Knife care
Every Ellard handmade knife is made with precision and attention to detail and with a little care they will last for years to come. Here are a few tips to keep your new Ellard knife performing and looking its best:
Its a knife, not a crowbar. Ellard knives are made with high performance in mind and because of this are ground thin at the edge. while still maintaining a high lever of strength, they can be prone to chipping when abuse. refrain from any bone cutting or frozen produce.
No Dishwashers, efficient way to destroy a natural handle.
Its important to keep carbon steel blades dry when not in use this will ensure longevity, limit moisture absorbing into the handle and keep the patina buildup even. over time the patina will form from acidic foods and will help protect your blade from unwanted corrosion.
Edge Maintenance. Keeping your knife sharp will ensure continued performance and enjoyment. A ceramic sharpening steel is useful for light edge touch ups waterstones are a great to keep your blades sharp and ready to slice. combination stones such as a 1000/5000 are a great budget friendly option.
Handle Maintenance. Overtime the handle may begin to dull slightly and show signs of wear through continued use. Not to worry though, a coat of fresh oil and a buff with return the handle to its vibrant original condition. food safe wax can also be used as an additional layer of protection. metal handle parts such as brass and copper can patina and age over time just like the blade, a buff with also work to remove this patina if preferred.
Saya
Make sure to keep your knife and saya clean when storing as to not contaminate the inside leather with debris which could scatch the blade and possibly rust the steel.
Its important not to store your carbon steel blades in a leather lined saya for extended periods of time as the leather can retain a small level of moisture, risking rust build-up on the blade.