HORL 2 vs HORL 3: The Ultimate Knife Sharpener Comparison

HORL 2 vs HORL 3: The Ultimate Knife Sharpener Comparison

If you've been struggling with dull kitchen knives, you know the frustration of trying to dice an onion or slice through a tomato with a blade that's lost its edge. While traditional whetstones require skill and practice, and pull-through sharpeners can damage your precious blades, HORL's innovative rolling knife sharpeners have revolutionised home knife maintenance.

In this comprehensive comparison, we'll explore the differences between the popular HORL 2 and the newly launched HORL 3 series to help you decide which model is right for your kitchen.

Key Improvements: What's New in the HORL 3?

1. Enhanced Grip and Comfort

The HORL 3 series introduces significant ergonomic improvements:

• Wider Design: Approximately one centimetre wider than the HORL 2, providing a more comfortable grip
• HORL Grip Pad: Delivers 70% more grip on the magnetic angle support
• Improved Magnetic Strength: Even small paring knives stay firmly in place during sharpening

2. Revolutionary Quick Lock Mechanism

One of the most impressive upgrades in the HORL 3 series is the new Quick Lock system:

• One-Twist Disc Replacement: Swap sharpening discs with a simple twist instead of the more involved process required with the HORL 2
• Faster Transitions: Easily move between different grit levels for comprehensive knife care
• Note: HORL 2 discs are not compatible with HORL 3 sharpeners

3. Superior Diamond Sharpening Technology

The HORL 3 introduces advanced sharpening surfaces:

• HORL Block Diamonds: New diamond layer offers 80% more effectiveness than HORL 2 diamond sharpening stones
• More Uniform Grinding Pattern: Ensures consistent, precise results with every use
• Improved Speed: Sharpens blades more efficiently, saving you time in the kitchen

Model Comparison: Finding Your Perfect Match

HORL 3 Cruise: The Sustainable All-Rounder

The entry-level HORL 3 Cruise offers impressive upgrades over its predecessor:

• New Dual-Angle Support: Now features both 15° (Japanese knives) and 20° (Western knives) angles
• Eco-Friendly Construction: Made from #tide Ocean Material® – 100% recycled plastic collected from beaches
• Fixed Discs: Non-interchangeable diamond sharpening disc and stainless steel honing disc
• Best For: Budget-conscious cooks who want reliable sharpening without extra features
• Price Point: £99.00 

HORL 3 Oak/Walnut: The Versatile Classic

The standard HORL 3 offers the perfect balance of aesthetics and functionality:

• Premium Materials: Available in beautiful German oak or American walnut
• Interchangeable Discs: Swap between different grits for customized sharpening
• Ceramic Honing Disc: Superior honing compared to the Cruise's stainless steel disc
• Dual-Angle Support: 15° for Japanese knives, 20° for Western blades
• Best For: Home cooks and chefs who want quality, versatility, and beautiful design
• Price Point: £169.00 

HORL 3 Pro: The Speed Demon

For those who demand perfection, the HORL 3 Pro represents the pinnacle of sharpening technology:

• Six Adjustable Angles: From 10° to 25° in 5° increments for ultimate versatility
• Planetary Gear Mechanism: Sharpens three times faster than the standard HORL 3
• Premium Construction: Powder-coated aluminum with elegant dark bronze finish
• Optimized Mechanics: Perfected drive components and reduced flywheel mass for smoother operation
• Best For: Professional chefs and serious home cooks who value speed and precision
• Price: Premium pricing reflecting its advanced features - £399

Who Should Upgrade from HORL 2 to HORL 3?

Worth the Upgrade If:

• You find the disc-changing process of the HORL 2 cumbersome
• You work with smaller knives that may slip on the HORL 2's magnetic support
• You value faster sharpening with more consistent results
• You appreciate the ergonomic improvements of a wider, more comfortable grip

Maybe Stick with HORL 2 If:

• You're satisfied with your current HORL 2's performance
• Budget is a primary concern
• You've already invested in multiple HORL 2 accessory discs (which won't work with HORL 3)

Introducing Your Knife to the HORL

The first time you use the HORL sharpener on a knife, it’s a good idea to “teach” your knife the new angles. This simple marker test takes less than 10 minutes and helps you get the best results right away:

1. Mark the Blade: Colour the very edge of the blade with a marker pen, on both sides.
2. Sharpen: Use the coarse disc to sharpen one side until the marker is gone, keeping track of the number of strokes.
3. Repeat: Do the same for the other side, ensuring all the marker is gone.
4. Hone: Hone the blade using the same number of strokes you used for sharpening. No need to mark the blade for honing.

Do this test every time you introduce a new knife to the HORL sharpener.

The Verdict: Evolution, Not Revolution

While the HORL 3 represents a significant upgrade in terms of usability, comfort, and sharpening effectiveness, the fundamental brilliance of HORL's sharpening system remains unchanged. Both generations offer the same core benefit: taking the guesswork out of knife sharpening by maintaining perfect angles without the learning curve of traditional whetstones.

If you're new to HORL sharpeners, the HORL 3 series is the obvious choice, offering refined features and improved performance across all models. For existing HORL 2 owners, whether to upgrade depends on how much you value the enhanced grip, quicker disc changes, and more effective diamond sharpening technology.

Whichever generation you choose, HORL sharpeners stand as some of the most innovative and effective knife maintenance tools available today – ensuring your kitchen knives remain razor-sharp and ready for action.