Manual vs. Electric Knife Sharpeners - Which Is Better?

Knife blades do become dull with use – that is one of the few certainties in life. Another certainty is the disagreement that people have over the way to deal with the dull knife problem. It comes down to:

• Manual knife sharpeners
• Electric knife sharpeners and
• Professional knife sharpening services

The right sharpening can make all the difference to the cooking experience and the food that comes out of the kitchen. What type of sharpener is right for you or does professional sharpening make more sense?

Manual Knife Sharpening

People who prefer manual knife sharpeners love the amount of control they have over the sharpening process. Different types of knives need to be sharpened at different angles, and with a manual sharpener, you have total control over this. However, it is also easy to make a mistake and misjudge the angle to be used. Another downside is that manual sharpening will require more time and effort as compared to other options. In addition, manual sharpeners such as whetstones, sharpening rods, and other devices are not suited for serrated or wavy-edged blades. On the plus side, these are normally less expensive than electric sharpeners.

Electric Knife Sharpening

The growing popularity of electric knife sharpeners is proof of how easy they are to use and how effective they are. With an electric sharpener, all you need to do is turn it on and insert the blade into the machine. Depending on the type of machine, you may have to move the blade backward and forward in the machine, but that is all. The whole sharpening process is quick and typically completed in just a minute to two, at the most. Another plus of electric sharpeners is that they can sharpen all types of kitchen knives, including serrated and wavy-edged bladed ones. The downside is that electric knife sharpeners are generally more expensive than manual ones.

Also Read: Sharpening Branded Knives: Why Professional Services Make a Difference

Professional Sharpening – Where to Get Knives Sharpened Locally

Knife sharpening is both a science and an art. To sharpen knives the right way and to be sure that the best possible edge is obtained (while protecting the knife from damage and ensuring that excess material is not removed during the sharpening process as this will reduce the life of the knife), you need to understand the following:

• The type of kitchen knife being sharpened (German and Japanese style knives must be sharpened differently).
• The type of steel from which the blade is made.
• Other factors that influence the way sharpening needs to be done.

No matter how good a cook you are, these technical matters of metallurgy and blade design are not things you need to know. Your time will also be better spent in cooking instead of maintaining the sharpness of your kitchen knives. Getting your knives sharpened locally is the best option.

There are some problems with taking your knives to a sharpening service.

• You don’t know how good the service is and whether your knives will come back with the best possible cutting edge.
• The risk of an inadequately skilled and experienced technician damaging your knives is always present.
• Taking the knives for sharpening and then going back later to pick them up is a hassle.
• You can’t depend on the knives being ready at the promised time.
• The cost can be exorbitant.

There is, however, another much safer and better professional knife sharpening option. In the SF Bay Area, Rejuvenated Knives offers a concierge doorstep knife pick-up and drop-off service. The company uses cutting-edge technology and traditional craftsmanship to ensure that each knife is perfectly sharpened to the best possible edge and the sharpening does not damage the knife. One phone call will have the knife collected and once the job is done, you will receive a confirmed return time. The Rejuvenated Knives website contains all the information you need to know that this is the best way to sharpen and protect your valuable kitchen knives.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between manual and electric knife sharpeners?

Manual sharpeners offer control but require more effort, while electric sharpeners are quicker and can handle all types of blades, including serrated ones.

Are manual knife sharpeners better than electric ones?

Manual sharpeners give you more control over the sharpening angle but are time-consuming. Electric sharpeners are faster and easier to use but can be pricier.

Can electric sharpeners damage knives?

When used correctly, electric sharpeners are safe. However, using them too often or incorrectly can wear down the blade over time.

Why should I choose professional sharpening over DIY methods?

Professional services ensure optimal sharpening, protect your knife from damage, and extend its lifespan. DIY methods may not offer the same precision.

What are the benefits of using a local knife sharpening service?

Local services, like Rejuvenated Knives, offer expertise in sharpening, pick-up and drop-off convenience, and assurance that your knives will be sharpened to perfection.