Sharpening questions, answered
The things people ask David most. Can’t find yours? Call or text (760) 525-8914.
Sharpening
How often should I get my knives sharpened?
For most home kitchens, a professional sharpening once or twice a year is enough, as long as you hone in between. A few strokes on a honing steel every week, or every time you cook, keeps the edge straight. Restaurants and heavy users need it more often. See Sharpening vs. honing.
What can you sharpen?
Almost anything with a blade: kitchen and chef’s knives, serrated bread knives, hunting and pocket knives, cleavers and machetes, scissors and shears, horse clipper blades, pruners and pruning shears, lawn mower blades, axes and hatchets, carbide saw blades and wood chipper blades. See knives, scissors, garden tools and saw blades.
Is there anything you can’t sharpen?
If you’re not sure about a tool, text a photo before you book. David will tell you honestly whether he can do it and whether it’s worth it.
Can you sharpen serrated knives?
Yes. Serrated bread knives are a regular part of the job, including ones people were about to throw away.
Will sharpening damage my knives?
Not the way David does it. He uses a slow, water-cooled wet stone, so the edge never gets hot enough to soften the steel, the way it can on a fast dry grinder. Then he removes the burr and polishes the edge. More in The Science of Sharp.
What if I’m not happy with the result?
Test your tools before David leaves. If you’re not satisfied, he’ll make it right.
Visits, pricing and payment
How much does it cost?
It depends on the tool and its condition, so the quickest way to a price is to text a photo to (760) 525-8914. David will tell you before you book.
How do mobile visits work?
Book online or call or text (760) 525-8914. David confirms the time, usually within 24 hours, then arrives and sets up beside his van in your driveway or parking lot. He sharpens everything on the spot while you watch or carry on with your day, and you test the results before he goes.
How long does it take?
Most visits are done while you wait, usually in under an hour. A big batch, like a whole knife block plus garden tools and scissors, can take a few hours.
How far do you travel?
What payment methods do you take?
Ask when David confirms your visit, or call or text (760) 525-8914.
Can I bring my knives somewhere instead of booking a visit?
Yes, David has regular stops:
- Skinny Jake's Smokehouse, Valley Center: Saturdays, 9:00 AM to close
- Escondido Farmers Market, Escondido: Tuesdays, 2:30 PM – 6:30 PM
Check the calendar for this month, or call before you drive over.
Still have a question?
Text a photo for a quote, or book a visit and David will confirm within 24 hours.