William Henry Insider

How to Smoke a Cigar Properly
By William Henry
November 30, 2023
The world of premium cigars is not merely about smoking; it's about indulging in a holistic experience. The joy of cigar smoking extends beyond the aroma and flavor of a finely rolled cigar; it involves the anticipation of choosing your smoke, the artistry of lighting it, and the finesse of executing the perfect cut. Discovering your personal preferences in each of these aspects is a journey of self-discovery and part of the enthralling charm of this sophisticated pastime.
The Art of Cutting a Cigar
Learning to cut a cigar correctly and comfortably is an art that takes time to master. A cigar is not just an object; it's a testament to the craftsmanship that goes into rolling each piece by hand. Anyone can haphazardly chop off the end of a cigar and begin smoking. However, the true connoisseur takes a moment to admire the craftsmanship, identify the cap with a discerning eye, and remove it confidently. This small act of ceremony transforms the experience into something far more profound and enjoyable.
The cigar cutter you choose plays a significant role in this process. It's not unusual to see friends gathering around a new cutter in the lounge, eagerly discussing its features and sharing their experiences. Each cutter has its unique charm, and choosing the right one enhances the cigar cutting and smoking experience, making it a cherished ritual rather than a hurried act.
The Pleasure of Slowing Down
Cigars offer an escape from the relentless pace of daily life. They represent a moment of leisure, an opportunity to savor not just the flavor of a fine cigar but also the ambiance of the environment you've chosen for your smoke. This can be a quiet corner of your home, a bustling cigar lounge, or an outdoor space that offers a scenic view.
The joy of smoking a cigar often comes with the company you keep. Sometimes, it's the comfort of close friends, exchanging tales and laughter that only intimate camaraderie can foster. At other times, it's the thrill of sparking a conversation with a stranger at a lounge, finding common ground over an interesting smoke or a unique smoking implement.
The Objects That Tell a Story
The beauty of cigar smoking lies in the stories that are woven around it. The objects associated with this ritual—the cigar itself, the cutter, the lighter, the ashtray—carry their own inherent narratives. Crafted with care and used with reverence, these objects not only tell the story of their creation but also become a part of your personal journey.
Consider our cigar cutters, for instance. Each piece tells a tale of rarity and uniqueness, of an edge that's sharper than others. They speak of the individual who uses them, of their choices and tastes, adding another layer to their personal story. As you use these tools and savor your cigar, you're not just enjoying a smoke. You're creating memories, establishing traditions, and crafting your own unique narrative.
Enjoy Your Time, Craft Your Story
The joy of cigar smoking is about more than the physical act. It's about the stories you tell, the memories you make, and the experiences you share. So, as you choose your smoke, light it up, and make that perfect cut, remember to savor the moment. Relish the environment, enjoy the company, and take pleasure in the journey.
Whether you're a seasoned cigar aficionado or a newcomer to this elegant pastime, the world of cigars invites you to explore, discover, and enjoy. Take your time, immerse yourself in the experience, and most importantly, craft your story. Cigar smoking isn't just a hobby; it's a lifestyle—one that epitomizes sophistication, elegance, and a zest for life.
Navigating the Nuances of Cigar Smoking
One of the many subtleties involved in the world of cigars is the art of cutting. The end of the cigar's wrapper that you cut, called the cap, is sealed with a piece of tobacco leaf to keep the wrapper from unwrapping. If cut excessively, the wrapper can begin to unravel, leading to a less-than-enjoyable smoking experience. Over-cutting can also create an overly loose draw, altering the balance of air and smoke, which can distort the flavors and cause the cigar to burn too hot.
The key is to cut just enough to allow for a comfortable draw while preserving the structure of the cigar. This usually means cutting about one-sixteenth to one-eighth of an inch from the cap. As you gain experience, you'll learn to make the perfect cut intuitively, enhancing the overall experience.
As for how to smoke the cigar, it's an elegant symphony of steps designed to maximize your enjoyment. Start by holding the cigar up to your mouth and drawing in gently. Remember, unlike cigarettes, you don't inhale the smoke from a cigar. Instead, you let the smoke linger in your mouth, savoring the rich, complex flavors. The goal here is to appreciate the full-bodied taste and the aroma of the smoke.
Take your time between puffs, allowing the cigar to cool and thus preserving its flavors. A good rule of thumb is to aim for about one puff per minute. This leisurely pace contributes to the relaxation and contemplation often associated with the ritual of cigar smoking.
