Opinel 10-Inch Honing Steel Sharpening Rod – the French-made daily edge maintainer for kitchen knives and tools. Best for home cooks learning proper knife care. Current price: $22.50, half off the $45 compare-at price. Buy online and use coupon BENCH10 for an extra 10% off.
How Do You Use an Opinel Honing Steel?
Hold the rod vertically with the tip resting on a cutting board. Place the heel of your knife against the steel near the handle at roughly a 15–20 degree angle. Draw the blade down and toward you in a smooth arc so the full edge contacts the rod, finishing at the tip. Repeat 4–6 strokes per side, alternating sides.
What Angle Should I Use?
Aim for 15–20 degrees – match the factory edge angle of most kitchen knives. A slightly steeper 20 degrees works well for Opinel's 12C27 stainless blades.
Does It Sharpen or Just Hone?
It hones. This rod realigns the existing edge rather than grinding away metal to create a new edge. Use a whetstone when steel removal is needed; use this honing steel frequently between sharpenings.
How Often Should I Use It?
Quick daily driver: hone before or after each cooking session for best performance. Frequent honing keeps blades in tip-top shape and extends time between full sharpenings.
Specifications
- Brand: Opinel
- Product Type: Honing steel / sharpening rod
- Length: 10 inches
- Handle: Sustainably harvested European beech wood, engraved crowned hand logo
- Feature: Leather lanyard
- Origin: French Alps, since 1890
Compatibility and Use Cases
Works with kitchen knives, folding knives, and most edged tools – ideal for new chefs building good maintenance habits at home or on vacation.
Price and Deal Value
$22.50 vs $45 = $22.50 in savings. Stack BENCH10 for an additional 10%. Orders over $45 ship free.
