wh-insider: category:Care, Use, & Display

Best Ways to Take Care of Your Kitchen Knives

Best Ways to Take Care of Your Kitchen Knives

By William Henry September 21, 2022
When it comes to working in the kitchen, the most important tool that home cooks can have is a knife. While it may be tempting to treat your knives as you would a piece of cutlery, that is just about the worst thing you can do for the condition of your blades. Not to worry though, proper care and maintenance of your knives are straightforward and simple. If you treat your knives well, they will return the favor, and could easily last you a lifetime. Doing this is far from a huge burden, and there are only a few key things to bear in mind. Sharpening Vs. Honing There are two standard options when it comes to keeping your blades sharp, honing steel (often incorrectly referred to as sharpening steel) and a knife sharpener. The honing steel is a thin metal rod that, when pushed against the dull blade’s edge at the correct angle, smooths out any little dents and bumps by pressing them back into a straight sharp edge. These come standard with many knife sets and are definitely worth having. Unlike the honing steel, a knife sharpener does actually shave material away from the blade to create a new, sharp edge. These are often faster and easier to use than a honing steel, which may take some practice to master. That said, since sharpeners do shave down the edges of your knives, they will cause your blades to wear down much faster than a honing steel would. If you prefer, using a sharpening stone, also called a wet stone, with mineral oil can do wonders for your blades. Keep in mind that this will be a more time-consuming process, however, when compared to sharpeners and honing steels. Using some of this oil alone is also incredibly helpful for your knives, both on the blade and handle. These oils help prevent rust, as well as protect against corrosion that occurs from working with acidic fruits and vegetables. Whatever method of sharpening you opt to use, maintaining your knife’s edge is perhaps the most vital part of maintaining your kitchen knives. If you keep your knives sharp, the blades will more easily glide through whatever you are cutting. In addition to keeping your knives in good shape, proper and regular sharpening will keep you safer in the long run, since dull blades often require more force and cause a greater risk of slipping and cutting yourself. If you are not comfortable sharpening your own knives, many knife manufacturers will let you send your knives back for professional sharpening. William Henry offers knife sharpening for any William Henry knives, for only the cost of shipping. Fill out this form and you will have your sharpened knives back in 2-3 weeks. Use Your Knives Properly Another great way to keep your knives in proper shape is simply to use the right knives for the right tasks. A kitchen knife is, by its nature, a versatile tool, but using them for the particular tasks they were designed for will keep them looking as sharp as they are. There are many types of knives, ranging from the standard chef’s knife and paring knife to tools as particular in their intended usage as a tomato knife. That said, the most important thing to keep in mind regarding how to properly use a knife is to use it only for food. Using your kitchen knives on non-food items will drastically reduce their effectiveness. While it may be easy and convenient to grab a knife to open up packages, cut loose threads, and even as a way to pry open stuck containers, it is not worth it. You will wind up with a much more dull blade, potentially bend or chip the knife, or even have it slip out of your grasp and leave you with a nasty gash. The next thing to keep in mind would be the kind of edge that your blade has. For example, if you are looking to slice bread, you should always opt for a knife with a serrated edge blade. This will allow you to more easily and safely glide back and forth through the bread. Using a bread knife to chop veggies will not be as effective as you would like, and chances are that the extra force you will apply will have you damaging the sharp blade once you get through to the cutting board. Another thing to keep in mind is working with foods that require breaking down or cutting through bone. Only a deboning knife and cleavers intended to chop through easily should be used. Using a standard chef’s knife or other nonspecific blades can be dangerous, as well as incredibly damaging for the edges of your knife. If you are new to working in the kitchen, there is no need to splurge and buy every kind of knife under the sun. That said, you will likely want some standard blade types so that you can easily work with the majority of food items. Always Use a Cutting Board It may feel obvious, but always use your knife on a flat surface such as a cutting board. Using your knives on a plate could scratch or chip the plate, as well as lead to slipping and disaster. With so many options commercially available for cutting boards, however, it may be tough to know what to go for. The best options generally are wood boards, plastic boards, and synthetic rubber boards. Wood boards tend to look the nicest, but the harder surface may require more frequent sharpening. Plastic options will usually be the least expensive and are also better for working with meats and poultry as they can be sanitized in the dishwasher. Synthetic chopping boards will be the easiest on the edge of your blade, and can also provide a better grip against whatever surface you are working on. Whatever material you decide is best for you, something very important to avoid is scraping food off of the board with your knife. While this is often incredibly convenient, it drastically dulls the edge of your blade, and can even cause it to begin rolling up. Clean Up While not as exciting as the other aspects of working with a knife, proper knife maintenance and storage of your knives are important for your safety and the longevity of your blades. Properly washing and storing your knives will help avoid nicks and scratches on the blades, which can be hard to get out when sharpening at home, as well as lead to snagging during use. Generally, the best practice would be to try washing and drying a knife by hand as soon as you are done using them. This ensures that they spend as little time as possible covered in moisture and dirt. Use a less abrasive sponge and your knife blade will thank you. Avoid tossing your knife into the kitchen sink and leaving them to bump and scrape against your other dishes. This can be detrimental to their edges and leaves you with a chipped knife, which can be incredibly dangerous to use, not to mention inefficient and frustrating. Not only that, but knives with wooden handles will often absorb a lot of the dirt and bacteria that you can find in the sink. If possible, you should always avoid washing your knives in a dishwasher. The drastic changes in temperature from hot water and steam, and constant moisture will wear down your blades and leave you with water stains and even rust spots. If you do decide to run your knives through the dishwasher for whatever reason, place them inside securely so that they will not shake and bump into other dishes and kitchen utensils, which will scrape and chip your blades. Secure Storage Another way to keep your knives in near-new condition is to store them in a block or, alternatively, attach them to a magnetic strip. Storing your knife loosely in a kitchen drawer like the rest of your cutlery will make them shake around and will certainly have you risking more damage than the alternatives. Knife blocks help you to store full sets securely and safely and frankly look pretty good on a countertop. If you do not have much counter space or do not have enough knives to warrant a full-sized knife block, a magnetic strip is an easy and convenient place to store a knife or two outside of the drawer. William Henry offers a gorgeous selection of classic knife sets with stunning rare wood and mineral handles, and blades of beautifully crafted Damascus steel. Every set comes with a distinctive and attractive knife block that would look good on any counter, as well as blade covers and a professional leather roll. Take a look today to find the last kitchen knife set you will ever need.
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How to Repair a Broken Knife Tip

