How to Use a Honing Rod (Sharpening Steel) Properly Many people ask, how do you sharpen a knife with a rod? The answer might surprise you. A honing rod — also called a sharpening steel, knife steel, or honing steel — does not actually sharpen a knife in the traditional sense. Instead, it realigns the […]
Author Archives: travisblades
Honing vs Sharpening: What Is the Difference? Many knife owners ask the same question: is honing the same as sharpening a knife?Although the two terms are often used together, they describe very different actions. Understanding this difference helps you care for your knives correctly and avoid unnecessary frustration in the kitchen. Before choosing the right […]
How Often Should I Sharpen My Knives? A sharp knife is safer, faster, and far more enjoyable to use. Yet one of the most common questions we hear from home cooks and professionals alike is: how often should I sharpen my knives? The short answer? It depends on how you use them, what you cut, […]
Knife Sharpness Test: How Sharp Is Your Knife Really? In South African kitchens, a sharp knife isn’t a luxury — it’s a necessity. Whether you’re prepping a braai, slicing biltong, cooking for the family, or working in a professional kitchen, knife sharpness affects safety, speed, and results.If you’re not sure how sharp your knife really […]
What Is the Best Method to Sharpen Knives in South Africa? We’ve all struggled with a dull knife. It slips, tears food, and makes cooking frustrating. Sharp knives, on the other hand, make chopping easier, safer, and even a little satisfying. If you’ve asked yourself, “what is the best method to sharpen knives?” you’re in […]
How a Sharp Steak Knife Improves the Steak Experience A sharp steak knife changes how steak feels, tastes, and looks on the plate. Many people focus on the cut of meat or the cooking method, but the knife used at the table also matters. A sharp steak knife allows clean cuts, protects juices, and keeps […]
How Professionals Sharpen Pocket Knives Using the Tormek System Pocket knives are designed for precision cutting, daily utility, and reliability — but even the best knife won’t perform well when dull. If you’ve ever wondered how professional sharpeners achieve such clean, razor-sharp edges, this guide breaks down exactly what happens behind the scenes, especially when […]
Sharpness is not just a matter of efficiency in animal slaughter—it’s a crucial component of humane treatment, safety, and meat quality. Whether it’s on a small-scale farm, a traditional abattoir, or a home butchery setup, using a sharp blade is one of the most important factors in ensuring the process is ethical, safe, and effective. […]
How to Debone a Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide Deboning a chicken is a valuable kitchen skill that can save you money, reduce waste, and elevate your culinary game. Whether you’re preparing chicken roulade or simply prefer boneless cuts, this guide will walk you through the process with clear steps. All you need is a whole […]
Sharpening Wüsthof Knives – What You Need to Know Wüsthof knives are made in Solingen, Germany, and are known for their strength, balance, and edge retention. These knives are popular with chefs and home cooks who want dependable performance in the kitchen. But like all knives, even a Wüsthof needs regular sharpening to stay effective […]









