Caring for your tools
so they’ll take care of you
Our recommendation
AISI 1000 series steels are our most often used, mainly AISI 1095. 1095 steel is a high carbon steel chosen for its edge retention, ease of sharpening, and performance under heavy work, it is however susceptible to corrosion and oxidation. For this reason, we recommend when the tool is not in use it should be stored in a dry low humidity environment.
Tool Care
We ship and maintain all 1000 series steel tools with a coating of hardening wax. We recommend maintaining this coating regularly with something like SC Johnson paste wax or similar, however alternatives like beeswax are perfectly acceptable. Should wax not be ideal for you oils like TUF or mineral oil will suffice, but require more frequent application.
After sharpening, honing, or prolonged use, the tool should be cleaned of any debris or moisture and a thin coating of your chosen protectant applied.
When not in use the tool should be stored in a dry low humidity environment.
Kitchen Implement Care
AISI 1000 series steel kitchen utensils should not be coated with any nonfood grade protectant and can be used without a protective coating. Items should be washed by hand with dish detergent and a soft cloth or non-abrasive sponge/brush. Implements should be washed and dried immediately after use and not allowed to soak.
Things like AISI 1095 knifes will form a beautiful dark patina when used to cut foods with high acidity such as onions or tomatoes. There is absolutely no need to remove this patina, but it can be removed with abrasive polishing should you wish to.