Here’s the deal: even the best knives get dull with use.
But before you break out the sharpener, grab a honing steel. It doesn’t grind metal away—it realigns the edge, keeping your blades cutting cleanly between sharpenings.
I tested 8 honing steels available on Amazon U.S., from stainless classics to ceramic and diamond-coated rods.
Here’s the sharp lineup for 2026.
Wüsthof 10-Inch Honing Steel
- Material: Magnetic steel
- Length: 10 inches
- Grip: Slip-resistant handle
Why I like it: A reliable, no-fuss steel from a top knife brand. Long enough for chef’s knives, sturdy, and made to last decades.
Shun Classic 9-Inch Honing Steel
- Material: Stainless steel with micro-ribbed and smooth sides
- Length: 9 inches
- Bonus: Angled guide for precision honing
Why I like it: The guide angle makes honing foolproof. Flip between ribbed and smooth surfaces depending on how much realignment your knife needs.
Messermeister Ceramic Rod 12-Inch
- Material: Ceramic (fine grit)
- Length: 12 inches
- Best for: Gentle realignment + light sharpening
Why I like it: The ceramic finish adds a touch of sharpening while honing. Long length gives you control over big blades.
DMT Diamond 12-Inch Honing Steel
- Material: Diamond-coated steel
- Length: 12 inches
- Edge: Adds bite while honing
Why I like it: For seriously dull knives, diamond grit helps add micro-serrations while realigning. It’s aggressive but effective.
Mac White Ceramic Honing Rod
- Material: White ceramic (extra fine)
- Length: 10.5 inches
- Performance: Polishes and hones
Why I like it: Sleek and fine-grit—great for Japanese knives that need gentle maintenance without removing much steel.
Victorinox 10-Inch Honing Steel
- Material: Stainless steel
- Length: 10 inches
- Grip: Ergonomic, slip-resistant handle
Why I like it: Affordable and effective. Keeps your everyday knives in line without breaking the bank.
Dalstrong Gladiator Series Honing Steel
- Material: High-carbon steel
- Length: 10 inches
- Design: Triple-riveted handle, polished finish
Why I like it: Stylish, sturdy, and affordable. A good match for Dalstrong or similar knives.
Zwilling J.A. Henckels 12-Inch Honing Steel
- Material: German stainless steel
- Length: 12 inches
- Durability: Heavy-duty and built to last
Why I like it: Long, sturdy, and pro-grade. A solid pick for sharpening enthusiasts and pros who hone daily.
Buying Guide – Honing Steels
Material
Steel: Great for everyday realignment. Ceramic: Gentle honing with a touch of sharpening. Diamond: Aggressive, ideal for duller knives.
Length
10–12 inches is ideal—long enough to handle chef’s knives safely without feeling unwieldy.
Handle
Comfortable grips are essential. Non-slip or ergonomic handles reduce accidents during fast honing.
FAQs
Do honing steels sharpen knives?
Not exactly. Honing steels realign the blade edge, while sharpeners remove metal to restore sharpness. Some ceramic and diamond rods add mild sharpening.
How often should I hone my knives?
For home cooks, once a week keeps blades in shape. Pro chefs often hone daily before service.
Is ceramic better than steel?
Ceramic rods are gentler and add light sharpening. Steel rods are more durable for daily honing. Diamond rods are best for dull or hard steel knives.