If any of you have ever gotten the talk about how to use a steel in our store, you'll notice the similarity in hand movements. Like the man in the video, we also sharpen knives by hand, though we have a lot more equipment. (At some point, when I remember to take my camera to Louisville, you'll get a tour of the shop.)
To summarize the video, calling it a "sharpening steel" isn't quite accurate. It really hones the edge until the knife becomes too worn and needs to have a new edge ground onto it. This is best done professionally, in general, and frequency depends on how much you use your knife. If you use a steel regularly and take good care of your knife, every year or two is sufficient.
In the meantime, remember these guidelines:
1)Remember, use your steel!
2) Use a cutting board, not the counter or a plate.
A wooden cutting board is best for your knife, though any material will work if you avoid hard surfaces like glass. Bamboo cutting boards are very fashionable at the moment, as well as being a good choice ecologically. Remember to wash it after cutting meat and poultry.
2) SAY NO TO THE DISHWASHER!
Using a dishwasher can dull your knife and damage the handle.
3)Store knives somewhere secure.There are several options available, from blocks that sit on the counter, ones the mount on the underside of your cabinets, or ones that can sit in your gadget drawer. If those occupy too much space, you can always get an edge guard, which will protect both the blade and your hand when you reach into a crowded drawer.
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