But what happens if, despite all these carefully orchestrated steps, you find that you're not enjoying the experience? First and foremost, remember that the world of cigars is vast and varied, with a multitude of flavors, strengths, and sizes. Just like with any other indulgence, it may take some time and experimentation to find the right cigar that suits your palate.
Don't be afraid to try different brands, shapes, and sizes. Each cigar has a unique personality, and part of the allure is in exploring these endless possibilities. If a particular cigar isn't to your liking, it's perfectly acceptable to put it out. Cigar smoking is meant to be a pleasurable experience, and there's no reason to persist if you're not enjoying it. Simply set the cigar down in the ashtray and let it extinguish naturally.
In the end, remember that the art of cigar smoking is a personal journey. It's about savoring moments of tranquility, immersing yourself in a rich tradition, and appreciating the craftsmanship that goes into every cigar. Whether you're a seasoned connoisseur or a curious novice, the world of cigars offers a captivating experience, steeped in tradition and brimming with sophistication.
Delving Deeper into the World of Cigars: Nuances to Consider
When embarking on the captivating journey of cigar smoking, there are several nuances you may want to consider. These can range from understanding cigar sizes, shapes, and wrappers, to learning how to store cigars properly. Let's explore some of these aspects for cigar smokers in more detail.
Cigar Sizes and Shapes: Cigars come in various sizes and shapes, commonly referred to as vitolas. These can significantly impact the smoking experience, as they affect the burn rate and draw of the cigar. For example, a thicker cigar, known as a robusto, offers a slower burn and a cooler smoke, whereas a thinner, longer cigar, such as a lancero, provides a faster burn and a more concentrated flavor. Understanding the different vitolas can aid in selecting the right cigar for the occasion and your preferred smoking duration.
Cigar Wrappers: The wrapper, or the outermost leaf of a cigar, plays a substantial role in the cigar's flavor profile. Different types of wrappers, such as Connecticut, Habano, or Maduro, each offer unique flavors and complexities. For instance, a Connecticut wrapper is typically lighter and offers a milder flavor, while a Maduro wrapper is darker and can provide richer, sweeter notes.
Pairing with Drinks: The right beverage can elevate your cigar smoking experience, enhancing the flavors and offering a more sophisticated experience. A single malt whisky, a vintage port, or a strong coffee can all be perfect pairings for your chosen cigar, and the discovery of each is an exciting exploration in itself.
Storing Cigars: Maintaining the right humidity and temperature is crucial for preserving the quality of your cigars. A well-kept cigar humidor can ensure your cigars remain fresh, aromatic, and ready to smoke whenever you wish. Knowing how to properly store your cigars can make a significant difference in your overall enjoyment.
Tasting Notes: Developing a refined palate to identify the various tasting notes in a cigar is a fulfilling aspect of the cigar journey. From the initial light (also known as the first third) to the final third, a cigar's flavor profile can change dramatically. Learning to discern these subtle shifts and complexities can enhance your appreciation for the craftsmanship involved in creating a fine cigar.
Etiquette: Finally, there is an element of etiquette associated with cigar smoking, such as not blowing smoke in another person's direction or respecting the smoking rules of the venue you're in. Understanding these unwritten rules can enrich the social aspect of the cigar-smoking experience.
These nuances, among many others, make cigar smoking a unique and endlessly fascinating hobby. It's about more than just lighting up and puffing; it's about savoring an art form that has been perfected over centuries. So, take your time, explore, and enjoy the journey into the enchanting world of cigars.
Cigars are a classic and elegant indulgence, used for celebration and enjoyment since before the 1400s. While it looks simple enough, there is so much tradition involved in smoking cigars that to those unfamiliar, it can appear daunting to get started. Whether you are simply looking to learn more or are trying to avoid embarrassment at your next bachelor party, knowing how to properly smoke a cigar can come in handy.
Choose your Preferred Cigar
If you are about to smoke your first cigar, chances are that it will be one that is gifted to you at one celebratory event or another. This can make for a great memory, though you are left with little choice in terms of the taste or feel of the cigar. If that is not the case, there are a few things to keep in mind when shopping for your first cigar.
As you are just getting started with cigars, it can be hard finding a cigar type or brand that suits your undeveloped palate, and true trial and error can get expensive. If you are not already used to cigarette smoking in general, you will certainly want to start off with a mild cigar. Get some help from the salesperson at the cigar shop of your choice, they will be happy to make recommendations for your first cigar.
