The majority of knives I make are forged or constructed using a range of high carbon steels, prized for their ability to maintain an edge and age beautifully over time. These high quality tool steels are able to be forged into shape, sometimes layered to form patterned steels and then exactly heat treated to ensure the quality of the blade. The final product is a completely handcrafted knife, that requires certain care to ensure its longevity.  

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Unlike the common stainless steel, high carbon steel knives require the user to wash, dry and keep the blades clean between uses, as they are susceptible to oxidisation and rust if stored wet or dirty. In order to care for your carbon steel knife, you will need to wipe it down after use and store it clean and completely dry with a smear of food safe oil. Carbon steel knives form a grey-blue patina, which is an entirely natural reaction to the steel coming into contact with the acidic nature of the world. This will form over the first few weeks of use and can be thought of as something like a protective skin that will settle in and become more durable as you use it.

 

If neglected and left wet or dirty, the blade is prone to corrosion and can form spots of rust. These can almost always be removed and are often only cosmetic, however as with anything that is designed to be high performing, the more care you take with your knife, the better it will serve you for years to come.

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Learning to sharpen your own knives is a deeply pleasing pastime and should be researched by anyone wanting to invest in their kitchen and cooking. Carbon steel knives are best maintained using either and ceramic or steel honing rod. This method, works to align the micro-bevel at the sharpest point of the cutting edge and if used correctly can help maintain a razor edge for up to six months at a time. Eventually, all knives will need to be resharpened to reinstate a fresh clean cutting edge. This involves removing a very small amount of material at the cutting edge and is highly achievable to be done at home with either a water or diamond stone. Below I have added an excellent video detailing exactly how this can be done. Alternatively I always welcome any knife I have made to be sent back for a sharpen and polish for a flat rate of $15, given there is a return post bag supplied upon delivery.

 

Sharpening with Bob Kramer video

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