By William Henry September 13, 2022
Breaking the tip of your knife can be frustrating, and may leave you contemplating whether you should just toss the knife and get yourself a new one. While it can be a pain to have a chip of your blade fly off after dropping your knife or accidentally hitting a hard surface, it is not the end of the world. Many higher quality knife manufacturers have easy-to-use and affordable (if not free) knife repair options available to their customers. If your knife does not come with those kinds of repair options, but is still too nice for you to want to part with, you can still repair a chipped tip on your own. There are a few different methods for repairing a broken knife tip that you can choose from, and they are all fairly simple if you have the patience. Before you get started though, you need to decide how you want to get on the new tip. Which Side of the Blade to File This might just come down to a matter of personal preference, but you have the option of deciding which side of the blade to file down to meet the new point of your knife. If you file down the flat side of the blade down the edge to make the new tip, the belly of the blade will maintain the same curvature as it had before, with the flat side having a steeper curve to it. You can also opt to file down the edge of your blade, giving the belly a new angle, but still providing enough cutting surface. As long as the work you do with your knife does not depend too strongly on the shape of the blade, either option should do the trick. Your blade will be a little shorter than it was before, but that should not cause you any trouble. Once you have decided how you plan to repair your chipped knife, you can decide which method suits you and the tools you have at your disposal. Grit Stone The most time consuming and physically demanding option is using a grit stone. Grit stones are a traditional and simple way to file down your blade, with lower grit signifying that they remove more material. The user simply grinds their blade at an angle on the stone to shape as they please. If you are not familiar with different grinding stones but have been in a scout program, you are probably most familiar with a wet stone, which is a grinding stone that you lubricate with water. They are very popular and incredibly effective. Other types of grit stones include oil stones and diamond plates. While you can argue that the repetitive nature of the task is nearly meditative in a sense, be prepared to spend a few hours on your knife if this is the tool you have available to you. To accomplish this, only two things are crucial, though you will probably want to do some more detailed work afterward. Make sure you have a marker on hand, and a grit stone (preferably one with 400 grit). Once you have the necessary tools, use the marker to mark the part of the blade you plan to file away. You do not have to be exact as you can always judge by eye while you work, but it is good to set a general boundary to grind down to. After you have marked the part of the blade you will be removing, hold your knife at about a 45 degree angle against your grit stone and get to work grinding. This will almost definitely take you a few hours, so put on some music or a podcast while you work. After you have got approximately the tip you were hoping for, your knife is ready to go. If you would like, use a paper towel to wipe the excess sludge off of your grit stone, this can be used to polish your knife! While this may not leave you with the most professional looking blade, it should more than do the trick in a pinch, and your knife will certainly be able to do everything it could before. Knife Sharpener Probably the easiest option, though still requiring a bit of exertion and time on your part, is a knife sharpener. Knife sharpening tools often come with suction cups or clamps attached so that you can securely set them on a flat surface to safely sharpen your knife. The only tool you need here is the sharpener, and it should be as simple as pulling your knife clean through the device until you are satisfied with your new tip. Be sure to consult any instructions that may have come with your particular knife sharpener in case yours has unique features. Drill Attachment If you opt for the process of using a handheld power tool to repair your broken knife, you will need a few things before you get started: A marker of some kind, your handheld drill and attachments (metal cutting blade, grinding and sanding bits), polishing materials, a clamp, and a wet stone or honing steel. Once you have all of the materials (and your broken knife) get started by using the marker to shade in the part of the blade, top or bottom, that you will be removing to make the new point. Now that everything is planned out and set, clamp the knife to your work table or surface. Clamping your knife down is crucial, both to ensure that you have proper control over the work surface, and also to avoid any terrible accidents involving flying knives. Use the metal cutting attachment of your drill to cut off the shaded section of the blade with light and steady pressure while running at full power. After the chip is gone with the new tip in its place, using the grinding and sanding drill attachments to clean up the cut, polishing afterward. Your knife is now just about ready for use again, all that is left is a little sharpening. Using a wet stone or honing steel, run the edge of your blade a couple times (on both sides, depending on the knife) until the edge is as sharp as desired. Belt Sander Another excellent option for those with tools at their disposal is the belt sander. You will want to start with a medium-grit belt, like a 220 grit. Similar to the other methods, you should try to mark the part of the blade you plan to remove before starting as a baseline. Also make sure you have the sanders leather strop and honing compound. Before you get started, be aware that the belt grinder will likely cause the knife to heat up rapidly. Both for the safety of your hands and the well-being of your sander, be sure to let your knife cool off as needed. Letting it get too hot can cause you major issues and injuries. Put the 220 belt onto your sander and set it up depending on your preference, be it horizontal or vertical. Set the sander to its maximum speed, and you are ready to start sharpening your knife back down to a new tip. Gently move the edge of the blade against the spinning belt, gently pressing the edge into the belt as you run it back and forth, just enough for a dent to form. Do this for a bit before flipping the blade over and evening out the other side of the edge. Make sure to stay focused so you do not go further than you intended. Once you are satisfied with the new tip of your knife, replace the medium grit belt with the leather strop with the honing compound and move the blade the way you did while sharpening. How often a blade may need to be sharpened depends on the specific knife manufacturer and materials. For example, William Henry pocket knives are recommended to be sharpened every 18 to 24 months. William Henry will periodically sharpen your knife for just $10 (the cost of shipping it back to you). Just compile the appropriate form here, ship it to us, and we will get it done for you.
How to Sharpen Kitchen Knives