Ask for a few mild cigar options, and make sure not to focus on the look. Bring the cigars up to your nose and take a deep breath in, see that the aroma is appealing to you and is not pungent. This comes down to personal preference, but the smell will be a good indicator of the cigar’s flavor. Select a few affordable alternatives, as there is no surefire way to test how much you like a cigar without smoking it.
Cut Your Cigar Properly
Before lighting up your first cigar, you will need to make sure that it is properly cut to ensure that it smokes properly. There are many different kinds of cigar cutters, from the classic guillotine style to elegant folding knives with more decorative designs. The style of the cutter itself will likely become a matter of personal preference for you, the most important thing is just that it is sharp enough for a clean cut.
The part of the cigar that you will be cutting off is called the cap, it is the closed-end located at the foot of the cigar. It can be intimidating to cut your first cigar, but if you are nervous, keep in mind that it is always better to cut less. You can always remove more if there is not enough airflow, but you cannot get back whatever you remove.
Using your chosen cutter (a sharp knife will also work in a pinch), remove the cap. The best thing to keep in mind when doing so is that you want to cut the cigar’s rounded end, make sure not to cut far enough down that the end will have parallel sides. If you cut too far, the wrapper leaf may come undone and leave you with a large mess of tobacco. Even if the cigar does not fall apart, you will probably have a rough first smoke, spitting bits of tobacco the entire time.
Let There Be Light
Once you have properly cut the cap off of your cigar, you are ready to light up. Your instinct may be to light the cigar like you would a cigarette, with the flame directly lighting the end of the cigar while you puff lightly. With a quality cigar, you certainly want to avoid doing so, or you will negatively impact the cigar’s flavor and smell.
Holding your lighter just far enough from the cigar that the flame does not reach it, slowly toast the end of your cigar while turning the cigar round. This will slowly light the cigar, far more evenly than it would if you were to hold a torch lighter directly to the end. This will bring out the very best flavors of the cigar without producing as much of a bitter taste.
If you do accidentally torch the cigar more than you intended to, do not despair. While the cigar may not taste or smell as good as it would at its prime, you will still be able to enjoy your experience. Take your time, but it is not so vital that you should feel any anxiety over it.
Smoking Your Cigar
Now that your cigar is toasted and lit, you are finally ready to start smoking. What many cigar smokers will advise is that you actually puff out before taking your first draw. This can clear out some of the chemicals that may have accumulated inside the cigar, pushing out some of the bitter taste. This in turn will give you a more enjoyable first smoke.
Puff gently and draw the smoke into your mouth, letting the flavor spread. Whether you were previously a cigarette smoker or a non-smoker, it is vital to remember to never inhale the smoke from your cigar. Unlike cigarettes, cigars are meant to be slowly enjoyed for their full-bodied taste and scent. Let the smoke sit in your mouth for a few seconds and gently release it. Focus on the flavors and the smells, ignoring everything else if you can.
Aside from the horrible coughing fit that would surely taint your first experience, it is also important not to inhale cigar smoke for health-related reasons. The smoke from a cigar is also much thicker and more potent than that of a cigarette and can lead to a huge increase in smoking-related mortality.
According to the American Cancer Society, cigar smokers can be 4 to 10 times more likely to die from mouth and throat cancers compared to cigarette smokers. That is without even inhaling the smoke, so be sure to stick to puffing to fill your mouth. That is also a great reason to leave the cigar-smoking for special occasions only, or you may find yourself dealing with some nasty health effects.
Enjoy
Now that you have the basics down, try to relax and enjoy yourself. It is good to have an ashtray nearby for obvious reasons, but avoid the instinct to tap off the long ash block at the lit end of your cigar. While it may be satisfying to watch half of the cigar’s length in ash drop into the ashtray, the ash on the end of your cigar will help protect your cigar from overheating or burning too fast.
If the ash does fall, it is not the end of the world, just try not to overdo it for the sake of your own smoking experience. Take your time while smoking, and make sure that you only continue so long as you are still enjoying it.
Do not feel any pressure to finish a cigar, especially if it is your first. For one thing, if you are a non-smoker, the amount of nicotine alone could make you feel sick or nauseous. Even if you have a history of smoking cigarettes, cigar smoke can be overwhelming, and it is of course possible that the particular cigar may simply not be to your taste.
