Our Damascus Steel Knives are made of forged welded layers of 1095 steel and 15N20 steel. The 15N20 is based on Nickel Steel that forms the highlights of pattern, while the 1095 is based on Carbon steel that turns black when etched. This mixture makes for a blade that keeps its edge very well after being heat processed. As with every blade made from Carbon steel, the blade will develop a beautiful gloss with usage. The blade’s patina will develop a unique hue and personality depending on the materials and foods it has been used to prepare.
Taking Care of the Knives
Damascus steel blades require similar maintenance to Carbon steel blades; avoid leaving them in damp environments. The blade becomes considerably fairer when it has aged, but a new one made of Carbon steel rusts very rapidly.
Never:
- Leave the Damascus Knife in water
- Keep the knife on wet cloth or towel
- Wash the knife in dishwasher
After Using:
- Rinse and clean the blade and wipe dry with kitchen towel
- Slightly oil the blade with food oils
- Store in a clean and dry place
Tips for Maintaining your Damascus Knives
Here are some effective tips proposed by our manufacturing team in order to maintain the beauty and effectiveness of your Damascus Knives:
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Avoid Abrasives
If you want the engraved oxidation that shows the pattern on a Damascus knife to last, you should avoid using abrasives such as rough fabrics, metal sprays, wire mesh, etc. to clean the knife.
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Lubricate Damascus Steel blades
Most hand forged Damascus blades are made of high carbon steel, which means that they have a relatively low amount of chromium in the steel. Carbon steel and Damascus carbon steel can rust when not oiled and cared for properly.
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Washing and Storage
To avoid damage to the blade, store your Damascus kitchen knives in a knife block or on a magnetic wooden rack. A knife made of Damascus steel should never be cleaned in a dishwasher. When submerged in water, the high carbon steel used to make the blades would rust. Damascus steel knives are delicate and can only be cleaned by hand.
It’s also vital to watch out for a damp handle, since this might cause the blade of your high carbon knife to rust. If you plan on preserving Damascus knives especially in a locked safe or preservation container, you should not use a dehumidifier bar. There is a risk of cracking or separation in ANY natural handle material (woods, resin, stag, etc.) exposed to extremely low humidity.