How to Sharpen Kitchen Knives

By William Henry June 10, 2022
When it comes to properly maintaining your kitchen knives and ensuring that they are safe and efficient tools, there is little more important than proper sharpening. There are a number of tried and true methods for sharpening kitchen knives, and the method that suits you will depend on a few different factors. Before sharpening your knives, you need to consider the type of edge that the blade has, which sharpening tools are most comfortable and convenient to you, and the quality of the blade itself. Honing Steels A classic sharpening tool that you can find in any professional kitchen is honing steel. Sometimes incorrectly referred to as a “sharpening steel,” this thin metal rod does not actually sharpen your blades at all. What it instead does is help to realign the edge of the blade of your dull knife by simply pushing the metal into the proper place. By swiping your blade at about a 15-degree angle on each side with repeated and consistent pressure, the honing steel will help to restructure the edge into the same edge it had previously. Unlike other knife sharpening tools, a properly used honing steel should remove little to none of the actual material of the blade. This makes it one of the best options in terms of maintaining the life of your blade. Sharpeners Probably the easiest method for sharpening knives is using a simple knife sharpener. These tools are often ones that you can set on your kitchen counter and are either weighted or include suction cups to avoid slipping, which could be incredibly dangerous. Unlike honing steel, they do effectively remove material from your blade’s edge. In this process of shaving the edge, they quickly recreate the same “V” shaped edge that your knife had when it was new. While how you use them is fairly similar, those looking for knife sharpeners have two big options to consider: automatic and manual. Electric Knife Sharpeners An electric or automatic knife sharpener is easily among the fastest sharpening tools, though it certainly comes at a bigger expense than most of the other manual options. While each electric sharpener comes with its own specific features and proper usage instructions, there are a few things you can expect. Some automatic sharpeners come with multiple slots for multiple blade edge angles that you can choose from, but at the least, your sharpener should have one slot. If there is only one option on your sharpener, it will likely be for a more standard 15 or 20-degree angle on the blade’s edge. As you slide the edge of your blade through the slot of an active knife sharpener, abrasive motorized wheels turn on each end of the blade, grinding down the edge as you pull the knife back and forth. This is an extremely fast process, and usually, just a few passes through the sharpener will get your knife to the desired sharpness. As mentioned previously, electric sharpeners can easily be more expensive than the various manual options for sharpening and honing. It can range up to several hundred dollars for sharpeners with additional grinding slots and coarseness options. It is also important to keep in mind that not all blade edges can be properly corrected by an electric sharpener, so make sure it suits your needs before you splurge. Manual Knife Sharpeners Similar both in their simplicity and in how you use them, manual knife sharpeners are another easy method for getting your blade’s edge to the desired angle. As with the electric option, these sharpeners can have a range and variety of abrasive slots for you to choose from. Similarly, the more common ones will most likely have a one or two-step system intended to sharpen your blade to the standard 15 degrees. Manual sharpeners can occasionally also include grinding wheels that are not motorized, similar to the electric options, but more often have abrasive materials placed in the desired V-shape. The user simply has to draw the blade through the sharpener with even pressure until the desired edge is achieved. This can be more time-consuming than automatic sharpeners, but it is still a very simple process. While both automatic and manual sharpeners are far faster and easier to use than honing steel might be, at least when it comes to forming consistent angles, these tools do in fact shave metal off of your edge. While in moderation, this is not a big issue, keep in mind that overuse can result in a shorter lifespan and effectiveness for your blades. Whetstones Another classic sharpening option, and one of the most versatile for various types of blades, is the whetstone. Whetstones are relatively inexpensive abrasive blocks that, with a little patience and mastery, can sharpen any knife. Whetstones often come at either one level of grit (or abrasiveness) or with two, one on each side of the block. While these can be used immediately out of the packaging, it is often recommended to dampen your whetstone with either water or honing mineral oils. This helps to reduce friction and makes the process smoother overall. Be sure to check the specific recommendations for your whetstone before use. After setting the whetstone down in a secure place that it will not slip from, the user simply has to hold the blade facing away from them at a consistent angle, usually 15 or 20 degrees. With consistent and relatively light pressure, the blade then needs to be pressed against the stone in a circular motion. The blade then can be flipped to sharpen the other side. If your whetstone does have two sides, or if you have multiple whetstones with different grits, start with the coarser options and then work your way to the finer grit. This process definitely takes more patience and time than the other sharpening tools mentioned allow, but you can easily take your whetstone anywhere you go, and with some practice, can definitely get as great an edge as you want. Sharpening Serrated Edges Serrated blades, usually meant for slicing bread and some tougher meats, can be a different animal when it comes to sharpening. Since the edge goes up and down in little waves, as opposed to being straight, you cannot treat them exactly as you would your other kitchen knives. There are some sharpeners intended specifically for serrated edges, though they may not be necessary. If you are careful and patient, some honing steels and sharpeners can still do the trick. While it would be far more difficult to pull through the device, slowly dragging your serrated blade through a knife sharpener, can still get you to the same angle on the edge in a uniform manner. Just mind the bumps. As these methods can be far more time-consuming, it might be worth looking into the professional sharpening, but you certainly have options. Testing Your Knife Once you think your knife seems about sharp enough to the eye, there are a few easy ways to test it out. One of the most fun methods, and one you have certainly seen on TV, is testing your blade’s edge on paper. Simply hold up a sheet of paper and try to pull your blade through it. A well-sharpened knife will be able to cut through cleanly and smoothly. If there is any snagging or crinkling, you have some more work to do. Another classic method is the nail test, though you certainly need to be more careful when holding a blade toward yourself. Using extreme care, place the edge of your newly sharpened knife to your thumbnail and very lightly press the blade in a perpendicular angle (be sure not to make a slicing motion). A blade that has been sharpened enough should easily shave a small layer of the nail off. Again, be sure not to use much pressure at all, you are not at all trying to slice when using this method. Storage Even the best knives lose their edges in time, and while sharpening is best when following the knife manufacturer’s instructions, it is also crucial to store your blades properly between uses. The best thing you can do for your knives is to not store them in your kitchen drawer. The many pieces of metal bump and scrape into one another, wearing them down much faster than they should. The most common option is most likely the knife block. These often come with sets of knives specific to them, but can also be sold for universal use. These blocks either have slits for you to store your knives in securely or occasionally can be magnetized to hold any blade shape. Knife blocks are not only very convenient when it comes to grabbing the knife you need quickly, they look great on the counter. Even if not part of a knife block, magnetic strips can be a great way to keep your knife sharp when you are storing it. These strips can be placed wherever you would prefer your knives to be stored, and all you need to do is stick the blade to the strip when you are finished using it. One thing to keep in mind is ensuring that your blade is always clean and dry before storing. Trapping moisture between your blade and the magnetic strip or in the slits of your knife block can sometimes build up rust, and can certainly cause major damage to your blade. The proper method and consistency for sharpening your knife will largely depend on the manufacturer and materials. For example, William Henry kitchen knives are recommended to be sharpened every 18 to 24 months. William Henry will periodically sharpen your knife for just $10 (the cost of shipping it back to you). Just fill out the order form here, ship it to us, and we will get them sharpened for you.
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How to sharpen your knife with a wet stone

