Use a pull-through sharpener

Draw the knife through the sharpener's preset slots from heel to tip using light, consistent pressure. Most models have a coarse slot for sharpening and a fine slot for honing. Repeat 5-10 pulls per slot.

Why It Works

Pull-through sharpeners have carbide or ceramic elements set at a fixed angle that remove metal and reshape the edge. The preset angle eliminates the skill needed to maintain a consistent bevel by hand.

Tips

• Convenient and fast — restores a usable edge in under a minute
• Removes more metal than necessary with each use, shortening the knife's lifespan over years
• The fixed angle may not match your knife's original bevel, especially Japanese knives
• Best for everyday kitchen knives — don't use on expensive blades
• Electric models ($30-80) are more consistent than manual models ($10-25)