It is no secret that keeping a Butcher Knife sharp is central to its performance. A dull or blunt knife will struggle to cut through joints of meat with any accuracy or ease. When cutting becomes difficult, it is more likely that the butcher will resort to harder and more reckless cuts. This will decrease the quality and neatness of the incision that is made and may even prove to be more dangerous. A knife sharpener will keep Butchers Knives working at their peak and pinnacle and create greater cuts.

There are a number of different types of knife sharpeners to satisfy all experienced and novice butchers. Here is a guide to the different knife sharpeners available.

Steel Sharpener

The Steel Sharpener is a tool commonly found in many butchers and restaurant kitchens. The simplicity and effectiveness of the product allows for an appearance of professional performance. Hold the Steel Sharpener in your unflavoured hand by the handle and point away from the body. Hold the Butcher Knife that you want to sharpen in your favoured hand and place the blade next the base of the sharpener. Then glide that knife along the Steel Sharpener and away from the body. Repeat 10 times for each side of the blade.

Manual Sharpener

The manual sharpener is more suited for the individual who has a lot of Butcher Knives to sharpen in one go. Although it takes up more of the work surface than a Steel Sharpener it requires less exertion to use. Simply place the manual sharpener on the work surface and then using your favoured hand, slide the blunt knife through the middle of the sharpener. The manual sharpener will sharpen both sides of the blade at the same time so you do not have to repeat the action for individual faces.

Sharpening Stone

The sharpening stone works in a similar manner to Steel Sharpener in the respect that you have to slide the Butcher Knife over a coarse surface. Place the sharpening stone on a work surface away from any obstacles. Place the base of the blade of the Butcher Knife at a 45° angle and slide towards yourself carefully. Repeat this for both sides of the blade 10 times.

Electric Sharpener

The Electric Sharpener is ideal for those who want to sharpen their Butcher Knives incredibly quickly. Simply plug the sharpener into the mains and place on the work surface. When operating, simply slide the knife through the openings in the sharpener.