Whether the cigar just is not pleasant, or you are beginning to lose your sense of enjoyment for any reason, that is the perfect time to put it out and complete your experience. Avoid stubbing out the lit end like you would a cigarette, as this can lead to an unpleasant smell in the surrounding area. Set the lit cigar down in the ashtray and let it slowly burn away.
Looking to mark your first cigar smoking adventure or looking for a special something for the aficionado in your life? William Henry has a beautiful selection of Damascus steel cigar cutters with exotic stonework that can make a memorable gift for your favorite cigar smokers.

How to Choose the Perfect Kitchen Knife
By William Henry
April 6, 2023
Whether you truly enjoy spending time in the kitchen and experimenting with new recipes or are just looking to get some of the bare necessities, shopping for new kitchen knives can be a great time. A well-made knife is a beauty to behold and just feels at home in your hand, and you can find great kitchen knives at any price range.
While knives are a bit more straightforward to shop for in comparison to some other home goods, it can be overwhelming when you just do not know what makes a great kitchen knife. There are many knives that are ultimately far more expensive than they are worth, as well as cheaper knives that seem alright, but ultimately need to be replaced more quickly.
This guide will walk you through some basic information about kitchen knives and let you know what to look for when you are buying them.
The Essential Kitchen Knives
While there are many different kinds of knives, some specialized for particular uses, you can still do just about anything you need to in the kitchen with these common options.
The Chef’s Knife
If you could only choose one knife to purchase, a chef’s knife would be your best bet. It can do the job for just about all purposes, and is large and hardy enough to work with heavier foods that might need some extra force to be cut properly. A chef’s knife can work wonders for chopping and mincing vegetables and herbs, slicing meats, breaking down fish and poultry, and practically anything else you might need to do in the kitchen.
The chef’s knife is by far the most versatile, and earned its name for that very reason. These knives often come with a 5 to 10 inch blade, with the longer knives being more balanced. The size you choose to buy ultimately should come down to whatever you are most comfortable with.
The Paring Knife
Also called a utility knife, the paring knife is almost like the little sibling to a chef’s knife. While a chef’s knife can also be used for precise work, these smaller knives with 2 to 4 inch blades are ideal for cutting and mincing smaller vegetables and herbs. Paring knives are also great for trimming larger cuts of meat without as much waste.
The Serrated Knife
While less versatile than the chef’s knife or paring knife, serrated blades play a very important role in the kitchen. While straight and curved-edge knives are great for chopping and slicing harder materials, they can oftentimes crush softer foods like bread loaves or tomatoes. The serrated edge allows you to smoothly cut back and forth without putting direct weight onto the food.
It certainly is not as useful across the board as a chef’s knife, but the serrated blade is more replaceable since they are difficult to sharpen at home. As such, choosing a cheaper option is not a bad choice in this case.
Honorable Mention: The Honing Steel
Not a kitchen knife, but something you are sure to have seen in almost every kitchen is the honing steel. Often incorrectly referred to as knife sharpeners, honing steels are thin metal rods that can be used to correct a blade’s edge when it starts to dull.
Unlike knife sharpeners, which shave away bits of material from the edge of the blade to make a sharp point, honing steels simply press the blade back into the right shape. These are inexpensive, easy to use, and will keep your knives in great shape without having to replace them as often.
The Anatomy of a Knife
Once you know the kind of knife or knives you are looking to buy, it is good to bear in mind the different parts that make up your kitchen knives, and eventually to consider the materials they are made of.
The Tip
With a self-explanatory name, the tip of a knife is the smallest part of the blade’s edge, and includes the point of the blade and first inch or two of the cutting edge. The tip is the best part to use for finer and more precise work like slicing small vegetables thinly. Be aware that as the most narrow part of the blade, the tip is a bit more fragile and could snap or chip when dropped or used to pry open containers or open cans.
The Bolster
The thickest part of the blade is the bolster, at the end of the blade opposite the point and leading into the handle or grip. The weight of this part of the blade makes the knife more balanced and overall easier to use. In general, this is the part of your kitchen knife that you should be gripping onto, placing it between your thumb and forefinger for better control and precision. Holding the knife properly helps to avoid dropping the knife or having it slip, which can lead to injury or damage.
The Edge
The cutting end of the blade from the point to its bolster is the edge. The different length and shape of the edge is usually the biggest indicator of what kind of knife you are dealing with, but for this example we will be describing the edge of a chef’s knife.