By Matt Conable November 21, 2021
https://youtu.be/QtP6PRh1N-k WH founder Matt Conable demonstrates the technique to sharpen your knives using a Japanese wet stone.
12 Pocket Knife Safety Tips and Laws

12 Pocket Knife Safety Tips and Laws

By William Henry June 22, 2021
Pocket knives are an invaluable tool to have at all times, but they can literally be a double edge-sword in some cases. We all have been warned about running with scissors and the same applies to an exposed pocket knife blade. It is never too early to learn about proper knife-wielding rules and laws.That is why we have assembled a complete pocket knife safety and law guide so you can legally and safely use your pocket knife when you need it most. It Is All Fun and Games While pocket knives can be visually striking and fun to look at, they should not be handled like a toy. Pocket knives are powerful and sharp tools - you should always approach one with self-awareness and caution. Knife injuries can occur at any moment, so it is important to learn proper knife handling techniques to avoid getting hurt. Always respect these safety rules and laws to avoid any serious injury. Know Your Laws Laws regarding pocket knives can vary by jurisdiction based on the type of mechanism and blade length. For example, some carry laws prohibit the concealment of knives over limiting blade length. Generally, most pocket knives are legal. However, they may be prohibited in certain areas such as schools, government buildings, and planes. Always check your state and local laws to confirm these restrictions. Open Away From Your Face Pocket knives with a spring-assisted opening mechanism should be opened with the blade facing away from your face. When opening your pocket knife, you may intuitively look down into the knife as you are doing it, which can put you at a greater risk of cutting yourself. If you are opening a traditional Swiss army pocket knife, use both hands, one to securely grip both sides and the other to pull out your tool. Watch Your Fingers When Closing When closing your knife, do not let your guard down. Injury can also occur if you are not aware of the position of the blade. Make sure your fingers are not between the blade and the knife handle. Keeping your fingers away will prevent pinching or cutting when closing. Cut Away From Your Body As a rule of thumb, always establish a safety circle and cut away from your body. Use your dominant hand so you have better control of your tool. Ensure you have a firm grip on the handle. In addition, keep an eye on your fingers and the blade to avoid getting cut. If you have to pass your knife to someone, it is best if it is closed and in its sheath. But, if that is not possible, always hand the knife with the sharp end pointed down so they can grab it by the handle. Establish a Safety Circle Establishing a safety circle is your responsibility to protect yourself and those around you. A safety circle, also known as a blood circle, refers to the area within your extended arm and your blade. When establishing your blood circle, always do so with the blade in the closed position. Extend your arms with the closed pocket knife in front of you. Draw a circle while rotating your body and check your overhead clearance, too. If you can touch someone else, it is not safe. If someone enters this space, keep the knife closed and tucked away. Know Your Knife Pocket knives vary in size, shape, color, pattern, and function. Some are more able to handle tougher jobs while others may be meant for everyday general use. It is important to determine the type of jobs your pocket knives are built for. Using them for a job they are not able to handle can cause breakage or injury. Keep a Sharp Knife It may sound counter-intuitive, but keeping your pocket knife blade sharp is one of the most important safety tips we can give you. OSHA reports that dull blades are the main reason for workplace injuries related to knives. Here is why: When using a dull knife blade, you have to exert additional pressure and force to cut through the material. A job that could easily be done with an extra sharp blade now requires more pressure and increases your risk of injury. If you are forcing the blade down, the knife can slip from your hand and hurt yourself or someone around you. Sharpen your blade regularly to make your job easier and keep yourself safe. Use Personal Protective Equipment While most people will not require any cut-resistant gloves to use a pocket knife, they can be a helpful tool if you want to be extra safe. They can help a Cub Scout learn proper pocket knife safety rules to earn their whittling chip. Store and Maintain Your Pocket Knives After you are done with your tool, do not just toss it into any old drawer and call it a day. It is important to take care of your pocket knife so it always has its original function and luster. When storing your pocket knife in a case, make sure that the blade is closed. In addition, make sure you keep your blade clean. A knife that has accumulated dirt and other debris can affect the function of your blade and is a safety risk. With every use, inspect your tool to determine if it is in proper working order. Check for cracks, chips, or a dull blade. Check to make sure if any screws need to be tightened or replaced or if any hinges need to be oiled. If you see any irregularity, fix it right away. Keep Your Knife Dry Keeping your knife dry may seem like more of a maintenance tip, but it can also increase your risk of injury. When a pocket knife is wet for an excessive period of time, it can build up rust. If you do not get rid of the rust, your rusted pocket knife can break more easily than one that is not. Safe Handling for Longevity In addition, handling a wet pocket knife is a recipe for disaster. It can cause your knife to slip from your hand and injury you or someone around you. Safe handling of these tools does more than keep you safe. Handling knives with respect and care helps you maintain them in their original condition for longer. With proper care and maintenance, you can pass them down for generations. For more safety tips, pocket knife products, and accessories visit William Henry.
Displaying Your Knife: Pocket Knife Display Case Ideas

Displaying Your Knife: Pocket Knife Display Case Ideas

By William Henry May 14, 2021
Luxury pocket knives deserve a beautiful and protective home. Consider these sleek display case ideas to showcase your pocket knife collection in your home.
How to Remove and Prevent Rust on a Pocket Knife

How to Remove and Prevent Rust on a Pocket Knife

By William Henry May 12, 2021
Removing rust from your trusty blade is easier than ever. From household items to specialty cleaners, you can restore any aged blade to its original glory.
How to Clean and Maintain Your Dirty Pocket Knife

