Knife Care

Rust prevention, handle maintenance and making your tools last a lifetime.

• Caring for carbon-steel blades and preventing rust

  Wipe a carbon-steel blade dry after use, especially after green wood, and apply a thin coat of food-safe oil before storage. Store it dry and outside a leather sheath for long periods. A grey or blue patina is normal and helps protect the steel; orange rust is not.

• Oiling and maintaining wooden knife handles

  Wooden knife handles should be oiled a few times a year with a drying oil such as linseed oil, or when the wood looks dry or pale. Apply a thin coat, let it soak in, wipe off the excess and let it cure. Keep handles away from prolonged soaking and direct heat.