Check If Your Knife Is Properly Sharpened By Slicing A Magazine

Your kitchen knife is an essential tool, but a dull blade isn’t just a hassle — it’s dangerous to use. Master Bladesmith Bob Kramer shows a simple test you can do to see if your knife is as sharp as it should be.

According to Kramer, a truly sharp knife can cut paper and slice a tomato, no problem (as you’d expect). However, to truly test your knife’s edge, try rolling magazine paper and slicing off a piece lengthwise. Magazine paper is slick, so if your blade can dig in and filet that shampoo ad with ease, you’re all set.

Not sure how to properly sharpen a kitchen knife? We’ve got you covered.

Bob Kramer: “What is Sharp?” [YouTube via WonderHowTo]