How to Clean and Maintain Your Dirty Pocket Knife

By William Henry April 26, 2021
Cleaning your pocket knife is a sacrament that allows you to connect with each groove, screw, and blade on an intimate level. Time-consuming? Sure. But it is a critical ritual that keeps your pocket knife as lustrous as the day you first bought it. More than a functional day-to-day tool, pocket knives are heirlooms that can be passed down for generations. Pass along a knife you can be proud to wield and display with proper knife maintenance practices. Battling the Elements When you invest in a luxury pocket knife, it is up to you to help maintain its pristine sheen. From opening packages to whittling a work of art, pocket knives are functional and stylish tools that come in handy in a bind. However, everyday use can get your pocket knife dirty. Even just sticking your knife in your pocket can attract lint to its most sensitive components. If any dirt or debris accumulates in the pivot or locking mechanism, your pocket knives’ function will be severely limited. Any dirt or grime on the pivot can make it harder to open and close the blade. Any debris in the lock can prevent you from keeping your knife locked open or closed. Without proper closure, you increase your risk of injury. In addition, you must battle the elements which can degrade the individual components of your knife, even its most Hardy and resilient ones made of stainless steel. Prolonged exposure to water, sweat, and high humidity can lead to rust on your blade. Consider the types of materials from your springs, bolts, screws, and locks when cleaning your knife. It is safe to say, the cards are stacked against you, especially if you do not take the time to learn how to clean a pocket knife. Regular cleaning, maintenance, and lubrication can make sure your tool retains its original form and function. So, how do you know when your knife needs cleaning? Usually, it will look visibly dirty with dirt, mud, and other gunk on its surface. However, there are instances where you cannot visibly see the debris, but your knife functions poorly. If your knife does not open and close smoothly or it is showing visible signs of rust, it is a good idea to give it a deep clean. General Cleaning Cleaning Essentials Old toothbrush Cotton swab (q tip) Toothpick Lubricant/mineral oil Dish soap Water Paper towel/microfiber cloth Compressed air (optional) For everyday cleaning, wipe down your pocket knife with a dry or slightly moist lint-free cloth, paper towel, or rag after every use. Dirt, in particular, should be wiped down immediately after use. If left to dry, mud on the blade or inside the handle can Harden over time and cause scratches and wear on your moving parts. Safety tip: Wear protective gloves when you are cleaning your pocket knife with the blade open. In addition, wipe the blade with your palm on the spine side to avoid any nicks or cuts. Serious Cleaning If your blade is showing a little extra dirt and wear, you can gently remove the debris using an old toothbrush with soft bristles to get into every nook and cranny on your knife. From the engraved patterns to the exquisite inlays and screws, debris is bound to end up in these open crevices. It is up to you to give your folding knife the proper care it deserves. Scrub away dirt from your locking mechanism, inside the handle, and around the blade pivot. For stubborn dirt that cannot easily be removed, apply a few drops of 3-in-1 oil on your toothbrush, rag, or towel. If you are experiencing trouble opening and closing your locking mechanism, cleaning inside the handle can solve the issue. It is always best to clean inside the handle when it is dry. Removing lint when wet is basically impossible. Sticking a flat-tip object inside a wet handle can potentially move it deeper into hard-to-reach places and negatively affect the function of your knife. Pro tip: If your toothbrush cannot clean inside the handle, use a dry q tip, toothpick, or a small and thin paintbrush to wipe away the inner debris. For more high-powered cleaning, use a high-pressure can of compressed air to literally blow away the caked-on debris in hard-to-reach places. Wash and Rinse Generally, it is not recommended to let your pocket knife remain wet for extended periods of time. When dealing with extremely hard-to-remove dirt and mud, soap and water may be the only saving grace for your pocket knife’s original sheen. Keep in mind, you want to thoroughly clean the knife, but you do not want to scrub it so hard that you tarnish its polish. It is a good idea to use a soft bristle toothbrush and the soft side of the sponge when washing your pocket knife with soapy water. Run the knife under warm water or wash it in a container/bowl with warm water and a mild dish soap solution. Completely submerging the handle in water is safe for most materials, except for wood and a few other sensitive materials. A drop or two of soap is all you need to clean the entire knife. Pay attention to the locking mechanism, inside the handle, and around the blade pivot. Feel free to use a cotton swab to get deep inside your handle. If a cotton swab is too big to fit in the handle’s small opening, you can flatten the swab’s tip with a hammer or other heavy tool to help it go through. Safety tip: When washing your knife, the suds may not make the sharp part of your blade visible. If needed, place some tape around the edge of your knife to prevent any cuts, especially when dealing with slippery soap. Deep Soak Generally, it is not recommended to get your pocket knife wet, especially for extended periods of time. However, for the practically glued-on gunk, you can completely submerge your pocket knife in a container/bowl of warm water and soap if the blade’s materials can get wet. This is not the case for wood, abalone, mother-of-pearl, or some synthetic