Sharpening Global knives come out of the factory in Japan with a very sharp edge and CROMOVA 18, Globals unique blade material, ensures that this sharpness will be maintained longer than most other knives.  However, Global knives need to be sharpened from time to time to maintain their keen edge.  As a general rule, the best sharpening tool for an individual is one that he or she is going to use. Each tool is different and may be easy or difficult to use depending on the individual and their level of experience or skill.

Global recommends periodically sharpening your knives using either a waterstone or ceramic stone. In between stone sharpenings, it is recommended that you use the Global fine ceramic or diamond rod to keep the edges of your knives aligned.

Waterstones & Ceramic Stones There are various types of waterstones & ceramic stones available and normally a medium grit stone is sufficient to start with.  However, if the blade is blunt or damaged, it may be necessary to start with rough grit.  There are several differences between waterstones and ceramic stones.  A waterstone must be placed in water and allowed to soak for 10-15 minutes to allow it to absorb sufficient moisture.  A ceramic stone also requires water, but only needs to soak in water for 3-5 minutes.  A ceramic stone is harder than a waterstone, so it will sharpen your knives more quickly.  A ceramic stone will last longer and will not develop valleys or grooves as easily as a waterstone.

Regardless of the size or type of stone you are using, the procedures for sharpening are as follows:

1.        The stone should be soaked for the required amount of time before use.

2.        Hold the knife so that the blade meets the stone at a 10-15 degree angle, then push back and forth across the stone in smooth steady strokes maintaining the same angle.  Maintaining the same angle is most important and you will know that you are maintaining the same angle from the sound the knife makes against the stone.  If you are making the same sound with each stroke back and forth against the stone, you are maintaining the same angle.

3.        Repeat the stage above on both sides of the blade going from one side to the other until your knife is sharp and there are no burrs on either side.

4.        During sharpening a certain amount of wet powder will appear, but do not wash or wipe this residue and continue sharpening.  Although this powder appears unsightly, it is this residue which sharpens the knives.

5.        After sharpening, your knives should be washed in hot water and then towel dried.

NOTE Achieving the correct angle is sometimes difficult, particular for beginners.  Most Global stockists will carry a product called MinoSharp Sharpening Guide Rails which help to achieve the correct angle when using waterstones and ceramic stones.
 

Ceramic & Diamond Rods Stone sharpening is the best way to sharpen any knives, not just Global knives. In between stone sharpenings you can use Globals ceramic or diamond rods.  These sharpeners are used in the same way that traditional steels are used to sharpen other knives and, as they are made from the two hardest materials known to man, are suitable for sharpening all good quality knives.  The diamond rod is harder than the ceramic rod and will bring back an edge quicker. The diamond rod also will not break if it is hit or dropped like the ceramic rod. However, the ceramic rod will give a finer edge if used regularly and replacements may be purchased if you break your ceramic rod.