How To Sharpen A Knife Without A Sharpener [Using 10 Everyday ...

Whether you’re out in the wilderness with only a few pieces of gear or can’t find a sharp knife to save your life, a knife sharpener isn’t always there when you need it most. Fortunately, knowing the basics of how to sharpen a knife and some creative thinking, you can sharpen or hone your blade using a variety of common household items.

Before we delve into things, it’s important to understand what we mean by “sharpening.” Technically, sharpening refers to removing metal from the blade to create a new, keener edge.

Not all of these objects will sharpen a knife in the truest sense of the word like a traditional knife sharpener. Honing or stropping, doesn’t remove metal but realigns the existing edge to make the knife perform sharper. Many of the methods below fall into one of these two categories—and both can be useful in a pinch.

Here are 10 everyday items you can use to sharpen or hone your knife when a traditional sharpener isn’t available:

Coffee Mug

A ceramic mug with an unglazed bottom edge can function much like a sharpening stone. Just flip the mug over, find the rough ring on the base, and drag the blade across it at a 15–20 degree angle. If it’s working, you’ll see a dark line where the metal is being removed. This method is surprisingly effective and readily available in most kitchens.

Leather Belt

While it won’t sharpen in the strictest sense, a leather belt is perfect for stropping your knife, which realigns the edge and improves sharpness. Avoid belts with stitching or embossing, and always strop by moving the blade away from its edge. This method is especially useful for touch-ups after using one of the more abrasive methods listed.

Sandpaper

Sandpaper is a solid substitute for sharpening stones. Start with a coarse grit (around 200–400) to shape the edge and finish with a finer grit (800–1000 or more) for polishing. You can even tape the sandpaper to a flat surface like a table or a wooden board to give yourself more control.

Nail File

A nail file can be used much like sandpaper. It’s small, portable, and surprisingly effective at sharpening knives, especially when you’re in a survival situation or on the go. Just run the blade against the rough surface, being careful to maintain a consistent angle.

Nylon Strap

A nylon strap—like the kind you find on backpacks, seatbelts, or luggage—can act as a makeshift strop. It’s not as ideal as leather, but it can realign a knife’s edge in a pinch. This method works best when used after sharpening to refine the edge.

Cardboard

Believe it or not, cardboard can be used for stropping. It’s not as effective as other materials, but it’s better than nothing and easily accessible, especially with all those shipping boxes around. Fold a thick piece of cardboard to create a more stable surface.

Car Window

The top edge of a rolled-down car window has just the right texture to hone a blade. It works especially well for softer steel. Just run the knife along the window edge as you would a honing rod, keeping a consistent angle throughout. It’s a great roadside solution when you’re in a bind.

Spine of Another Knife

If you have a second knife, use the spine (the thick, non-cutting edge) to hone the first one. This works best if the knives are made from steels of  different hardness levels. While not a perfect substitute for a honing rod, it’s an ingenious way to keep your edge in check.

Smooth Stone

In the great outdoors and without gear? A smooth, flat stone—especially river stones—can mimic a sharpening stone. Use it the same way you would your sharpening gear at home. Wetting the stone first can reduce friction and help prevent microchipping.

Concrete

Concrete should be a last resort, as it can damage your blade if too rough. That said, smooth concrete surfaces can help put a basic edge on your knife. Be cautious and always strop afterward to clean up the edge. Find a piece of concrete that’s extremely smooth and run the knife the same way you would a sharpening stone. Stropping afterward will help make things a little smoother.

Not sure if your prized knife can be salvaged? Knife Depot has over 10,000 knives for sale in our store catalog so you won’t have any issues finding a replacement.