What tool is used for maintaining the edges of knives?

The tool primarily used for maintaining the edges of knives is the honing rod, which is often referred to as a honing steel. This tool is designed to realign the microscopic edge of the blade, which can become misaligned with regular use. Regular honing helps keep knives sharp by ensuring that the edge is straight, rather than sharpening the blade itself.

When a knife is honed, it can slice through ingredients more easily because the edge is aligned properly. It's essential to use a honing rod correctly, angling the knife appropriately, typically around 20 degrees to maintain the best cutting edge. Unlike sharpening stones or other sharpening devices, which actually remove material from the knife blade to create a new edge, honing does not change the width or integrity of the blade.

Other tools mentioned, such as sharpening stones, are specifically for creating a new edge on a dull knife by grinding away material. A cutting board serves a different purpose entirely as it is used as a surface for cutting rather than maintaining knife edges.