materials. Steel and titanium can be soaked in dish soap and water. Make sure you do not leave your pocket knife in the water for too long and that your water temperatures are significantly below boiling levels. If the residue still will not get off, it is time to bring out the big guns. Extra Tough For spots that just will not go away, a little bit of rubbing alcohol on a cotton swab or rag is a good way to clean the caked-on and sticky debris such as tree sap. While alcohol evaporates pretty quickly, it is recommended to immediately rinse your knife after you clean it with rubbing alcohol. Keep It Together If you are getting impatient with the dirt and debris stuck inside the handle, do not be tempted to disassemble your knives for a deep clean. Breaking apart your knife usually voids any warranty you may have. If you truly want professional-grade cleaning, get in touch with the pocket knife manufacturer and inquire about their cleaning and maintenance services. Let It Dry Leaving your knife wet for extended periods of time can cause excessive wear and rust on your blade. When you wash your knife in soap and water, it is best practice to let your pocket knife dry completely. Do not get impatient and use your knife before every last drop has evaporated from its surface. Any trapped moisture can cause corrosion and affect the opening and closing of your handle, especially if it is made of wood and other sensitive materials. Lubrication Once your pocket knife is completely dry, you can apply a thin coat of oil on the blade, pivot, and any moving parts. Avoid getting oil on the handle since it can adhere easily and make it slippery. You can choose from a variety of lubricants available, although most are petroleum-based. Common lubricant choices can also be used on firearms, sewing machines, door hinges, and other moving parts. Some users have noticed that wet lubricant easily attracts grit, pocket-lint, and hair. If this is the case, dry lubricants, commonly teflon-based, avoid attracting lint. They are available in aerosol cans or grease tubes and dry on your knife’s surface for the ultimate protection. If you will be using your knife for cooking, invest in a food-safe oil. Consider mineral oil or vegetable oil. How to Oil Your Blade Most importantly, do not overdo it on the oil. Use considerably less product than you think you may need. If you use more, it may be hard and time-consuming to remove. However, if you use a small amount, you can incrementally add more to your liking. Wet lubricants only require at most a couple of drops. If you have a dry aerosol lubricant, a single light spray is enough. When oiling your parts, one area to focus on is the pivot. Apply a small bit of lubricant and cycle the blade (open and close) to work it inside. Oil usually has an application device, but you can also use a toothpick to apply it. Some knife users have had good results with using a 1cc medical syringe for precise application. How Often? When to oil? The answer to this question varies based on the frequency of use and how often you clean it. Generally, a knife should be oiled after every cleaning. If your knife is in a storage compartment and not being used, oiling it every two to three months should be enough. If you will be placing it in storage for a while, make sure to lubricate it first. Finally, if you are in an area near saltwater or high humidity, it may need more frequent oil application. Wipe It Down When you have scrubbed, rinsed, dried, and oiled the blade, give it a final wipe down. A final wipe ensures you have not used too much oil on the blade. You can use paper towels or a soft microfiber cloth to wipe off the excess oil from the blade’s surface. Wiping off any extra oil can reduce the risk of rusting. Even high-quality stainless steel is prone to rust without proper care. Storage for Longevity Improper storage practices can negatively affect the look and function of your knives. Many pocket knives come with a snug sheath where you can carry around your blades. However, when you are done using them and return home, it is critical that you give your blades a cursory wipe and store in an open and dry case or drawer. If you leave your knives inside the sheath indoors, it is more likely to attract moisture and lead to rust. Check out our blog resource on how to display your pocket knife. Rust In Peace Addressing rust is a whole separate beast. Over time, moisture can develop rust on the blade. But fret not, just because there is a little rust on it does not mean it is completely useless. Rust usually just affects the surface. If you catch it early, it will not do any permanent damage to your blades. However, if you wait to clean the rust, it can cause pitting in the blade, rendering it useless. For a rust-free blade, follow our pro tips on how to remove rust. Maintain a Sharp Blade A big part of keeping and maintaining your pocket knives in working order is the sharpening process. Sharpening blades can be done in a variety of ways. Generally, knife sharpeners come in a range of coarse and fine surfaces. Sharpening your own blade can help you connect with your tool but requires a careful hand. If you absolutely do not trust yourself, go with a professional sharpening service to get the job done to avoid damaging your knives. Check out our blog resource on how to sharpen a blade for a detailed rundown of the process. Upgrade In Style If your pocket knife is too old and there is no way of resuscitating its original appeal, it may be time to upgrade your tool with a new and improved knife model. William Henry offers heirloom-quality pieces with an edge. Made from exotic and sustainably-sourced materials, each pocket knife appeals to a bolder and more daring side of ourselves.
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Knife Sharpening Guide 101: How to Sharpen a Pocket Knife

