FAQ
How do you know that your knife is not sharp?
Your wife will tell you
When you slice or chop an onion, you cry. This is because the knife edge is crushing the onion instead of cutting it
You have to "saw" through the item you are cutting
How often do I need to have my knives sharpened
Your wife will tell you
There are a lot of things that go into how fast a knife goes dull. Starting with how much you use it, what you cut on and how you store your knives. I find that paring knives are used most often and are used on hard surfaces. Chefs knives are not used as often and usually you get the cutting board out. That said, 12 months after they are sharpened you probably need them have them sharpened again. For a paring knife, that may be 6 months.
What about garden tools and scissors?
Your wife will tell you
Pruners, loppers and hedge trimmers should be sharpened once a year. Maybe two years if they are not used much. All other garden tools probably 3 to 4 years. Again, it depends on how much you use them
Household scissors, 3 to 4 years. Sewing scissors, 2 to 4 years
How should I store my knives?
Your wife will tell you
Any place except a drawer (unless you have sleeves for them). The best is a magnetic knife holder. Next would be a wood block holder.
Do you sharpen Japanese/Asian knives?
I do! I usually do a 16 degree bevel on each side but I can do whatever bevel angle you want.
Do you sharpen serrated knives?
I do! One exception are CutCo brand serrated knives. Those do need to be sent back to CutCo for sharpening.
Any recommendations for a buying knives?
Your wife will tell you
Personally I like the Victorinox brand. The are light and keep a sharp edge for a long time. They are also very affordable. I would also recommend that you go some place like Crate and Barrel, Sur La Table or Williams Sonoma and try out some knives. There are many different handle styles and weights to choose from. Find one that feels right for you.
What if I want to sharpen my own knives or scissors?
This sharpener is my favorite. It will sharpen knives, scissors and other items. It also comes with a very good instruction manual. You can also find stones and guides from this company. Also, their website had some great how to videos. Just remember, it takes practice. Check the thrift stores to see if they have some knives for you to practice with.
Do you have a shop where I could drop off my knives and tools?
I do not. I only sharpen at the market.