The thinner, curved end of the blade, the front half or so including the tip leading up to the point, is called the rocker. This end is used for quicker and finer work. Despite the name, it should be used to rock back and forth, but pushed forward with pressure coming from behind.
The thicker end of the blade is called the heel, and it is ideal for cutting through thicker vegetables or even through bone and cartilage. Due to its heft, you are able to bear down on the bolster with your free palm to push the heel through whatever food you are working with.
The Handle
When looking at blade handles, the ideal design is simply whichever is most comfortable for you to handle and work with regularly. Some may appear aesthetically pleasing, but ultimately be less easy to grip. Knife handles that have grooves shaped in for your fingers are often, counterintuitively, not the best option across a wider array of uses. Generally speaking, wood and metal handles are more popular and reliable, while some plastic or rubber handles can get slippery and tough to control.
The Spine
Opposite of the edge is the spine, the not sharp top of the blade. Many knives, like a chef’s knife, will have a flatter or wider spine so that you can put some weight on it with your free hand. Knives intended for more precise work like a serrated blade or filet knife will usually have thinner spines.
The Tang
The end of the blade that is sealed within the handle is called the tang. Knives with what is called a “full tang” will have this piece of metal (or other material) visible along the edge of the handle, though many are made with the tang entirely hidden.
Forged and Stamped Knives
Another aspect to consider when shopping for your ideal kitchen knife is whether the blade is forged or stamped. The more common preference for professional chefs is a forged knife. As the name suggests, forged knives are made from solid pieces of molten metal, which are molded and beaten into shape. Forged knives tend to be more balanced and durable, though often at a higher price.
Stamped knives are essentially punched out of a sheet of flattened steel, and then sharpened. Stamped knives are considered lower quality and are thinner and more flexible. This is not usually ideal for multi-purpose chef’s knives, but can occasionally be advantageous for fileting or deboning.
Materials Used
One of the most important variables to consider when choosing your kitchen knife is the material it is made of, especially for the blade.
Stainless Steel
The most common by far, stainless steel blades are affordable, rust and corrosion resistant, and are reliable for cooks of all levels. Stainless steel blades are slightly softer than some other alternatives, so they need to be honed or sharpened more often, but their consistent quality has made them a classic for a reason.
Carbon Steel
More popular each year, carbon steel kitchen knives are becoming almost as popular as stainless steel in professional kitchens. The addition of carbon into the steel makes the knife’s blade much harder, helping it to keep a sharp edge for longer than the alternatives. This does come with a direct downside however, as the addition of carbon makes the steel less rust-resistant, though proper care and maintenance can offset this negative.
Ceramic
Another popular blade material is ceramic, as these knives tend to be inexpensive, strong, and lightweight. They are, of course, rust proof, and hold a sharp edge very well. The greater risk here is that they are far more likely to chip and break if not handled properly, but they are a great option for most home cooks.
Damascus Steel
Aside from more premium pricing, Damascus steel knives are a great meeting place between the benefits of carbon steel and stainless. With a carbon core placed inside of hand forged steel, these knives are strong, durable, hold a sharp edge very well, and are still more flexible and rust resistant than carbon steel. It can almost go without saying that Damascus steel is just about the most stunning option to look at.
Feel It Out
At the end of the day, the right knife for you is whichever feels right in your hands. Choose a few options based on your budget, materials and the blade types that fit your lifestyle best. Once you have those in mind, pick it up and see if the weight of the knife and contours of the handle suit you and your needs.
William Henry has a stunning selection of Damascus steel chef’s knives and full knife sets to suit your every need, click here to learn more.

Unlocking the Mystique of Labradorite
By William Henry
August 21, 2023
Gemstones have long been prized not only for their beauty but also for their perceived spiritual and healing properties. Among these precious stones, labradorite holds a unique position, its ethereal glow hinting at mysteries waiting to be uncovered. More than just a beautiful adornment, labradorite offers a captivating blend of history, symbolism, and enchanting color that invites exploration.
What Is Labradorite?
Labradorite is a type of feldspar, a group of minerals that make up approximately 60% of the Earth's crust. Named after Labrador, Canada, where it was first discovered in the 18th century, labradorite has since been found in other parts of the world, including Finland, Madagascar, and Ukraine.
What sets labradorite apart from its mineral kin is its striking optical display, known as labradorescence. This phenomenon, caused by internal fractures in the mineral that refract light back and forth, results in a spectacular play of colors. As the viewing angle changes, labradorite can exhibit a range of hues—blue, green, gold, pink, or a mix of these colors, resembling the mesmerizing glow of the Northern Lights.
