Finding the Best Angle for Knife Sharpening: A Professional Guide

As a chef or home cook, you know how important it is to have a sharp knife in the kitchen. A dull knife can be frustrating to work with and can cause accidents. Sharpening your knife is an essential task that needs to be done regularly. However, finding the best angle for knife sharpening can be challenging. In this article, we will discuss the different angles for knife sharpening and help you find the best angle for your knife.

Types of Knife Angles

There are different types of angles for sharpening knives. Here are some of the most common angles:

A. 15-degree angle: Ideal for Asian knives.
B. 20-degree angle: Ideal for European and American knives.
C. 22-degree angle: Ideal for hunting and outdoor knives.
D. 25-degree angle: Ideal for heavy-duty knives.

Choosing the Best Angle for Your Knife

There are several factors to consider when choosing the best angle for your knife:

A. The Angle That Comes With Your Knife:

Some knives come with a specific angle already, so it’s essential to check the manufacturer’s recommendations before sharpening your knife.

B. Type of Usage:

The type of knife and its intended use can also determine the best angle for sharpening. For example, a chef’s knife might require a different angle than a hunting knife.

C. Personal Preference:

Personal preference also plays a role in choosing the best angle. Some people prefer a sharper edge, while others prefer a more durable edge.

How to Find the Angle of Your Knife?

To find the angle of your knife, you can use an angle guide or a sharpening stone. Here are some methods to determine the angle of your knife:

Step 1: Angles and Bevels:

The angle of the bevel on your knife can give you an idea of the angle to use for sharpening. You can use a protractor to measure the angle of the bevel.

Step 2: Using an Angle Guide:

An angle guide is a tool that attaches to your knife to help you maintain a consistent angle while sharpening. Place the angle guide on the knife and adjust it to the desired angle.

Step 3: Using a Sharpening Stone:

Place the knife on the stone and adjust the angle until you feel the blade is making contact with the stone at the right angle.

Sharpening Techniques

Once you have determined the best angle for your knife, you can use various techniques to sharpen it. Here are some common sharpening techniques:

A. Using a Honing Rod:

A honing rod is a tool used to maintain the knife’s edge between sharpening sessions. Hold the honing rod at the desired angle and glide the knife down the rod.

B. Using a Sharpening Stone:

A sharpening stone is a tool used to sharpen the knife’s edge. Place the knife on the stone at the desired angle and draw the blade across the stone, making sure to maintain the angle.

C. Using an Electric Sharpener:

An electric sharpener is a convenient tool that can sharpen your knife quickly and efficiently. Place the knife in the sharpener at the desired angle and let the machine do the work for you.

Read More: Best Kitchen Knife Sharpeners of 2023

FAQs

Q. Should I get a 15 or 20 angle knife?

The choice between a 15 or 20-degree angle knife depends on your personal preference and the intended use of the knife. A 15-degree angle provides a sharper edge, making it suitable for tasks that require precision and delicate cuts. On the other hand, a 20-degree angle offers a more durable edge, making it better for heavy-duty tasks and cutting through tougher materials.

Q. What angle do butchers sharpen their knives?

Butchers typically sharpen their knives to a slightly higher angle, around 20 to 25 degrees. This angle provides a balance between sharpness and durability, allowing the knives to withstand the demands of cutting through meat and bone.

Q. How do you get a 15-degree angle knife?

To achieve a 15-degree angle on a knife, you can use a sharpening guide or angle guide. These tools help maintain a consistent angle while sharpening. Alternatively, you can use a sharpening stone and manually hold the knife at a 15-degree angle while sharpening, but this requires practice and skill.

Q. What angle do you sharpen steel?

Sharpening steels, also known as honing steels, are typically used to realign the edge of a knife rather than sharpening it. The angle at which you use a sharpening steel can vary, but a common recommendation is to use a 20-degree angle. However, it’s important to note that sharpening steels do not actually remove metal from the blade but rather straightens the edge.

Q. Are all knives 20 degrees?

No, not all knives have a 20-degree angle. The angle of a knife’s edge can vary depending on its intended use, design, and manufacturer. While 20 degrees is a common angle for many kitchen knives, other knives, such as Japanese knives, may have narrower angles, such as 15 degrees, for enhanced precision and cutting performance.

Q. Can you sharpen a 20-degree knife to 15?

Yes, it is possible to sharpen a 20-degree knife to a 15-degree angle. However, this process requires removing a significant amount of metal from the blade, which can affect the knife’s overall durability. It is recommended to consult a professional or use specialized sharpening tools to ensure proper and safe sharpening.

Q. What is the angle of a Japanese knife?

Japanese knives typically have a narrower angle compared to Western-style knives. The angle can vary depending on the specific type of Japanese knife, but it is commonly around 15 degrees. This narrower angle allows for precise and clean cuts, making Japanese knives popular among chefs and enthusiasts.

Q. What angle are most chef knives?

Most Western-style chef knives have a standard angle of around 20 degrees. This angle provides a good balance between sharpness and durability, making it versatile for various kitchen tasks. However, it’s important to note that the angle can vary depending on the brand, style, and individual preferences of the chef.

Q. What is the angle of a Global knife?

Global knives, a popular brand known for their Japanese-style knives, typically have a narrower angle of around 15 degrees. This narrower angle allows for exceptional sharpness and precision, making Global knives favored by many professional chefs and home cooks alike.

Conclusion

Finding the best angle for knife sharpening is essential to maintain the longevity and effectiveness of your knife. Different knives have different angles that suit their purpose, and personal preference also plays a role. By considering the type of knife, its intended use, and personal preference, you can determine the best angle for sharpening. Use an angle guide or sharpening stone to find the angle of your knife, then use a honing rod, sharpening stone, or electric sharpener to sharpen the blade. Regularly sharpening your knife will help avoid dullness, accidents, and frustration. With these tips, you can keep your knives sharp and ready for any kitchen task.

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