExpress: from 263 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.6

XINGCHENG CF083-01 is another popular model on AliExpress. It immediately attracts attention with its unusual design: a pattern reminiscent of a honeycomb is engraved on the surface of this stone. Diamond coating is reliable and wear-resistant; the seller’s assortment includes an option with only one grit level – 1000 Grit. It is suitable for sharpening and finishing the blades of hard steel blades. On the reverse side there is a sticky surface that prevents the bar from sliding.

Reviews recommend slightly wetting XINGCHENG CF083-01 before use. Thanks to this, the knife sharpening procedure will be easier and faster. Among the disadvantages, users mention that the plate is too thin and difficult to hold in their hands. To correct this inconvenience, you can glue the stone to any surface and make a handle or stand for it with your own hands.

3 Sy Tools Ruixin EDGE Apex

The most popular model on AliExpress
Price on AliExpress: from 256 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.7

Ruixin EDGE Apex from Sy Tools is a record holder for the number of orders and positive feedback on AliExpress. This inconspicuous-looking pebble helps restore sharpness to even the oldest and crooked knives. The surface grain is uniform, there are no cracks, chips or scratches. The stand is made of plastic, the bar itself is metal with diamond coating.

Users recommend ordering several sharpening stones at once to get a discount. It is convenient and profitable, especially since the assortment includes the most different variants grain size: from 80 to 2000 Grit. During transportation, the bars do not crumble, since the seller packs them well and firmly. The only drawback is that some buyers believe that the grain size is slightly too high. For example, a tool with 2000 Grit looks like a maximum of 1500. Otherwise, the product fully corresponds to the description; with its help, the blades are quickly sharpened on all sides.

2 Aihogard JJ2856

Best travel knife sharpener
Price on AliExpress: from 380 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.8

For traveling versions of sharpeners, the following is always required: special requirements. They should be light, compact, and easy to use. The price is no less important - it would be a pity if an expensive instrument is lost during a trip. The Aihogard JJ2856 whetstone meets all these criteria. It is light and compact, weighs no more than 60 g, dimensions - 125 * 32 * 16 mm. The device comes in a convenient plastic case that folds like a penknife.

For a ridiculous price, buyers from AliExpress get a good sharpening stone with two types of abrasive coating. The handles seem flimsy in appearance, but they can withstand the load, judging by the reviews. But their color in reality may differ from the photo on the seller’s page. But this does not affect the functionality of the travel knife sharpener. It's hard to find a better backpacking option for that kind of money.

1 SURVEN Sharpener

Wide area of ​​stone. Non-slip stand
Price on AliExpress: from 1105 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.9

SURVEN Sharpener is a diamond sharpening stone with a large area in a convenient stand case. His distinctive feature are non-slip linings on the body. Thanks to them, the sharpening procedure is simplified, even beginners can handle it. Those who have experience with stones can sharpen the edges of knives, scissors, shovels, hoes and axes in a matter of minutes. For this, there are two types of abrasive surfaces with grits of 1000 and 400.

The reviews claim that if you have this sharpener and straight hands, you can get a better result. Buyers express dissatisfaction only with the rim of the stand. But it wears off over time and no longer causes inconvenience. The dimensions of the diamond stone are 152*63 mm including the stand.

A knife sharpener is one of the indispensable attributes in any kitchen. If you do not need to sharpen centuries-old samurai clicks, and there is no need to sharpen the edge to the level of a scalpel. And all that is required is a device that can quickly bring ordinary kitchen knives to an acceptable condition. Then you need to choose the right sharpener, because each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, which will be discussed.

The difference between sharpening and straightening

All sharpeners are divided into two categories: for sharpening and for straightening a knife blade. All of them are intended for different applications.

Sharpening involves cutting metal on the blade of a knife to create the edge of the blade, thereby giving its overall shape. Editing (musat, abrasive and ceramic stones, sharpeners with additional ruling plates) does not cut the metal on the blade; straightening only changes the angle of the cutting edge, simultaneously leveling out all irregularities, chips, dents and other micro defects, even invisible to the eye.

This process can be compared to processing wooden block sandpaper. First, large grains are used (grind), we add the required form and trim off the excess bulges, but the block turns out to be covered in scratches and roughness, and then we process it with fine grain (straighten), thanks to which the block becomes smooth and absolutely even. Therefore, both devices have the maximum effect when working in tandem.

Types of sharpeners

Mechanical sharpeners

Classic with table support– the most optimal option for any kitchen, small size, blade guide groove and factory-set optimal angle for sharpening, allowing you to quickly bring any kitchen knife into working condition, without any skills or tricks! It can have up to three sharpening zones - coarse, dressing and one-sided for scissors. The safety of such a device is also at the proper level; the handle is located at a sufficient distance from the chute, due to which there is practically no risk of injury. The price range will certainly please the eye; they are very inexpensive.

