Zwilling Twin 1731 Sharpening Steel

This is a honing steel, not a sharpener. It is designed to realign the microscopic edge of your blade, which keeps your knife cutting smoothly between professional sharpenings, rather than removing metal to create a new edge.

Because tungsten carbide is very effective at realigning edges, you only need light pressure. Maintain a consistent angle—typically 15 to 20 degrees—and draw the blade down the rod in a smooth, controlled motion.

The handle is made of natural hardwood, so it should never be submerged in water or put in the dishwasher. Simply wipe the handle with a damp cloth and dry it immediately after use to preserve the wood's grain and integrity.

Yes, the integrated finger guard provides a physical barrier between your hand and the blade as you draw the knife down the rod. It is a helpful safety feature, though you should always maintain focus and proper technique when honing.

While the rod itself is durable, the Twin 1731 features an integrated hanging loop specifically designed for storage. Hanging it by the loop is the recommended way to keep it accessible and protected from damage.