Traveling Knife GalSharpening grinds away a little metal to create a fresh edge. Honing realigns an edge that has rolled or bent over with use, without removing much metal. Hone a straight-edge knife often to keep it cutting; sharpen it when honing no longer brings it back. Double-D edges aren't honed or sharpened at home; Cutco sharpens them free.
What each one does
A sharp edge is incredibly thin. In use it bends and rolls over microscopically, so the knife feels dull even though the edge is still there. Honing pushes that edge back into line. Sharpening removes metal with an abrasive to create a brand-new edge when the old one is worn down.
How often
- Hone: whenever a straight-edge knife starts to slip on a tomato skin; some cooks hone before every use.
- Sharpen: when honing no longer restores it, typically every several months to a year for home cooks, depending on use.
How to hone a straight edge
- Hold the rod vertically, tip on a towel on the counter.
- Place the heel of the blade against the rod at about the edge angle (Cutco straight edges are 15 degrees per side).
- Draw the knife down and toward you so the whole edge, heel to tip, touches the rod. Alternate sides, 4 to 6 light strokes each.
For Cutco knives
Cutco straight edges can be maintained at home with the Cutco Knife Sharpener. Double-D edges should go to Cutco, which sharpens them free under the Forever Guarantee. See how to sharpen kitchen knives.
Questions
Does honing sharpen a knife?
No. Honing realigns a rolled edge; sharpening removes metal to make a new edge.
How often should I hone my knife?
Whenever a straight-edge knife starts slipping or feeling dull; some cooks hone before every use.
Can you hone a serrated or Double-D knife?
Not with an ordinary rod. Send Cutco Double-D knives to Cutco for free sharpening.
Keep reading
Sources: Cutco: Just the Facts · Cutco: Knife Sharpening & Repair