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Knife Sharpeners
We test sharpeners on real knives, from guided systems to stones, rods and pull-throughs. The right one depends on your knives, your skill and how much time you want to spend. Our favorite all-rounder is the Spyderco Sharpmaker.
Edited by Matt Davidson · How We Test
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Best Knife Sharpening Systems
1Best OverallSpyderco Sharpmaker
2Best BudgetLansky Universal System
3Best for Pocket KnivesWork Sharp Guided Field Sharpener
Best Hunting Knife Sharpeners
1Best OverallWork Sharp Guided Field Sharpener
2Best HandheldDull Boy Blades Sharpener
3Best TabletopWork Sharp Precision Adjust
Best Honing Rods
1Best OverallWork Sharp Ceramic Honing Rod
2Best BudgetSmith’s 8-Inch Oval Ceramic
3Best SteelF. Dick Multicut
How to Choose a Knife Sharpener
Guided System or Freehand
Guided systems hold the angle for you and are the easiest way to a consistent edge. Freehand stones take practice but give you full control and work on almost any blade.
See Sharpening Systems →Hone Before You Sharpen
A honing rod straightens a rolled edge in seconds and can put off a full sharpening for a good while. Hone often, and sharpen only when honing stops working.
See Honing Rods →Match the Abrasive to Your Steel
Hard, wear-resistant steels like S90V sharpen slowly on ordinary stones. Diamond and ceramic abrasives cut them much faster.
Compare Knife Steels →Keep Pull-Throughs for Touch-Ups
Pull-through sharpeners are quick but remove more metal and can chip thin edges. They’re fine for beater knives, not your best blade.
See Pull-Through Sharpeners →
Pocket Knives
Tactical & OTF
Hunting & Outdoor