High Carbon Knife Care Tips …
My knives are delivered razor sharp. This is not an exaggeration, they will shave.
They have an apple seed bevel, so keeping them sharp with a leather strop is recommended however if you wish to use ceramic rods or water stones that’s fine. PLEASE DO NOT use tungsten carbide sharpeners – they fuck up the blade edge. Keeping the knife sharp is easier than sharpening it once it is dull. Strop lightly when needed, then oil.
Take care of the tip – it is the most fragile part of the knife – if you take care of the tip the rest will follow.
I do not make throwing knives so please refrain from zombie knife throwing practice, and although my knives are heat treated as accurately as possible for the steel type and intended use my knives are made for cutting, if you need a screwdriver or crowbar please purchase one from a reputable dealer.
DO NOT put them in a dishwasher, the heat and detergents will weaken the glue bonds and strip the wood of its natural oils that protect it, damaging the knife severely. HAND WASH ONLY in warm water with a mild detergent and immediately dry and oil, DO NOT let it soak in water.
If rust spots do appear, rub the blade with a metal polish like Brasso or a very fine (0000) steel wool, then oil or wax the blade.
Do not store the knife in the sheath as this will cause rust, store outside the sheath.
Do not use oil with Silicon in it as this can cause rust.
Brass fittings can be carefully hand-polished with Brasso and lightly waxed or oiled for protection. Polish brass often, coat with wax.
Wood handles usually benefit from a light coating of furniture wax or Museum/Renaissance wax and a good hand rubbing.
Carbon steel knives have a tendency to react to highly acidic foods, which cause the steel to turn a dark grey to black if the acids are left on the blade. The best way to avoid this is to rinse and wipe the blade immediately after cutting the highly acidic foods, then wipe the blade and go back to cutting. If the acids or water is left on the blade they may cause the blade to patina or rust if severe. If this happens, it can be easily remedied with a green scotch-brite pad and a little soap. First, place the flat of the blade on a flat surface like a cutting board. Next, apply a small quantity of soap on the scotch-brite along with a little water. Now you can scrub the blade with confidence. If you scrub the blade without placing it on a flat surface, you could cut yourself. Severe / hard scrubbing will also lighten the acid etch it came with but over time will create a natural aged look patina.
And lastly – Enjoy your knife, it was hand made with hard work and dedication.
Thanks for your support
Erin Peacock – “EwP Knives”
Instagram: @ewpknives………………………………………………..Facebook: EwP Knives………………………………………..e-Mail: erin@ewpknives.co.za