In order to have knives that will serve you well in the kitchen, we need to keep their blades razor-sharp, right?
To achieve this, we need to use a manual knife sharpener.
Having sharp knives in your kitchen at all times, you will cut with ease and precision and the pressure you will need to use will be brought to a minimum as the blade will do most of the job.
Even though knives are an indispensable kitchen tool; we could not really reap their benefits without an efficient knife sharpener.
Many experts agree that a good knife and a sharpening tool go hand in hand. But, as there are plenty of options to choose from, many potential buyers may easily become confused and unable to decide.
To this extent, we’ve decided to present the best manual knife sharpener today and the reasons why they all make an excellent choice!
Table of Contents
Do I Need a Knife Sharpener?
A dull knife does not just prevent you from finishing the task in question, but it also increases the chances of an injury. Believe it or not, a dull knife is more dangerous for usage than a sharp one.
Though knife sharpening is a culinary technique that requires practice, it is worth it and once you “master” it, you will become a safer, faster, and more efficient cook.
Why does a Knife Need to Be Sharp?
In addition to keeping you safe, a sharp knife matters if we want to cut and slice through food cleanly, meticulously, and with minimal effort.
On the other hand, a dull knife requires you to use additional force to cut even through the softest of foods. This may cause you to lose grip easier.
Properly cut food is necessary so that it cooks evenly, regardless of whether it is boiled, roasted or sautéed. The end result will be tastier and better-looking food. Not bad, right?
If you want to preserve optimal razor sharpness, avoid washing your knives in the dishwasher, even though they are dishwasher-safe.
Why Opt for a Manual Sharpener over Electric One?
Even though electric knife sharpeners also have their advantages, many users prefer the manual knife sharpener because of the low aggression on the knife’s blade, better speed and pressure control, and affordability.
And, they’re such a great option for people with smaller kitchen space- they easily fit into cabinets and drawers and are less bulky than the electric ones.
Since the budget plays a pivotal role in deciding on a knife sharpener, you should be aware that the price range for manual sharpeners is big.
However, pull-throughs are at the lower end whereas the whetstones are at the higher.
How to Use a Handheld Knife Sharpener
Choosing the Manual Knife Sharpener
Before we discuss the different types of knife sharpeners, we need to explain the distinction between sharpening and honing.
The former is when the metal of the blade is ground down to produce a new edge and the more the blade is being sharpened, the more the metal wears off. The latter is blade realignment, that is, the edge of an already-sharp knife is being straightened.
In terms of manual sharpeners, it’s important to note that there are two types to choose from and they’re very different from each other. The choice you make depends on your needs and personal preference.
The first type is pull-through sharpeners such as the ones we discussed in this review and they’re the ideal choice for casual users and are suitable for most types of knives.
The second type is sharpening stones that can sharpen any type of blade; however, they do require a bit of skill to use properly.
Does My Knife Need Sharpening?
When even the simplest of tasks requiring your knife is very hard to complete, it means you have to sharpen it up. And, a knife that is dull and needs to get revived will be tearing and crushing meat and fruits and veggies instead of slicing them.
What’s more, you’ll know it’s time for sharpening if you cautiously run the finger along the blade and you can feel imperfections that are also visible. The blade may also appear blunt or rounded.
When honing doesn’t bring back the blade to life, it’s definitely time for some proper sharpening. What’s great about manual sharpeners is that most of them offer these 2 stages in 1 product, i.e. honing and sharpening.
How to Clean Manual Knife Sharpener?
If you decide to purchase a manual knife sharpener, it’s vital to take good care of it if you want it to last for a long period of time. Remember to clean it after every use- a simple mild cloth and a brush will suffice.
In terms of storage, be sure it’s always placed in a clean area that is always dry. Water rinsing needs to be avoided because it may damage the blades.
Manual Knife Sharpener Reviews
1. Chef Choice Pronto Manual Knife Sharpener
Highlighted Features
- Sharpens & hones
- Suitable for inexperienced & experienced users
- 100 % diamond abrasive wheels
- Wheels maintain shape long-term
- Suitable for straight & serrated blades
This manual knife sharpener is considered to be the fastest handheld sharpener currently. It is a premium tool and so simple to use, regardless of your experience level-one slot sharpens and the other one hones and polishes the blade for supreme sharpness, durability, and strength.
The two stages utilize wheels which are 100-percent diamond abrasives. They will maintain shape indefinitely, which is not the case with ceramic wheels that tend to lose their shape as the time passes by.
