Carbon Knife Care

How do I properly care for my carbon steel knife?

If you have ever used a carbon steel knife, you know that these blades are not only incredibly sharp, but also have a fantastic cutting profile. However, they do require a little more care than stainless steel knives. To ensure that your knife stays in top shape for a long time, you will find everything you need to know here.

Why carbon steel?

Carbon steel is a fantastic material for knives. Why? It's simple:

• Razor sharp : With carbon steel you can cut so precisely that even a hair doesn't stand a chance.
• Easy to resharpen : If the sharpness starts to decrease, a quick grind is enough and the blade is as good as new again.
• Long-lasting edge : You can rely on your knife to stay sharp for a long time, even with frequent use.

The only disadvantage: carbon steel is not rustproof. But with a little care, you can easily get that under control.

How to keep your knife rust-free

1. Avoid rust :

   • Wipe your knife after each cut and dry it thoroughly before putting it away. This way, “bad rust” (the orange kind) doesn’t stand a chance.

2. The patina – the good rust :

   • Over time, a grey to dark grey layer forms on your knife, the so-called patina. Don't worry, that's a good thing! It also protects the blade from rust. Nevertheless, it is still important to keep your knife dry - then you will have a long, loyal partnership.

3. If rust does appear :

   • No need to panic! You can carefully remove small rust spots with a kitchen sponge and some soapy water. But please: keep your hands off steel wool, it will only ruin the surface of your blade.

Storage and Extra Tips

• Humid environments : If you do not use your knife for a long time or store it in a humid environment, rub the blade thinly with vegetable or blade oil. This will provide reliable protection.
• Keep the original paper : Many carbon steel knives come in a special brown paper. Keep it! This paper is like a protective layer for your knife and helps prevent rust.

Conclusion

A knife made of carbon steel is not just a tool - it is a loyal companion that will give you long-lasting pleasure if you take good care of it. With a little care, your knife will become something very special that will serve you well for many years.