Use an electric knife sharpener for fast, consistent results

Run the knife through the slots of an electric sharpener, which uses motorized abrasive wheels or belts to grind a new edge automatically. Electric sharpeners are the fastest way to restore a very dull knife and require no skill in maintaining a consistent angle.

How It Works

Electric sharpeners contain spring-loaded motorized grinding wheels (usually ceramic, diamond, or abrasive composite) set at a fixed angle inside a slot. You pull the knife through the slot slowly and the wheels remove metal to create a new edge. Most models have 2-3 stages: coarse grinding to reshape the edge, fine grinding to refine it, and sometimes a honing/stropping stage to polish.

Step-by-Step

1. Place the sharpener on a stable, flat surface
2. Start with the coarsest slot (only if the knife is very dull or damaged)
3. Draw the knife through the slot slowly and smoothly, from heel to tip, using light downward pressure
4. Repeat 3-5 times per side (or as the manufacturer recommends)
5. Move to the finer slot(s) and repeat
6. Wipe the blade with a damp cloth to remove metal filings
7. Test sharpness on paper or a tomato

Tips

• Chef'sChoice (EdgeCraft) is the most respected brand; models 1520 and 15/20 Trizor XV are highly rated
• The coarse stage removes significant metal; use it only when the knife is genuinely dull, not for routine maintenance
• For regular touch-ups, use only the fine and stropping stages
• Most electric sharpeners set a 15-degree edge (Asian style) or 20-degree edge (Western style); choose one that matches your knives or has adjustable angles
• Electric sharpeners work well on standard Western kitchen knives (German, American) but should NOT be used on single-bevel Japanese knives, serrated knives, or ceramic knives

Limitations

• Removes more metal than hand sharpening methods, slightly shortening the knife's lifespan over time
• Fixed angle may not match your knife's original geometry
• Not suitable for high-end Japanese knives (use a whetstone instead)
• The edge produced is functional but not as refined as a skilled whetstone sharpening
• Cost: $30-150 for quality models