Chef'sChoice Professional Electric Knife Sharpener

Introduction

The Chef'sChoice Model 1520 is a compact 3-stage electric knife sharpener designed for kitchen knives. It features 100-percent diamond abrasives for efficient sharpening and is suitable for both straight-edge and serrated knives with 15-degree and 20-degree angles. This sharpener creates a durable, arch-shaped edge by forming two distinct facets at different angles. The first stage is for 15-degree knives, the second for 20-degree knives, and the final stage uses patented stropping disks to achieve a polished finish. It is compatible with American, European, and Asian-style household knives, including Santoku and traditional Japanese-style single-bevel edges, as well as sports and pocket knives. Initial sharpening typically takes about 1 minute, while resharpening requires approximately 10 seconds. Precision angle guides ensure consistent sharpening along the entire blade.

Image: Front view of the Chef'sChoice Model 1520 Electric Knife Sharpener in black, showing the brand logo and model number.

Important Safety Instructions

• Read all instructions before using the sharpener.
• To protect against electrical hazards, do not immerse the sharpener in water or other liquid.
• Always unplug the sharpener from the outlet when not in use, before putting on or taking off parts, and before cleaning.
• Avoid contact with moving parts.
• Do not operate any appliance with a damaged cord or plug, or after the appliance malfunctions or has been dropped or damaged in any manner. Contact customer service for examination, repair, or electrical or mechanical adjustment.
• The use of attachments not recommended or sold by the manufacturer may cause fire, electric shock, or injury.
• Do not use outdoors.
• Do not let the cord hang over the edge of a table or counter or touch hot surfaces.
• This appliance is intended for household use only.
• Keep hands clear of the sharpening slots during operation.
• Do not attempt to sharpen ceramic knives or scissors with this device.

Setup

1. Place the sharpener on a stable, flat surface.
2. Ensure the power switch is in the "OFF" position.
3. Plug the power cord into a standard 120V AC outlet.
4. Confirm the sharpener is securely positioned before beginning operation.

Image: Rear view of the sharpener showing the power cord and on/off switch.

Operating Instructions

The Chef'sChoice Model 1520 features three sharpening stages, each with specific functions to achieve a sharp, durable edge.

Understanding the Sharpening Stages:

• Stage 1 (Asian/15-Degree): Utilizes diamond abrasives to sharpen knives to a 15-degree angle, suitable for most Asian-style knives and contemporary European/American knives designed for a finer edge.
• Stage 2 (Eur/Amer/20-Degree): Employs diamond abrasives to sharpen knives to a 20-degree angle, ideal for traditional European and American-style knives.
• Stage 3 (Stropping/Polishing): Features patented stropping disks to hone and polish the knife edge, removing any burrs and creating an ultra-sharp, durable finish for both 15-degree and 20-degree knives. This stage is also used for sharpening serrated knives.

Image: Top view of the sharpener indicating the "Asian" (Stage 1) and "Eur/Amer" (Stage 2) slots, along with the final Stage 3.

Sharpening Straight-Edge Knives:

Before sharpening, determine if your knife requires a 15-degree or 20-degree edge. Most Asian knives and some modern European/American knives use a 15-degree edge, while traditional European/American knives use a 20-degree edge.

1. Initial Sharpening (Dull or Damaged Knives):
   • Turn the sharpener ON.
   • For 15-degree knives, use Stage 1. For 20-degree knives, use Stage 2.
   • Insert the knife blade into the left slot of the chosen stage, holding the blade flat against the angle guide. Pull the knife towards you at a moderate speed (approximately 4 seconds per pull) while maintaining constant contact with the guide. Repeat 2-3 times.
   • Immediately move to the right slot of the same stage and repeat the pulling motion 2-3 times.
   • Alternate between the left and right slots, reducing the number of pulls with each pass, until a burr is felt along the entire length of the opposite side of the blade. This indicates sufficient material removal.
   • Proceed to Stage 3 for honing and polishing. Insert the blade into the left slot of Stage 3 and pull the knife towards you 2-3 times. Repeat in the right slot 2-3 times. Alternate 1-2 times in each slot until the burr is removed and the edge is polished.
2. Resharpening (Slightly Dull Knives):
   • Turn the sharpener ON.
   • Go directly to Stage 3. Insert the knife blade into the left slot of Stage 3 and pull the knife towards you 2-3 times. Repeat in the right slot 2-3 times.
   • Test the sharpness. If not sufficiently sharp, repeat the process in Stage 3.

Image: Knife in Stage 1 slot.

Image: Knife in Stage 2 slot.

Image: Knife in Stage 3 slot.

Sharpening Serrated Knives:

Serrated knives should only be sharpened in Stage 3.

1. Turn the sharpener ON.
2. Insert the serrated blade into the left slot of Stage 3. Pull the knife towards you, ensuring the entire serrated edge passes through the slot. Repeat 5-10 times, depending on the dullness of the blade.
3. Repeat the process in the right slot of Stage 3, pulling the knife towards you 5-10 times.
4. The serrations will be sharpened and the burrs removed, resulting in a sharper edge.

Maintenance and Care

• Always unplug the sharpener before cleaning.
• Wipe the exterior of the sharpener with a damp cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or immerse the unit in water.
• Periodically, use a soft brush to clean any metal dust from the sharpening slots.
• Store the sharpener in a dry, safe place when not in use.

Troubleshooting

Specifications

Image: Diagram illustrating the dimensions of the Chef'sChoice Model 1520 Electric Knife Sharpener.

Warranty and Support

The Chef'sChoice Model 1520 Electric Knife Sharpener comes with a 3-year manufacturer's warranty. For warranty claims, technical assistance, or product support, please refer to the contact information provided in the product packaging or visit the official Chef'sChoice website.