ZWILLING J.A. Henckels Double Cut Honing Steel

Okay, this is expensive. Now that this is behind us, let me say that I love this honing rod! If you're interested in buying this then you already know why it is a good idea in general. This one is unusual, in that it has four vertical quadrants: one pair has the traditional ridges, the other pair is smooth. Each part of a pair is opposite the other and these parts alternate. You use the ridged pair to smooth out the edges of the blade (of course), and then rotate the rod 90 degrees to do a final smoothing, almost polishing. A little weird, but it works like a charm. I think I'll be able to double the time between actual sharpenings, and we use at least four knives every day. I would support Cook's Illustrated's choice of the Kramer by Zwilling as the best honing rod. If you're thinking about buying a honing rod, and can afford this one, then I'm pretty sure you won't be disappointed.

Very good honing steel. Quality and hardness of the steel can be felt the first time it meets a blade. The double cut makes it even more versatile. I knocked it off a star because mine was poorly assembled. The handle is not indexed at perfect 90 degrees relative to the textures of the steel. I have to visually look at the steel to know which texture my knife would come in contact with, rather than just holding the handle and knowing. Disappointing for a Kramer line of product. Build quality aside, it is A+.

A steel is an essential part of keeping the edge on your knives. The Twilling steel, is a must.

This is the ATK recommended honing rod and it performs up to the hype.

When I first got this I was blown away at the size difference between this, and my other steel. The weight is noticeable. But, the dual grits? Seem to work great on my Shun and Steelport knives. Once you get used to the size and heft, it works great. It actually got me to slow down and actually feel the edge.