How to Vet Your Knife Sharpener: A Guide to Protecting Your Blades
Lately, I’ve seen an uptick in clients bringing me knives that were poorly sharpened—or even damaged—by someone else. It’s frustrating because these issues often stem from improper sharpening techniques, not normal use. As the older generation of skilled sharpeners retires, I’m seeing fewer properly trained newcomers stepping into this critical trade.
This is why it’s so important to choose your sharpener carefully. If you can’t find a trusted professional locally, here are a few ways to vet potential sharpeners and ensure your knives are in safe hands:
1. Check Client Reviews & Photos
This is my favorite method because it’s straightforward and real. Look for photos of knives sharpened by the professional and honest reviews from clients. While I’ve heard that some reviews (especially Google ones) might not always be genuine, screenshots of direct client feedback are usually more reliable.
Personally, I reach out to my clients after a few weeks to ask for their feedback and post their responses—screenshots and all! This transparency not only builds trust but shows the results of my work in action.
2. Ask Key Questions
a. What angle do you use?
Angles matter—a lot. For instance:
• Kitchen knives: 15-20°
• Japanese knives: 10-15°
• Outdoor/utility knives: 20-25°
A good sharpener will determine the exact angle based on the knife’s condition and use case.
b. What tools do you use?
Any tool can sharpen a knife, but the skill level required varies.
• Whetstones: Great control and versatility.
• Belt Systems: Ideal for high volume but require expertise to manage heat and material removal.
• Precision Manual Tools: Offer a hybrid of control and efficiency.
No skilled sharpener relies solely on one tool. Personally, I use a mix of all three depending on the knife. If someone claims to only use whetstones, that might be a red flag.
c. How do you communicate with clients?
I wouldn’t hand over my knives to someone who doesn’t communicate well. Clear communication builds trust, especially when you’re working with a sharpener for the first time. I keep my clients updated throughout the process:
• When I receive and inspect their knives.
• When the sharpening is complete.
• When their knives are ready for pick-up or delivery.
Trust is built on transparency.
3. Fun Real Fact
A potential client once asked me: “How do I know you won’t just take my knife and disappear?” I laughed and replied honestly: “You don’t! You just have to trust me!” (Spoiler: They did trust me—and now they’re a regular client.)
At the end of the day, trust is everything in this business, and I work hard to earn it with every knife I handle.
Remember: Sharper knives aren’t just better—they’re safer! Choose your sharpener wisely.
William: 437-986-8686
Email: william@SDSK.ca