By William Henry March 12, 2021
Learning how to sharpen a pocket knife can extend its longevity, as well as retain its function and beauty. Sharpening a pocket knife is more than a maintenance and care practice, sharpening your knife is an art form that takes patience, experience, and skill to perfect. Once you get the hang of it, it goes from an annoying chore to a labor of love with each purposeful swipe. Using a manual sharpening tool requires fine skill and balance, but mastery is totally achievable with some practice. Electric sharpening tools get your blades sharp at a faster rate thanks to the beauty of technology. From maintaining a constant angle when sharpening to buying mineral oil lubricant for a sharpening stone, there are a few things to consider on how to sharpen a pocket knife. Our pocket knife sharpening guide breaks down the tools needed, sharpening process, and expert tips to keep your blades sharp. Gather Your Sharpening Tools Sharpening tools come in all shapes and sizes. Consider the blade’s material and quality to choose the right type of sharpening tool for your pocket knife. Sharpeners range from electric to manual-operated devices, each with the capacity to hone your blade. Whichever type of tool you choose, there will be a learning curve to achieving a razor-sharp blade. Electric vs. Manual High-tech electric sharpeners offer fast and convenient restorations but require an adept hand and super precise angling of the blade. For the uninitiated, the speed of the grinding wheels or belts on an electric sharpener can take off more metal than required, if you are not careful. Manual sharpeners can offer unmatched precision in sharpening, so long as you have mastered the deft movements and sharpening process. At an accessible price, these manual tools are usually compact and portable for small spaces and quick touch-ups on-the-go. There are super cheap tiny handheld sharpeners up to several hundred dollar electric sharpeners, depending on your needs. Electric Sharpener Electric sharpeners are quick, relatively user-friendly, and are preferred by people who have many tools to sharpen. Electric options can have features such as pre-programed control guides, nonslip grips, and a retractable power cord. For the electric sharpener, you often slide the knife right in and it does the work for you creating a nice sharp edge. They might be a little loud and can sometimes sound a bit like the pencil sharpeners from elementary school days, those loud grinding metal ones. Handheld Sharpener Sometimes you just want to do it yourself. You want to feel the tool and be able to maneuver it ever so slightly rather than rely on something electric to do it for you. You want to master a skill and feel accomplished at the end of the day. There are many handheld knife sharpeners to choose from. Many of them are super affordable, making it a captivating choice for knife sharpening experts and rookies alike. You have to rely on your own strength and force to sharpen the blades. Knife Sharpener The knife sharpener is a bit more modern and looks like the tool version of Wolverine’s claw. These are great for sharpening pocket knives or any non-serrated blade. All you have to do is place the side of the blade of your pocket knife in the slot to restore your dull knives. Pull the knife gently through a few times. It often comes with a grip to better hold it, a slip-resistant base to keep it in place with each motion as you slide the blade across. Sharpening Stone Rough grit or finer grit on a sharpening stone? The choices are many. Using a sharpening stone is a different handheld way to sharpen your knife blade. Also known as whetstones, the sharpening stone is a popular and quite traditional way to sharpen knives and edges of steel tools. To whet means to sharpen, so a whetstone is a sharpening stone. There are many different kinds of stones to pick from depending on the material, cost, and care needs. There are many sharpening stone materials out there and diamond and ceramic are among the most popular. Some sharpening stones will also need some type of lubricant like mineral oil or water lubricant. Keep in mind that you have to pick a lubricant that does not harden or rot. Grit Sharpening stones tend to come with two sides, a rough grit side and a fine grit side. Simply flip the stone to flip the grit. There are multiple grit levels that you can buy in addition to the basics. The stone grit variations are there to help you determine how much to sharpen your pocket knife. You can find course stones less than 1000 grit up to finishing stones at 8000 grit grades. Start off sharpening on the rough