ZWILLING Diamond Sharpening Steel, 12-inch

UPC Code: 230173, dimension: 18.75x4.5x1.75 inches

Although steels are often touted as sharpening tools, few can actually sharpen knife blades. Instead, they perform the vital task of realigning or "resetting" edges that have become bent from contacting a cutting surface or other hard object. This particular steel, however, is equipped with diamond dust on its surface, making it hard enough to slightly sharpen a blade. While using this steel won't replace a professional sharpening job, which involves a progression from coarse grinding to ever-finer grinding at tightly controlled angles, it will help extend the time between sharpenings.

The diamond-coated surface allows this steel to outperform a traditional steel without diamond dust, as it can accomplish the final task of a professional sharpening: polishing the edge to a fine point while realigning the edge. The rule of thumb is that a steel should be at least as long as the knife blade being drawn across it, and this 12-inch steel can handle all household knives. The steel also carries a lifetime warranty against defects.

Compared to a traditional rod-shaped steel, this flat-surfaced model provides more contact with the knife edge, allowing it to achieve the same results with fewer strokes. This makes the sharpening process both safer and more efficient. Additionally, no assembly is required, as the steel is ready to use straight out of the box. The German engineering behind this product ensures a high-quality and reliable tool.

In summary, this diamond-coated steel is a versatile and effective tool for maintaining the sharpness of household knives. Its unique design and features make it a superior alternative to traditional sharpening steels, helping to keep your blades in top condition with minimal effort.

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