Harley Hunter

Caring for a hand-forged knife is essential to maintain its sharpness, appearance, and longevity. Here are some care instructions to ensure your knife remains in excellent condition:

1. Cleaning

• Hand Wash Only: Always wash your hand-forged knife by hand using warm water and mild dish soap. Avoid placing it in the dishwasher as it can damage the blade and handle.

• Dry Immediately: After washing, dry the knife thoroughly with a soft cloth to prevent rust. Moisture can cause corrosion, especially on high-carbon steel blades.

2. Storage

• Use a Knife Block or Sheath: Store the knife in a knife block, magnetic strip, or protective sheath to prevent dulling and damage to the blade.

• Avoid Jumbled Drawers: Do not store knives loosely in drawers where they can clink against other utensils, as this can cause nicks and dulling.

3. Sharpening

• Regular Honing: Use a honing steel regularly to maintain the edge between sharpenings. This realigns the blade's edge.

• Sharpening Frequency: Depending on use, sharpen your knife with a whetstone or professional sharpener every few months. Ensure you know the appropriate angle for your specific blade.

4. Oiling

• Protective Coating: Apply a thin layer of food-safe mineral oil or vegetable oil on the blade to protect against moisture and corrosion. This is especially important for high-carbon steel knives.

5. Avoid Certain Activities

• No Cutting Hard Materials: Avoid cutting hard materials like frozen food or bones, as this can chip or damage the edge.

• Don’t Let it Soak: Never leave the knife soaking in water, as this can cause the handle material to warp and the blade to corrode.

6. Professional Maintenance

• Occasional Professional Care: Consider having your knife professionally serviced periodically for deep cleaning, sharpening, and maintenance.

7. Handle Care

• Maintain the Handle: If the handle is wood, treat it with mineral oil occasionally to keep it hydrated and prevent cracking. For synthetic handles, clean them gently with soap and water.

8. Be Mindful of the Blade

• Use Appropriate Cutting Boards: Always use cutting boards made of wood or plastic. Avoid glass, ceramic, or stone surfaces as they can dull your knife quickly.

By following these care instructions, you can ensure that your hand-forged knife remains a beautiful and functional tool for years to come.