If your knives have become dull, it’s time to revive them and the fastest way is to sharpen them. There are various knife sharpening tools out there and if you have never sharpened your knives before, it’s natural to feel puzzled about which tool to use.
While grinder stones and electric sharpeners are the two most popular options, they might not suit your type of blade. If you’re wondering whether you should choose a bench stone or an electric sharpener, it’s helpful to understand the differences as well as the pros and cons of each so you can determine which options suit your needs best.
Why Pick a Bench Stone?
Bench stones, grinder stones, sharpening stones, and whetstones – they all refer to the same tool, they are just different names used in the world of knife sharpening.
So, what is a bench stone? Basically, it’s a flat, rectangular sharpening tool available in various grit levels, from coarse to fine so you can adjust the level of sharpness you want for your blade. They are typically made from natural materials or synthetic compounds like aluminium oxide or silicon carbide. Some require presoaking in water for about 5 minutes, while others require just a splash of water before use. They are ideal for sharpening Japanese knives as their fine grit level can sharpen the blade, without damaging the delicate edge.
Precise Control
Unlike electric sharpeners which can be a bit too aggressive sometimes, especially when it comes to Japanese blades and their delicate edges, grinder stones are less aggressive and allow you to work at your own pace, applying the exact pressure you need. You can carefully focus on specific areas of the blade for a fine edge and they give you precise control over the sharpening process.
Ideal for Delicate Blades Such as Japanese Knives
Although Japanese knives are known for their razor-sharp blades, their edges are still somewhat more delicate than standard Western knives. If you own Japanese knives, it is recommended to use a whetstone to sharpen them and preserve the blade’s shape and sharpness. An electric sharpener poses a risk of damaging the fine Japanese knife’s edge.
You Can Adjust the Sharpness to Your Needs
Sharpening stones come in different grit levels so you can pick the grit you need for your knives. You can find them as single or double-sided stones which come with two different grit levels. Whether you need a coarser blade’s edge for general chopping or a razor-sharp edge for slicing, the stone allows you to tailor the sharpness to suit your cooking style.
Long-Lasting
Whetstones offer great value for the money because, with proper care, they can last for years. They don’t wear down quickly like other sharpening tools which means that you get a reliable tool that remains effective and consistently delivers quality results without the need for frequent replacements.
Require Little Maintenance
There isn’t much you need to do really to maintain your stones. Simply rinse the stone after each use to create away metal particles and that’s it. It’s ready for the next use.
Why Pick Electric Knife Sharpeners?
Quick and Efficient
If you’re looking for a sharpening tool that can deliver immediate results, then you will love electric knife sharpeners. Electric tools run on a motorised wheel which accelerates the sharpening process. Theory can sharpen your knife in minutes, which is a highly valued feature in busy kitchens where chefs rely on sharp knives to keep up with the pace and ongoing orders.
Their efficiency is especially helpful when you have multiple knives to maintain or give a quick restoration.
Beginner-Friendly
Unlike other sharpening tools which require putting in physical effort, the electric sharpener is instead doing the job. They are incredibly user-friendly sharpening tools as most models come with slots at the right angle, so there is no guesswork involved. Their ease of use makes them a great choice for beginners and those who want results without the learning curve that comes with the rest of the sharpening tools.
Less Physical Effort
With electric sharpeners, all you need to do is slide the knife through, and the machine takes care of the rest. No physical effort is required, the machine is doing the heavy lifting for you. Thus, they are ideal for those who prefer a less demanding sharpening method.
Great for Maintaining Blades in Between Professional Sharpenings
While excellent for regular maintenance, electric sharpeners are not a substitute for professional sharpening. You should use them to maintain your knives in good condition between professional sessions so you can consistently have a sharp edge without as much wear and tear.
Suitable for Regular Knives
Electric sharpeners are best to use for everyday kitchen knives. While perfect for keeping your go-to knives sharp, they are not suitable for Japanese knives and their delicate edges. Japanese knives require a gentler approach, so it’s good to clear up any confusion about electric sharpeners and that they are not the best choice for delicate blades.
