Favorite Steel for steeling knives?

Raver · Aug 10, 2001

Who makes the best steel for steeling (not blade steel), and where can I get it? I have been using the one that came with my inexpensive (but better than I had before) kitchen knives, with some success on my folders and fixed blades. It has rounded longtitudinal grooves. I read in the sharpening FAQ that some folks prefer a smooth steel.

On a related note, has anybody ever thought of using a steel as a sort of guardless sai?

Crayola · Aug 10, 2001

Best: f.Dick or Razor Edge (the Jon Juranich stuff.)

I have both, and use both. GREAT stuff. Get a smooth one.

AntDog · Aug 10, 2001

I agree - you need a good smooth steel. Those ridged steels do align your edge, but they take off metal too. The one I use is from www.handamerican.com. It works great, and saves you from grinding your knife down to nothing sharpening it again and again.

medusaoblongata · Aug 10, 2001

I've found that Lansky guide rods will work in a pinch.

PhilL · Aug 10, 2001

I just had a thread a couple of days ago on Bernard Levine's Forum that was very informative.
http://www.bladeforums.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=163693

Bernard and Ed Fowler both seemed to think an F. Dick "Slick" steel was the best. I haven't ordered one yet, but I know I will. In the meantime I've been using a drinking glass that has a 15º angle on it, works great.

Raver · Aug 10, 2001

Thanks for the info guys, keep it coming. Does anyone know of a good source for F. Dick "Slick" steels?

PhilL · Aug 10, 2001

Originally posted by Raver
Does anyone know of a good source for F. Dick "Slick" steels?

http://www.butchersupply.net/

Raptor · Aug 10, 2001

I'm going to agree with AntDog and second his vote for the Hand American Glass Smooth Steel.

Also, see this thread Review....Hand American Glass Smooth Steel, for a more in depth look at what this steel has to offer.

*Note-By only voting for this steel I am not stating that the others are inferior in anyway shape or form but rather that I have no personal experience with them. I have, however, heard from many forumites that the RazorEdge Steel is top notch and I plan to add one to my sharpening arsenal soon.

--The Raptor--