Chef's Choice 470 SteelPro
Many owners of fine knives are intimidated by home sharpening with a steel. The SteelPro takes the guesswork and intimidation out of sharpening, yet still uses the preferred steel method instead of abrasives to create a super-sharp edge. By drawing a blade alternately through one slot then another in the SteelPro approximately ten times, the edge develops micro-serrations that cut food exceptionally well. The guides maintain an angle of approximately 23 degrees. Professional sharpening will still be required periodically in the life of a high-quality knife.Clever design features make this device a pleasure to use. Using a coin, the tops of the two miniature steels can be loosened and the steels rotated when a fresh surface is required. However, the steel is so hard that several thousand strokes are needed to dull it even slightly. The sure-grip handle is comfortable for either left- or right-handed users, and a ring allows the sharpener to be hung. The glossy, chrome-look base is actually a durable plastic but looks smart in the modern kitchen and stays put during use thanks to small rubber feet. Not for use with scissors, serrated knives, or ceramic knives, the SteelPro is covered by a one-year warranty and measures 7 by 2 by 2-3/4 inches.--Ann Bieri