Sharpening slicer blades is an essential maintenance technique that helps to preserve the quality of the blade and ensure accurate cuts and reduced product waste. Over time, even the best slicer blades can become dull and require a sharpening session to get back to their optimal level of performance. Fortunately, there are several convenient and user-friendly slicer sharpeners on the market that can quickly and easily recondition your meat or fish slicer’s cutting edge in a matter of minutes.
The best slicer sharpeners are easy to use and have clear, straightforward instructions that make the process simple enough for even novice cooks to follow. Before you start the sharpening process, it’s important to put on some cut-resistant gloves so that you don’t accidentally get a cut or abrasion while handling the blade. It’s also a good idea to remove the food carriage and clean all of the removable parts with warm, soapy water and a degreasing solution before you start sharpening.
If you’re not sure which slicer sharpeners to buy, consider the type of blade that you use and the cutting style that you prefer. Most electric sharpeners can accommodate both straight and serrated blades, but some models may have special features that cater to specific types of knives. For example, some models feature a dedicated slot for scissors or other types of blades that require a more delicate touch when sharpening.
Another consideration is the amount of power that you want your slicer sharpener to have. While many people don’t mind using a powerful model, others may find them too overwhelming. In this case, it’s a good idea to look for a mid-range or entry-level model that has just the right amount of power for your needs.
Once you’ve removed the food carriage and cleaned all of the removable parts, you can start the sharpening process by placing a sharpening stone against the blade. Most slicers are equipped with sharpening stones, but if yours isn’t, you can usually buy one separately to accommodate your particular slicer blade. Most sharpening stones come with multiple grit options that you can choose from depending on the type of blade you’re working with and your preferred angle of sharpening. After you’ve completed a few passes with the sharpening stone, it’s a good idea to apply a few drops of oil to the blade to protect it and prevent rust. Once the blade is sufficiently oiled, you can finish the sharpening process by honing it on a hone rod to create an ultra-sharp edge. Be careful when using a hone rod and only apply light pressure to the blade. Overdoing it can cause the knife to develop a burr that can damage your skin. The best way to avoid this is to practice with a few light strokes while experimenting with different angles. Then, once you’ve got the hang of it, you can apply light pressure consistently for longer strokes. This will allow you to achieve a very precise and functional edge that is both durable and easy to use.