If you use knives frequently at home or for work, you will definitely need a sharpening stone. You can use it to keep your blades sharp and ready to go. But have you ever wondered about how do you use a sharpening stone? It is very important to do it correctly, as a sharp knife makes cutting safer and easier. Here, we’ll show you how to choose the right whetstone, prepare it for work, use it, and take care of it. Let’s start this exciting journey to sharp knives together!
Sharpening Stone How to Use Step-by-step
USA-Market has prepared for you the most important tips on how to sharpen on a whetstone. Keep in mind that this is important. The right choice, use and cleaning of a whetstone is a guarantee that you will get sharp knives, and the stone itself will serve you for a very long time. Therefore, we will start from the very beginning, namely, with the selection of the right stone for sharpening a knife.
Choosing the Right Honing Stone
Before you start to use sharpening stone, you need to choose the right model. First of all, choose the grit of the sharpening stone. The choice depends on the condition of your steel knife. If the knife is severely dull, choose a coarse grit for initial sharpening. It will quickly remove excess metal and restore the basic shape of the blade. For finishing polishing, it is better to use a stone with fine grit. It will help to make the blade edge perfectly sharp and smooth.
It is also important to consider the material of the sharpening stone. Diamond and CBN stones are excellent choices for knives made of very hard materials such as high-carbon steel. They provide efficient and long-lasting sharpening.
Recommendations from the Manufacturer
- The EXPERT PRO Series sharpening stones perform best when used with a solution of water and soap. This helps to reduce friction and makes the sharpening process more efficient.
- The PREMIUM Series honing stones work best with a special sharpening oil. The use of oil ensures that the blade glides smoothly and achieves optimum sharpness. For sharpening knives, a special mineral oil is usually used to reduce friction and prevent metal particles from clogging the stone. It also ensures that the knife is sharpened evenly.
ATTENTION: Please do not use any oil for sharpening knives other than specialized oil. Engine oil, machine oil, and any other oils will only harm the stone and your knife!
Preparing for Pro Knife Sharpening
Everything is very simple, just follow the algorithm:
- Check the stone for damage and make sure it is clean.
- If the whetstone has been used before, wipe it with a damp cloth to remove any metal residue and other contaminants.
- Some honing stones may require pre-moistening with water or applying a special oil – follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.
- Congratulations, your whetstone is ready for use!
Technique on How to Use Honing Stone
Well, now you know how to choose the right stone, but how to sharpen on a whetstone? In fact, technique is very important. But now we will quickly help you figure it out, just take it one step at a time:
- Make sure that the knife is securely fastened. You can use special sharpening equipment or work on a stable surface, such as a table.
- For best results, moisten the sharpening block with a solution of soap and water or use a special oil.
- Hold the knife at the correct angle (usually 15-20 degrees) and move the blade along the block in a smooth, even motion.
- Repeat the process on both sides of the blade until you achieve the desired sharpness.
- After sharpening, clean the knife and the stone from metal and oil residue.
Cleaning and Caring for the Whetstone CBN
After sharpening is completed, it is recommended to wipe the blade sharpening stone with alcohol or special knife sharpening oil. Use a dry handkerchief to remove any metal and dust residue. If necessary, you can rinse the sharpening block with water and mild detergent and dry it thoroughly. Store the stone in a dry and clean place to avoid damaging its surface.
To renew the honing stone, you can use:
- Silicon carbide (only on a flat surface)
- Special abrasive blocks
- An abrasive tool
By following these tips, you will ensure the longevity of your sharpening block and always have sharp knives.
Conclusion
So, we hope you now understand how to use a sharpening stone. It’s very simple, so don’t worry. Just follow our tips and the manufacturer’s advice and you’ll be fine! We recommend that you go to the Stones category of our website. There you will find high-quality sharpening stones for any purpose. Choose a stone with the right grit, prepare it quickly, and sharpen your steel knife to perfection with USA-Market!
