How to Sharpen a Serrated Knife

Just like a plain edge knife, a serrated knife will eventually get dull when you use it. However with the right tools, you can restore a serrated knife to its original sharpness. Here's how.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Serration sharpener or sharpening kit with serration options
• Water or lubricant

1. Set up your sharpening tool and follow the directions for the particular model you are using.

2. Work the hone, which should be perpendicular to the cutting edge of the knife, in a back-and-forth motion. Apply firm pressure.

3. Stop occasionally to feel the backside of the blade for a raised burr.

4. Move onto the next serrated tooth section when you feel or see the raised burr.

5. Complete this process until the ground side of the knife is completely ground. Turn the knife over.

6. Grind the burrs off the knife with a light grind of the hone. Do not sharpen the backside of the knife.

Tips & Warnings

• Partially serrated knives, ground at a factory, usually have an angle of 20 to 25 degrees, which is the same as the plain-edged portion of the knife.
• Check with a local kitchen supply store to find a professional knife sharpener if you need expert assistance. Many kitchen specialty stores have a professional knife sharpener visit their store several times a year.
• A serrated knife should be sharpened only one tooth at a time.