The criss-cross sharpening technology produces a razor-sharp edge while the bevel angle control sharpens knives to a 15-degree angle, Asian-style. You can use the sharpener for both serrated and straight santoku, as well as for other double bevel Asian styles of knives.
The ergonomic and practical design of the handle makes it suitable for left- and right-handed users while the soft and non-slippery material enables a strong and secure grasp. This will also protect your hands and fingers while using it.
2. KitchenIQ Edge Grip Manual Knife Sharpener
Highlighted Features
- Small size
- Patented Edge Grip
- Non-slippery
- Stainless steel blades
- Ceramic rods for honing
- Easy-to-use
This sharpener is an excellent option to polish and touch-up your already sharp knives. The patented Edge Grip allows sharpening on a table’s or a countertop’s edge and averts the tips of bigger knives to drag on the surface. Its base is made of top-notch non-slippery material that ensures optimal stability and control.
The coarse (carbide) stainless steel blades allow for the quick edge setting while the ceramic or fine rods are in charge of the final honing of the edge. It will sharpen your knives quickly and help you maintain their good shape.
You just need a couple of pulls through the coarse slot and then a couple of additional ones through the fine slot, and you are good to go. Thanks to its small size, you can easily store it in the drawer or keep it on the kitchen countertop for quick access.
However, it shouldn’t be used for sharpening knives with serrated blades.
Want to prevent your knife from going dull? polish it onto the fine slot of the device prior to each use.
3. Priority Chef Manual Knife Sharpener
Highlighted Features
- Inexpensive sharpener
- Made of quality materials
- Stylish
- Ergonomic
- Comfy handle
- Diamond-coated sharpening wheel
This manual sharpener is described by users as “easy to use”, “quick”, and “safe”. And, we also agree that this is a top-quality, yet affordable and reliable sharpening tool. It’s made of quality materials and boasts a stylish and ergonomic design.
Thanks to the ergonomic handle, every grip will be easy and comfy. Plus, we love how easy-to-use this sharpener is- just slide it several times onto the slot and your blade will be razor-sharp in no time.
This is certainly of the most innovative kitchen devices because of the diamond-coated sharpening wheels suitable for blades of all types and sizes. As you already know, it maintains the blade sharp longer than other non-diamond wheels.
The company offers a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee and a money refund for unsatisfied customers.
4. Zulay Kitchen Manual Knife Sharpener
Highlighted Features
- Tungsten Carbide blades
- 2 stages (sharpening + honing)
- Non-slip bottom
- Smart design for easy placement in drawers
- Beautiful black and chrome color scheme
This manual 2-stage sharpener is an easy and quick way to revive your knives for an excellent performance. With only a couple of swipes, you’ll have shiny and sharp knives again. The coarse slot does the work while the ceramic one hones and polishes the blades.
Thanks to the Tungsten Carbide blades of the 1st stage, the sharpness of your knives will be brought to a whole new level. The second stage will fix nicks or imperfection and hone the blade’s edge.
You can place it on any surface without fearing it will move or slide while using it- this is enabled by the non-slippery, padded bottom. When you’re not using it, the smart design allows you to put it comfy in a drawer or on the countertop.
The black and chrome color scheme will make any kitchen look modern.
In case you’re not 100 percent satisfied with this product, the company ensures you get a full refund.
5. Kitchellence 3-Stage Manual Knife Sharpener
Highlighted Features
- 3-slot system
- Repairs, restores & polishes
- Non-slip base
- Ergonomic handle
- Constructed with strong ABS plastic
- 30-day full money refund
With this amazing 3-slot system, you’ll easily restore your knives without wasting time. The first diamond rod helps repair and strengthen the damaged blade whereas the second one restores its V-shape. In the third slot, you swipe the blade for a final polish.
In addition to the non-slippery base to ensure user safety and prevent damage to the device, you also get a bonus cut-resistant glove for additional comfort. The ergonomic gadget is made with strong ABS plastic. With the right care; it can last for a lifetime.
Since the company believes in its products and their quality, if you’re not entirely satisfied with it, they give a full refund if you return the product within 30 days.
6. iGearPro Manual Knife Sharpener for Straight & Serrated Blades
Highlighted Features
- Preferred by professionals & home cooks
- 2-stage sharpening
- Real bargain
- Full refund option
- Cushion bottom
This manual knife sharpener is trusted and preferred by both professional chefs and home cooks. The two-stage system is simple-to-use- you just pull it several times in one direction in one slot and then in the other and voila- the knife is razor-sharp!
