Meat Trimmer how-to

How to Keep a Boning Knife Sharp on the Line

Sharp knives are safer.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Sharp knives are safer. In short: hold; set; swipe, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Hold the steel firmly.

  2. Set a 20-degree angle.

  3. Swipe alternately.

  4. Use light pressure.

  5. Test sharpness.

  6. Steel often.

Safety reminders for meat trimmers

  • Wear cut-resistant gloves
  • Keep knives sharp
  • Follow sanitation rules
  • Report injuries

Boning knife · Steel · Trim spec · Yield · Primal cut · Portion: see the full meat trimmer glossary.

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