Among the disadvantages, we can note the time it takes to sharpen, the knife becomes dull quite quickly, but thanks to the speed of the sharpening process, you can sharpen your kitchen device in a hurry at least every day. If you sharpen on the primary zone and then process it on the ruling zone, the sharpening will last much longer and the knife will be sharper. Also, a minor drawback will be the inability to achieve perfect sharpening - you will not be able to cut a hair on the fly (there are other sharpeners for this purpose), but for everyday kitchen needs, it is quite enough.

Sharpener brass knuckles— can be worn on the wrist and is very cheap. Sharpeners of this kind do not last long, they are very inconvenient and a little dangerous to use, and sharpening does not last long. According to its parameters, the brass knuckles sharpener loses on all counts, classic sharpener with table support. However, the extremely low cost makes it appropriate to use it in places where there is a chance of loss - for example, in the country.

Vacuum sharpener– new trend recent years, in most cases, has one (in more expensive models, two) sharpening zones, which is inferior to a sharpener with a table stop. However, its special feature is the vacuum suction cup on the bottom, which allows you to fix the sharpener on the table to always keep your hands safe while sharpening. Sharpening with a vacuum sharpener for one zone does not last long, with two, it takes an order of magnitude longer. A vacuum sharpener will also be an excellent option for any kitchen. Devices of this type are low cost.

Sharpener with knife mount– such sharpeners represent a whole set of tools, and kitchen option, it would be a very stretch to call it. The knife is clamped between two special fastening bars and sharpened through a hole at a certain angle. A stone with a coarse grain is replaced by a stone with a fine one, and then even finer, thus sharpening is carried out strictly at a set angle, until it is perfectly sharp. Naturally, you can stop at a medium stone and not bring the knife to a razor-like state. This method of sharpening requires a lot of time and some skill, moreover, the price of the set is very high. But as a gift to a beloved man, with a promise forever sharp knives in the house, an excellent option. In addition to kitchen knives, he will be able to keep all his hunting and hiking knives in perfect condition.

Electric sharpeners

Small portable electric sharpeners make the process of sharpening a knife as easy as possible. No additional knowledge or skills are required if you follow the instructions. Sharpening with electric sharpeners is very simple, the sharpening lasts quite a long time, but one should not lose sight of the high cost of the device. Significant disadvantage there will be excessive grinding of the knife, compared to manual and mechanical options. Despite marketing beliefs, it will not be possible to sharpen a samurai sword with an electric sharpener, but such sharpness is not needed in the kitchen. Safety in use is very high, it is extremely difficult to injure your hand. An electric sharpener is an excellent option that allows you to get all the knives in the kitchen ready for use in a matter of minutes.

Completely manual

Sharpening stones– sharpening stones familiar to everyone, of various shapes and degrees of grain. The stones do their job well, but require considerable skill (after all, the angle at which it is necessary to sharpen will have to be determined by eye), and also, choosing the right grain size of the stone. Coarse grain is intended for knives with a high margin of safety or complete sharpening of the knife, and too fine grain is only suitable for re-sharpening after processing with a primary sharpener. That’s why you need to choose the right stone, and it won’t fit all the knives in the house.

There is also no question of safety; you need to be extremely careful, since there is no protection for your hand. The cost varies from the price for a loaf of bread, the most common cheap stone, in any hardware store, to very expensive ones (akin to the price of an electric sharpener), for water-based, oil-based, diamond, and other professional stones.

Sharpener with fixed rods– the sharpening rods are located at an angle of twenty and twenty-five degrees. The knife needs to be moved vertically evenly, which makes the task somewhat easier than with stones. But still, according to experts, such sharpeners are suitable for sharpening a knife. This device copes very poorly with something that is completely dull.

Musat– is not a sharpener, it is an edge-dressing tool. That is, first, the knife is sharpened, and then it is sharpened with musat to achieve greater sharpness and the time that the sharpening will last. Musat also has appropriate uses for the kitchen. When the knife becomes slightly dull, you can trim the edge with musat and it will become sharp again. And most importantly, the musat does not cut metal from the knife, which significantly increases its service life. It will not be possible to use musat alone; from time to time the knife still needs to be fully processed using a sharpener. In many restaurants, the chef sharpens his expensive signature knife with musat while cooking, up to hundreds of times a day. Because the process takes just seconds. It is enough to carry out only 3-4 times on each side of the blade.

That's all, I wish you a pleasant shopping and sharp knives at home :)