The cushioned bottom ensures the device stays in place at all times.
No matter if your knife is too dull or just needs a touch of an upgrade, with this sharpener, you have a premium mechanism to bring it back to life. For an affordable price, this is definitely a good manual sharpener that will make a suitable addition to your kitchen.
And, no need to think if it will be a good investment or not- they give a full refund or replacement option if you’re not 100 percent satisfied with the product.
7. PreciSHARP 3-Stage Manual Knife Sharpener
Highlighted Features
- Excellent for ceramic blades
- Ergonomic handle
- Sharpening blades already properly angled
- 3-slot system for precise sharpening
- Affordable
If you’re looking for an inexpensive 3-stage manual ergonomically designed sharpener to revive straight edge and ceramic knives effectively and fast, look no more. The use is simplified thanks to the slip-resistant bottom layer and the ideally contoured handle for a comfy grip.
The blades are guided through the surfaces for sharpening at the proper angle so you needn’t worry if you’re doing it right or not. However, ensure you’re only using it with your non-Japanese knives. Ceramic knives are also suitable for them.
Indeed this can be the best straightforward sharpener for those who want to take good care of their set of chef’s knives. However, if you want to sharpen serrated or Japanese knives, make sure you opt for another model.
8. Rada Cutlery Quick Edge Manual Knife Sharpener
Highlighted Features
- Very affordable
- Entirely made in the US
- Dual steel intersecting wheels
- Durable and non-slip nylon bottom
This inexpensive knife sharpener is made in the US and it has so much to offer.
It boasts hardened, high carbon stainless steel wheels which intersect in order to enable sharpening of both sides of the blade simultaneously.
The wheels’ material also makes sure the blades reach the sharpest point with minor effort.
It’s a portable and sturdy device with a nylon base that allows the device to remain in place during use. It’s not just useful for sharpening those dull and forgotten knives in your kitchen, but also the camping and pocket ones.
9. Vremi 4 Stage Manual Knife Sharpener
Highlighted Features
- Suitable for 15- & 20-degree steel knives
- Affordable
- Non-slippery
- Best for users with smaller hands
This dual 2-stage sharpener has two stages for 15-degree knives and two stages for 20-degree knives. Versatile and handy, it’s definitely worth considering if you have various knives in your collection.
For a decent price, you get a device that can sharpen all of your steel knives. The two different sharpening zones are adequately labeled and there is also a transparent cover that you can slide over the slot you are not using.
The handle and the bottom are made of quality rubber and are non-slippery, so the chances for slippages and injuries during usage are brought to a minimum.
This could be the perfect sharpening device for users with smaller hands as the handle is a rather small one. For users with bigger hands, another model with a bigger handle may be more appropriate in terms of comfort level.
10. LOVATIC 2-Stage Manual Sharpener
Highlighted Features
- Suitable for different blades
- High-grade precision
- Can be used on scissors
- Quality ABS plastic
- Non-slippery base
- Ergonomic handle
This manual sharpener model comes with 2 rods that are suitable for distinct types of blades. Without a doubt, this gadget is a synonym for high-grade precision and performance.
By choosing this gadget, you’ll sharpen your knife and scissor blades within seconds, but also fix the blade’s angle.
It’s suitable for both left- and right-handed users and it’s really affordable. We really appreciate the quality ABS plastic used and the non-slippery base and extra comfy handle.
However, it’s important to remind you that serrated blades should only be used in the slot for fine sharpening.
Final Thoughts
Regardless of your culinary expertise, when you use tools, you need to keep them in good shape to reap their benefits. This is especially the case with kitchen knives.
If you have ever used a dull knife to cut through a tomato, you know what we are talking about.
Sharp knives are as important for home cooks as they are for professional chefs.
When all of the knives in your collection are razor-sharp, you cut through foods seamlessly and avert injuries.
One popular method to sharpen your knives is with handheld sharpeners. Today, there are a lot of options to choose from, so it can be tricky to make a decision. This is where our review can help you!
If you’re not limited in terms of budget and you’re looking for nothing less than premium quality, feel free to go with our best pick because it’s definitely a premium product.
For those looking for a manual knife sharpener that will work optimally, but doesn’t want to spend a small fortune on it, the Rada Cutlery model is definitely a smart investment.
