Navigating the world of sharpening steels can be daunting, especially with the variety of options available. At Argus, we aim to simplify your selection process by breaking down the different types of sharpening steels and their specific uses. Whether you aim to keep your blades razor-sharp or improve their edge retention, understanding the differences will help you choose the best tool for maintaining your knives.
A sharpening steel—also known as a honing steel or sharpening rod—is an essential tool for maintaining your knife’s edge. Rather than sharpening from scratch, which involves grinding away metal, a sharpening steel helps realign and refine the edge. Regular use can keep your knives sharp longer and reduce the frequency of professional sharpening.
The coarse sharpening steel, sometimes referred to as spiral-cut steel, is designed to grind away damaged metal and create a new edge. It’s ideal for knives that are severely blunt or have minor damage. This type of steel quickly reshapes the edge, making it a go-to tool for major maintenance.
The standard cut sharpening steel features pronounced cuts on its surface, which result in a rougher cutting-edge profile. Over time, the knife’s edge can become slightly rounded and blunt. The regular cut steel helps to restore the knife’s edge by roughing it up, which can be useful for knives that need a bit of revitalisation before finer honing.
For a smoother, more refined edge, the fine cut sharpening steel is the way to go. It offers velvety-soft honing and creates a uniformly sharp cutting edge. Regular use of fine-cut steel can maintain your knife’s sharpness for extended periods, reducing the need for more aggressive sharpening.
The super fine sharpening steel provides an ultra-smooth finish, honing your knife to a razor-sharp edge. This type is often used as a final step after a coarse or fine sharpening steel to achieve a polished, precise edge. It’s perfect for maintaining a high level of performance and keeping your knives in top shape.
A polished sharpening steel restores the cutting edge to its original shape and shine. It’s ideal for refining the edge after using a coarser steel, offering a final touch that enhances the knife’s sharpness and appearance. The polished surface ensures high work performance and reduces fatigue during use.
Combi or dual sharpening steels feature multiple cuts on one tool, either with two sides having different cuts or four sides with two distinct cuts. This versatility allows you to switch between coarser and finer sharpening as needed, making it a practical choice for maintaining various knives.
Diamond steels have gained popularity for their efficiency. Coated with ultra-fine 100% diamond abrasives, these steels offer simultaneous honing and realignment of the knife edge. They’re a modern solution for those seeking a high-performance sharpening tool.
DICKORON sharpening steels feature a special sapphire cut that provides velvety-soft honing. Available in round and oval shapes with a 30 cm blade length, DICKORON steels are known for their ability to maintain a uniformly sharp and fine cutting edge for a long time. They are a premium choice for those who value precise and enduring sharpness.
Choosing the right sharpening steel depends on your specific needs and the condition of your knives. At Argus, we offer a range of options to suit every requirement, helping you keep your tools in perfect working order.
Explore our selection and find the sharpening steel that’s best for you!
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