Tokyo Knives

Find your next knife

Miyabi Birchwood 9-Inch Sharpening Steel. A rod can be part of a regular edge-care routine when its surface and the knife are a suitable match. Select the maintenance method for the blade rather than assuming every sharpening steel performs the same job.

At a glance

  • Rod-style maintenance

    Use a controlled stroke along a rod only when that maintenance method suits the knife and its edge.

  • Working length

    Choose enough rod length to guide the blade without running the tip beyond the supported working area.

  • Steady setup

    Hold the tool securely and keep the guiding hand away from the knife’s cutting path.

Find your fit

Use our honing-rod and whetstone comparison to distinguish maintenance from sharpening. For a dull or damaged edge, choosing the appropriate abrasive may be a better starting point than adding pressure on a rod.

Care and storage

Follow the rod and knife instructions for angle, pressure and cleaning. Work slowly on a secure surface, wipe away residue after use and store the rod dry. Avoid striking the knife against the rod or making fast, uncontrolled passes.