Love the 12" honing steel. The longer length gives more surface area to work with, especially with some of my longer length blades. Very comfortable handle, and easy to use. This steel is a bit harder than the steel I previously used because of the diamond coating, therefore the steel not only hones the blade but some light sharpening is also achieved as well.
Recently introduced to honing by a long time friend who is a professional chef. I was always complaining about my knives dulling and I learned that honing is the key to edge retention. The honing realigns the edge so that it no longer rolls over on itself which causes the dulling. The Diamond Sharpening Steel not only realigns the edge, but because of the Diamond Steel, some sharpening also occurs. This sharpening steel makes a huge difference, and I use it every time I work in the kitchen.
I use this steel in concert with my regular stone sharpening. It is easy to use and the handle is comfortable to hold. It really keeps my knives at their best edge.
This 12" diamond steel is great for maintaining the edge of your knife. It is so important to hone your knives because it can really bring the knife back to life.