grit and then use the finer grit for superfine finishing. Is the edge of the blade particularly dull? Is the knife blade more rough or jagged? Your blade condition can help you determine what grit to use. Ceramic You sharpen one side at a time on the side of the stone. Simply switch sides of the blade on the stone to sharpen all edges, then finish off with alternating strokes. The durability of ceramic sharpening stones makes it a popular choice for dull knife sharpening. Cleaning should not be too hard, depending on your brand and the directions. Clean-up can range based on the brand, so it is best to read their exact instructions. The clean-up methods can range from soap and water to a plastic abrasive pad and powdered abrasive cleanser. Some ceramic stones must be used dry, without any oil or water. Diamond Much like its ceramic version, you sharpen one side of the blade at a time. Diamond sharpening stones tend to come in Extra Fine, Fine, Coarse, and Extra Coarse grits and bases. Sharpen a dull blade or damaged blade with the extra coarse side of a diamond sharpening stone. If needed, follow up with the extra-fine grit that gives knives and tools a razor-sharp edge. These are a really great way to sharpen your pocket knife, but proper maintenance for your diamond sharpening stone is an important step to making it last. Tips to Consider You have acquired your sharpening tools and you are ready to get to work. Now what? You do not want to grind your blade into a tiny nub so these are some fast and easy tips you will not want to miss. We want to help you make your blade the sharpest tool in the shed. Clean Your Pocket Knife One of the first steps to sharpening your pocket knife is cleaning it. You want to make sure you take off any debris, gunk, stickiness, or whatever is attached to the precious pocket knives. Start off with soap and water and consult these tips on how to clean your blade.It is impossible to accurately sharpen your knife, gauge the bevel, or correct the sharpening angle if you cannot even see your knife because it is covered in goop from past adventures. Identify Your Bevel No matter what you use to make a dull blade sharp, how to sharpen a pocket knife starts with identifying where the knife’s bevel is. The bevel is that slight angle or slight edge that runs across the knife. Usually there is only one bevel, but there are double bevel knife options, so confirm which one you have. Hunting and pocket knife bevel angles range from 22 to 30 degrees normally. Some people like to mark the edge of the bevel with a marker so they can tell if they are hitting the right angle as they hit the blade. Sharpening Angles If you watch enough videos on YouTube about how to sharpen a pocket knife, the experts often talk about finding the correct angle. What exactly is it? How do you find it? The constant angle and pressure across the stone or sharpening device allows you to hone at the right angle without having any accidents. Due to the angle, speed, and direction that you are sharpening, a slip may act as a guillotine. Make sure you are careful during the process because as you are moving back and forth, there is a possibility of severely hurting yourself on a sharp blade edge. You want to ensure that you are sharpening the correct spot to ensure this does not happen. Some knives recommend sharpening at an exact degree angle, whether it is 15 or 20 degrees, other tools are already set at specific angles. You need to sharpen both sides of your pocket knife, so flip to the opposite side and do the process again. Once you reach the tip you might want to lift the knife a little as you sharpen back-and-forth. Sharpening Frequency Now that you purchased your equipment and you even have some experience you realize another question pops up. How often should you be sharpening the blade anyway? It will definitely depend on how frequently you use the knife in the first place. If it does not get much use, no need. But, if it feels rough around the edges, it might be time for a sprucing up. Like any tool, it is all about how you use it. Some sharpeners are legitimately higher quality valued at several hundred dollars. If you do not feel inspired to spend that much to get a sharp knife, there are more affordable options that will do the trick. When in doubt, trust your sharpener’s instructions. Your stone and brand will usually contain instructions on how to clean it, whether you need a lubricant like mineral oil or water, and will walk you through those first steps. Sharpening a pocket knife should not be as difficult as a larger knife but still requires a fair share of elbow grease. Stay sharp!