Which Tormek Should I Buy?

Tormek sharpening machines are considered the best in the industry, offering precise, repeatable sharpening for knives, chisels, axes, and more. But with multiple models available, choosing the right one can be challenging.

In this guide, we’ll help you decide which Tormek sharpener best fits your needs based on what tools you sharpen, how often you sharpen, and your experience level. By the end, you’ll have a clear answer to the question: Which Tormek should I buy?

Understanding Tormek Sharpening Machines

All Tormek machines use low-speed grinding wheels to produce razor-sharp edges while preventing overheating. However, they vary in size, power, and included accessories.

• Professional-grade models (T-8 series) offer the most power and versatility.
• Compact models (T-4 series) provide high-quality sharpening in a smaller package.
• Specialized kitchen models (T-1 & T-2) are optimized for kitchen knives.

To choose the right one, consider what tools you sharpen and how frequently you need to sharpen them.

Tormek Model Comparison: Find Your Best Fit

Tormek T-8 Original: The Professional’s Choice

Best for: Woodworkers, professional sharpeners, sharpening services, serious DIYers.

Key Features:

• Large 10" x 2" grinding wheel for long-lasting sharpening.
• More powerful motor designed for continuous use.
• Compatible with all Tormek jigs and accessories.
• Includes everything you need to start sharpening chisels and plane irons.
• 8-year warranty (5+3 years with online registration).

Who should buy this?

• If you sharpen tools regularly or run a sharpening business.
• If you need maximum versatility to sharpen knives, chisels, axes, drill bits, and more.

View Tormek T-8 Original

Tormek T-8 Custom: Your Tailor-Made Sharpener

Best for: Experienced sharpeners who want a customizable setup or anyone upgrading from a T-7 or older model. 

Key Features:

• Comes without a grinding wheel, honing wheel, or accessories allowing you to select your preferred options.
• Same size and power as the T-8 Original.
• Save money if you don't want the accessories included with the T-8 Original. 
• Ideal for those who already own Tormek accessories.

Who should buy this?

• If you want to customize your setup for specific sharpening needs.
• If you are upgrading from a T-7 or older model and have wheels and accessories. 

View Tormek T-8 Custom

Tormek T-4 Original: The Compact Powerhouse

Best for: DIYers, hobbyists, home users.

Key Features:

• Smaller size (8"×1 5/8" grindstone) but same sharpening quality as the T-8.
• More affordable than the T-8, making it great for occasional sharpening.
• Compatible with many Tormek jigs and accessories.

Who should buy this?

• If you sharpen occasionally and want a compact, high-quality sharpener.
• If you're a hobbyist that sometimes uses knives, chisels, and small woodworking tools.

View Tormek T-4 Original

Tormek T-4 Bushcraft: For Bushcrafters and Adventurers

Best for: Hunters, survivalists, bushcrafters, casual sharpeners.

Key Features:

• Same size and power as the T-4 Original.
• Includes jigs for sharpening knives and axes.
• Green casing designed for outdoor settings.

Who should buy this?

If you frequently sharpen knives and axes for outdoor use.

View Tormek T-4 Bushcraft

Tormek T-2 Pro Kitchen Knife Sharpener: For Restaurants and Commercial Kitchens

Best for: Professional kitchens, restaurants, catering businesses.

Key Features:

• Waterless sharpening with a patented angle guide (8°–22°).
• Fast and easy to use, perfect for busy kitchens.
• Coarse and Extra-Fine diamond wheels available separately.
• Can sharpen round blades like pizza cutters with an optional jig.

Who should buy this?

If you need fast, professional sharpening for kitchen knives in a commercial environment.

View Tormek T-2 Pro Kitchen

Tormek T-1 Kitchen Knife Sharpener: For Home Chefs

Best for: Home cooks who want professional-level sharpness.

Key Features:

• Compact and stylish design.
• Uses the same knife guide and diamond grit as the T-2 Pro models but optimized for home kitchens.
• Seamless angle adjustment for precise sharpening.

Who should buy this?

If you want a hassle-free, high-quality knife sharpener for home use.

View Tormek T-1 Kitchen

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Should I buy a T-8 or a T-4?
A: If you sharpen frequently and need versatility, get the T-8. If you sharpen occasionally and need a compact setup, choose the T-4.

Q: Can I upgrade my T-4 later?
A: You can add jigs and accessories, but the motor and wheel size limitations remain.

Q: What’s the difference between the T-8 and T-8 Custom?
A: The T-8 Custom allows you to choose your grindstone, honing wheel, and jigs, while the T-8 Original comes fully equipped.

Q: Is the T-1 or T-2 better for sharpening kitchen knives?
A: The T-2 is built for commercial environments, while the T-1 is designed for home chefs. They both come with a 600 grit diamond wheel and share the same honing wheel, so the final results will be similar. 

Choosing the Best Tormek for You

By now, you should have a clear understanding of which Tormek machine best fits your needs. Whether you’re a professional woodworker, a weekend DIYer, or a passionate home chef, there’s a Tormek sharpener that’s perfect for you.

Still unsure? Our article Tormek Machine Sharpening Machine Comparison goes more in-depth into the differences between the four main models. Alternatively you can contact us to talk with a Sharpening Specialist who has hands-on experience with all the Tormek models.