Maintenance Protocol

CARE GUIDE

Your blade is a living tool. Treat it with respect and it will serve you for generations.

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High Carbon Steel Blades

Rule #1: Keep it dry. High carbon steel reacts with moisture. After every use, wipe the blade with a dry cloth.

Patina: Over time a dark patina will develop. This is normal and actually protects the blade. Don't fight it — embrace it.

Rust: If surface rust appears, gently rub with fine steel wool (0000 grade) or a rust eraser. Re-oil immediately.

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Stainless Steel Blades

Stainless options (CPM-S35VN, Magnacut) are far more resistant to corrosion but are not immune. Prolonged exposure to salt or acids will still affect the finish.

Clean after contact with citrus, tomatoes, or saltwater. A quick rinse and wipe is sufficient. Occasional oiling is still recommended for optimal performance.

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Handle Materials

Wood (Bog Oak, Birch, Burl): Stabilized with resin but benefits from occasional conditioning with Danish Oil or beeswax. Avoid prolonged submersion.

Stabilized Wood: Stabilized wood is submerged in resin inside a vacuum chamber, making it dense and water-resistant.

Micarta & Carbon Fiber: Nearly indestructible. Clean with soap and water. These materials are built for abuse.

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Sharpening

We sharpen with Japanese water stones (1000–8000 grit). This is the method we recommend. Maintain the original angle — typically 15–20° per side for our convex grinds.

Avoid: Pull-through sharpeners and powered grinders. They remove too much material and damage the heat treatment.

Stropping: A leather strop with green compound will maintain a razor edge between full sharpening sessions. 10 passes per side is enough.

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Leather Sheaths & Accessories

Our sheaths are vegetable-tanned and treated with neatsfoot oil and pine tar. They will develop a rich patina over time.

Conditioning: Apply leather balm or neatsfoot oil every 3-6 months depending on use. Work it into the grain with bare hands — body heat helps absorption.

Storage: Never store a blade inside a wet leather sheath. The tanning chemicals combined with moisture will accelerate corrosion. Always dry both before storage.

"A well-cared-for blade is a mirror of its owner."

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