Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using A Knife Sharpener

Knife sharpening stones, often just called whetstones, are a crucial tool for keeping your kitchen knives sharp and ready for any task. 

While using a sharpening stone might seem straightforward, certain common errors can drastically reduce the effectiveness of your sharpening session and potentially damage your knives. Let’s chat about common knife-sharpening mistakes and best practice.

Choosing the Wrong Whetstone Grit

One of the most critical knife-sharpening mistakes is selecting the wrong grit for your sharpening stone. Whetstones come in various grits, and using the incorrect one can change your knife’s performance. Coarse grits are great for repairing damaged knives or those with very dull edges, while finer grits are best for honing and polishing the blade. If you're unsure which grit to use, start with a medium grit to assess how your knife responds before moving to more specialised stones.

Not Soaking Your Sharpening Stone

Water stones need to be soaked adequately to perform at their best. Skipping this step can lead to a less effective sharpening process, as a dry stone won’t properly lubricate the knife during sharpening. Aim for at least 10-15 minutes of soaking time for most sharpening stones for knives, but always refer to the manufacturer's instructions for the best results.

Inconsistent Sharpening Angles

Maintaining a consistent angle between your knife and the stone is essential for getting a sharp edge. Varying your angle during the sharpening process can lead to an uneven blade or even damage to the edge of your knife. If holding the angle steady is challenging, consider using an angle guide to help maintain consistency.

Applying the Wrong Pressure

How much pressure you apply while sharpening can make or break your blade’s edge. Too much force can wear down the stone and damage the knife, while too little won’t sharpen the blade effectively. The key is to apply steady, moderate pressure and adjust based on the feedback from the knife and stone.

Skipping Grit Progression

Another common knife sharpening mistake is not progressing through different grits of stones. Many people start with a coarse stone and jump right to a fine stone, but this can leave coarse scratches that a fine grit can't smooth out. It's important to work your way through the grits, which gradually refine the blade's edge.

Neglecting Stone Maintenance

Keeping your sharpening stone flat and clean is vital for effective sharpening. Over time, stones can become dished or grooved, which affects the sharpening angle and the quality of the blade edge. Regular maintenance, including flattening the stone, ensures that each sharpening session is as effective as the first.

Ignoring the Importance of a Burr

A burr is a small fold of metal that forms on the edge opposite the side you're sharpening. Feeling for a burr throughout the sharpening process is crucial because it indicates that the edge has been sufficiently worked. Not checking for a burr can lead to under-sharpening and a less effective knife.

Rushing the Process

Knife sharpening is not a race. Taking your time ensures consistency in angle and pressure and allows you to check your progress and make adjustments as needed. Rushing can result in mistakes that are hard to correct and might require starting the process over.

Sharpening Your Skills & Avoiding Knife Sharpening Mistakes

Improving your sharpening skills takes practice, but avoiding these knife sharpening mistakes can help you get the most out of your knives. With each careful pass over the stone, you ensure it's ready to perform at its best in your next culinary venture. 

Remember, a sharp knife is a chef's best friend in the kitchen, so take your time and sharpen wisely!