DMT Diamond Sharpening Steel Review

Let’s Dive into DMT Diamond Sharpening Steel

The DMT Diamond Sharpening Steel is a tool that every serious outdoorsman should consider. It’s not just a sharpening steel; it’s a portable sharpening solution designed to keep your blades in peak condition, whether you’re skinning a deer or preparing dinner at a campsite. DMT, a well-known name in the sharpening industry, has built its reputation on quality and precision.

I’ve always struggled to maintain a razor-sharp edge on my knives in the field. Traditional sharpening stones are bulky and require water or oil. The DMT Diamond Sharpening Steel promised a compact, dry sharpening solution, which is exactly what I needed for my backcountry hunts.

My first impression was of a well-constructed tool. The black plastic handle felt solid and provided a secure grip. The 14″ fine grit sharpening rod was perfectly straight, promising consistent sharpening. It felt more substantial than similar steels I’d handled before.

I considered other options, like the Smith’s Diamond Sharpening Rod and the Fallkniven DC4 stone. Ultimately, I chose the DMT Diamond Sharpening Steel for its length, which allows for longer, more consistent strokes, and DMT’s reputation for diamond sharpening technology. The Smith’s rod felt too short and the Fallkniven stone, while excellent, still requires some technique and is less forgiving.

I was excited to see if it could live up to its promise of easy, effective sharpening in the field. My initial excitement stemmed from its perceived portability and the assurance of a sharp edge without the fuss of traditional methods. I was eager to replace the inconsistent results I was getting from portable pull-through sharpeners.

Real-World Testing: Putting DMT Diamond Sharpening Steel to the Test

First Use Experience

I first put the DMT Diamond Sharpening Steel to the test on a recent elk hunting trip in the Colorado Rockies. The weather was predictably unpredictable: cold mornings, brief periods of snow, and dusty afternoons. I tested it on my hunting knife, a fixed blade with a D2 steel blade that had dulled after several days of field dressing and general camp chores.

The steel performed admirably even in the cold, slightly damp conditions. Its ability to sharpen dry was a definite advantage, eliminating the need to find water or carry oil. It took only a few minutes to restore a decent edge to my knife.

The steel was surprisingly easy to use, even for a novice like myself who is more accustomed to using stones. The plastic handguard provided a secure grip. There was a slight learning curve in maintaining the correct angle, but after a few strokes, I got the hang of it.

After my first use, I was impressed by how quickly it restored the edge, but also concerned about how long the diamond grit would hold up to regular use. I was also curious if the fine grit would be aggressive enough to repair significant edge damage.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the DMT Diamond Sharpening Steel has become an indispensable part of my kit. It’s been used on various knives, from my kitchen knives to my hatchet, and it has consistently delivered satisfactory results. It easily sharpens blades of all types, including high carbon steels and stainless steels.

The diamond grit shows no signs of significant wear and tear, even after numerous sharpening sessions. This speaks to the quality of DMT’s diamond bonding process. I’ve only noticed a very slight decrease in its aggressive cutting power.

Maintenance is incredibly simple. I just wipe it down with a dry cloth after each use to remove any metal filings. I have also occasionally cleaned it with a nylon brush. No special cleaning solutions or treatments are necessary.

The DMT Diamond Sharpening Steel far outperforms any portable ceramic rod or pull-through sharpener I’ve used in the past. The diamond abrasive cuts much faster and more efficiently. It’s a significant upgrade to my sharpening routine.

Breaking Down the Features of DMT Diamond Sharpening Steel

Specifications

• Overall Length: 18 3/4 inches. This generous length provides plenty of surface area for consistent sharpening strokes.
• Rod Length: 14 inches. The long rod is ideal for sharpening larger blades like hunting knives and machetes.
• Grit: Fine. A fine grit is best suited for honing and maintaining an already sharp edge, rather than repairing severe damage.
• Handle Material: Black plastic. The plastic handle is durable, lightweight, and provides a secure grip, even in wet conditions.
• Hand Guard: Included. This crucial safety feature prevents your hand from slipping onto the blade during sharpening.
• Hanging Ring: Included. The ring allows for easy storage and access by hanging the steel from a hook or loop.

These specifications contribute directly to the DMT Diamond Sharpening Steel’s performance. The rod length allows for full, consistent strokes. The handguard offers a significant safety benefit. The fine grit is excellent for maintaining an already sharp edge.

Performance & Functionality

The DMT Diamond Sharpening Steel performs exceptionally well in its intended role: maintaining a sharp edge on knives and tools. It quickly and efficiently hones blades back to sharpness. This saves time and effort compared to other methods.

Its greatest strength is its portability and ease of use in the field. The dry sharpening capability is a huge advantage in environments where water or oil are scarce. Its main weakness is its fine grit, which isn’t ideal for repairing severely damaged edges.

The DMT Diamond Sharpening Steel exceeds my expectations for a field sharpening tool. It consistently delivers a sharp edge with minimal effort. This makes it a worthwhile investment for anyone who values a sharp knife.

Design & Ergonomics

The DMT Diamond Sharpening Steel features a practical and straightforward design. The materials are durable and feel well-made. The plastic handle is comfortable to grip, even for extended periods.

The DMT Diamond Sharpening Steel is very user-friendly. There’s virtually no learning curve. Anyone with basic knife sharpening knowledge can use it effectively.

Durability & Maintenance

The DMT Diamond Sharpening Steel is built to last. The quality of the diamond coating and the sturdy construction of the handle ensure years of reliable use. I fully expect this tool to last for many years.

Maintenance is extremely simple. Wiping the rod clean after each use is generally sufficient. Occasional cleaning with a nylon brush and mild soap can help to remove stubborn residue.

Accessories and Customization Options

The DMT Diamond Sharpening Steel comes with no included accessories beyond the steel itself. There are no customization options available. The simple design focuses on functionality.

While there are no official accessories, you could consider purchasing a sharpening angle guide to help maintain a consistent angle. These guides are universally compatible with sharpening steels and stones. A sheath could also be fashioned or purchased to protect the steel during transport.

Pros and Cons of DMT Diamond Sharpening Steel

Who Should Buy DMT Diamond Sharpening Steel?

The DMT Diamond Sharpening Steel is perfect for hunters, fishermen, campers, hikers, and anyone who needs to maintain a sharp edge on their knives and tools in the field. It’s especially beneficial for those who value portability and ease of use. It’s also useful for professional chefs who want to maintain their knives daily.

Those who primarily need to repair very dull or damaged blades should skip this product and opt for a coarser sharpening stone or steel. Those looking for a more versatile system with multiple grits and sharpening angles should also look elsewhere.

A must-have accessory is a sharpening angle guide, particularly for those new to sharpening. A durable sheath or case to protect the steel during transport would also be a great addition.

Conclusion on DMT Diamond Sharpening Steel

The DMT Diamond Sharpening Steel is a valuable tool for anyone who needs to maintain a sharp edge on their knives and tools while on the go. Its portability, ease of use, and durable construction make it a worthwhile investment. The DMT Diamond Sharpening Steel is an excellent product.

The price of $54.79 is justified by the quality of materials and the performance of the steel. It’s a relatively small price to pay for the convenience of having a consistently sharp knife in the field. A dull knife is a dangerous knife.

I would absolutely recommend the DMT Diamond Sharpening Steel to anyone looking for a reliable and portable sharpening solution. Invest in your safety and efficiency; get your DMT Diamond Sharpening Steel today and experience the difference a truly sharp blade can make!