I new to this forum but no stranger blade maintenance. I’m very picky about my kitchen knives, especially in regards to sharpness. I enjoy cooking a great deal and I learned long ago to invest in a handful of items that were durable and high-quality. When you’re using a knife, pan, etc every day its reliability makes everything else easier.
Of course, I highly doubt my opinion here is breaking news to any members here. But if any of you are like me and want something relatively simple to keep those blades sharp, I suggest the EdgeCraft 220 Hybrid sharpener by Chef’s Choice. It’s a 2-stage sharpener; an electric stage to sharpen then a manual stage to hone. Both stages utilize diamond abrasive wheels and is (or was when I was researching it) endorsed by brands like Wustof, Henckels, Shun, etc. It’s also idiot proof, comes w/ clear instructions, and available on Amazon for about $40. I believe there’s a newer version of this model but I haven’t used it.
I’ll add that my husband, a Marine Corps SgtMaj (retired after 26yrs active duty)-whose EDC includes a Winkler knife on his belt-has used my lowly sharpener on several blades of his. Not the Winkler, but still. (I like to add that the first gift he ever gave me was a Kershaw knife I still carry. THAT is true love.)
At this point I’ve either exposed myself as a complete idiot who knows nothing about proper blade maintenance, or I’ve suggested a decent sharpener that doesn’t break the bank. I’m here to learn more bec really, there’s always something more to learn about sharp, shiny pointy things.