Sharpening steel

[RocW]

I'm not sure that this is the right section of the Answerbank but I can't see a more appropriate one. Has anyone out there any ideas on buying a knife sharpening steel? Over the years we have bought several but they seem to lose their sharpening powers after a short time. Should I try a ceramic one? My mum seemed to manage quite well with the kitchen step but that doesn't seem to work so well for me.

[Clanad]

A standard steel will work just fine if you realize its purpose. During use, any blade sharpened to a fine edge will result in that fine edge (almost microscopic) "turning"... actually roll slightly and that results in dullness. The edge hasn't been damaged as when you might nick the blade hitting a bone or some such. For correcting that damage, a whet stone is required.
The steel's purpose is to simply roll that edge back upright. It does very little in removing any nicks or other such damage. That's the reason you would feel no roughness when running your hand up or down the steel... it's perfectly smooth.
My guess is that you may not have had proper tutelage in its use. Most of us see the experienced user holding the steel in one hand and quickly moving it and the blade to be sharpened in a combined motion...
For the novice, try holding the steel by the handle and place the tip on a cutting board... with the steel nearly perpindicular to the board... like you were about to stab the cutting board. Then, place the blade against it with the handle of the blade nearest the shaft of the steel and pull it upwards... do the same thing alternating sides of the blade. Don't exert very much force against the blade while it's being pulled up the steel... Only takes 8 or 10 times per side to achieve a nice edge...
Best of luck!

[bookend]

Good advice from Clanad as usual. If I could add that we've got a Kitchen Devils steel that's remained sharp for years. I was shown how to use a steel by a local friendly butcher. They have a wealth of experience if you can find one with time to spare.

[heathfield]

Some years ago I came across this website devoted to knife sharpening that's more than comprehensive. It's been my 'bible' ever since. Covers all aspects, and tells you more about the subject than you'll ever need to know. (I'll bet Clanad has it bookmarked too!!).

http://users.ameritech.net/knives/

[valerieb1254]

When I was little ( long time ago ) I can remember my mum sharpening her knives on the front doorstep.( Happy days )

[sad old git]

I know this sounds a bit daft but if you roll down the side window of your car door you can use the edge of the glass to sharpen your knives; it works I've tried it. S.O.G