Look after it and it will outlive you
A handmade blade is not high maintenance — it just wants to be dry, sharp and put away properly. Ten minutes of care a month is the difference between a knife you keep and a knife you replace.
A sharp knife is a safe knife
Most cuts happen with dull blades, because a dull edge slips instead of biting. Keep it sharp and keep it honest.
Do
- Keep the blade sharp for controlled cutting
- Hold a strong, secure grip
- Always cut away from your body
- Take care when cleaning around the edge
- Store knives out of reach of children
Don't
- Pry with it
- Hammer with it
- Use it as a screwdriver
- Catch a falling knife
- Leave it loose on a counter
Worth knowing: misuse like prying, hammering or throwing is not covered by our warranty — and it is the fastest way to snap a tip. See Warranty & Returns.
Wash it by hand. Always.
- Hand wash onlyA dishwasher will wreck a handmade knife — heat, steam and detergent attack the edge, the handle and the finish. Dishwasher damage is not covered by the warranty.
- Mild soap, warm waterNo abrasives, no harsh chemicals, no soaking.
- Dry the blade completelyThis is the step people skip. Water left on steel is where rust starts.
- Oil carbon and Damascus steelA thin coat is all it takes. We recommend Eezox for the best rust prevention and long-term protection.
Where it lives
Proper storage prevents damage, protects the edge and keeps everyone in the house safe.
Leather sheath
Ideal for outdoor and hunting knives.
Wooden box
Best for collectors and gifted pieces.
Magnetic rack
Perfect for kitchen knives, and keeps edges apart.
Knife roll or case
Great for travel and professional use.
Avoid
- Storing knives loose in a drawer — edges chip and fingers find them
- Anywhere damp or humid
Putting one away for months
Oil it first
A light coat of Eezox before it goes away.
Cool and dry
Away from humidity, radiators and windows.
Silica gel
Drop a packet or two inside the storage box.
Re-oil
Carbon steel wants a fresh coat every few weeks.
Keeping the edge
Routine
- Sharpen with a whetstone or a professional sharpener
- Hone the blade before each use
- Inspect for stains or early rust
🧹 Stubborn rust
If your knife develops hard or stubborn rust, use Bar Keepers Friend to lift it safely without damaging the blade. Work gently, rinse, dry completely, then re-oil.
Rust caused by poor maintenance is not covered by the warranty, so catch it early.
The non-negotiables
👶 Child safety
- Keep knives locked away or out of reach
- Never leave one unattended on a counter
- Teach older, supervised children proper respect and handling
🌡 Keep it away from
- Extreme heat
- Prolonged sunlight
- Saltwater — clean immediately if exposed
- Harsh chemicals and solvents
Treat it right and it becomes an heirloom
Proper care keeps your knife sharp, rust-free and beautiful for decades. Questions about a specific blade or handle material? Ask us.