In its natural state, labradorite appears fairly nondescript, often gray or dark in color. However, when light strikes it at the perfect angle, the stone comes alive with an array of vibrant colors, revealing its hidden beauty. This unique characteristic has made labradorite a popular choice in jewelry making, where it is cut and polished to best display its iridescent qualities.
But labradorite isn’t just a beautiful stone; it's also steeped in lore and symbolism. Various cultures have prized it for its perceived spiritual properties, seeing it as a stone of transformation and protection. It’s often used in meditation and spiritual practices, believed to enhance intuition and consciousness.
Craftsmanship: From Raw Stone to Finished Piece
Crafting a piece of labradorite gemstone jewelry is an art that requires skilled craftsmanship, patience, and a deep understanding of the stone's unique properties. This journey from raw stone to finished piece is an intricate process that transforms labradorite’s rough beauty into a wearable work of art.
Selection of the Stone
The first step in creating a piece of labradorite jewelry involves selecting high-quality raw stones. These are chosen based on their color intensity, clarity, and size. Only labradorite stones that display a vivid play of iridescent colors, a characteristic known as labradorescence, are selected for use in high-quality jewelry.
Cutting and Shaping
Once the labradorite stone has been selected, it is carefully cut and shaped by a skilled lapidary. This is a delicate process, as the angle at which the stone is cut greatly impacts the display of labradorescence. The goal is to maximize the stone's iridescent play of colors. After the stone is cut, it is then polished to a high shine to further enhance its natural beauty.
Designing the Piece
Meanwhile, jewelry designers draft a design for the piece, taking into account the shape, size, and color of the labradorite. Whether it’s a ring, bracelet, pendant, or a pair of cufflinks, each design is thoughtfully created to complement the stone and the wearer's style.
Setting the Stone
Next, the jewelry piece is crafted from metal—gold, silver, or platinum—and the labradorite is carefully set into it. This requires the delicate hand of a seasoned jeweler to ensure that the stone is securely placed while highlighting its best features.
Final Touches
After the labradorite is set, the piece undergoes final touches, which may include additional detailing on the metal, setting of other complementary gemstones, and a final polish to enhance the overall look of the piece.
How to Style Labradorite Jewelry
Labradorite, with its rich, iridescent play of colors and rugged charm, is a perfect gemstone for men's jewelry. Its intriguing color spectrum adds a sophisticated touch to any outfit, whether casual, professional, or formal. Here's how to incorporate labradorite jewelry into your style.
Casual Appeal
For a casual look, a labradorite beaded bracelet can be a stylish addition. It pairs well with watches and leather accessories, adding a unique texture and a pop of color. Consider pairing it with your favorite jeans and a simple t-shirt for an effortless yet stylish look.
Professional Sophistication
In a professional setting, subtlety is key. A labradorite tie pin or cufflinks can add a dash of individuality and intrigue to a classic suit. It's a simple way to incorporate gemstones into your attire without being overly flashy.
Formal Elegance
When it comes to formal events, labradorite gems can elevate your style. A labradorite ring or a tie clip can provide a focal point that draws the eye without overpowering your overall look. Paired with a dark suit, these pieces can truly stand out.
Layering and Combinations
Labradorite pairs beautifully with silver and gold, making it a versatile choice for any piece of jewelry. Try layering different pieces, like a labradorite pendant necklace with a silver chain, or pairing a labradorite bracelet with a classic watch.
Caring for Your Labradorite Jewelry
Caring for your labradorite jewelry is important in order to keep it looking its best. Avoid exposing your stone to harsh chemicals and extreme temperatures. Cleaning should be done with mild soap and water or a soft cloth. Be sure to store it away from direct sunlight and moisture to prevent fading or discoloration.
William Henry's Picks
From luxurious bracelets to stylish cufflinks, William Henry offers a variety of exquisite pieces featuring Labradorite, a gemstone known for its striking iridescence. Here, we share some of our top picks that perfectly encapsulate the allure and mystique of this fascinating gemstone:
Lux: This sterling silver bracelet is adorned with Labradorite, creating a captivating spectrum of colors. Its stainless button lock clasp is set with a spinel gemstone, ensuring both style and durability.
Nimbus: Featuring 'sugar skull' beads in gold and sterling silver, this bracelet is enhanced by the iridescence of Labradorite. Inlaid rubies and an 18k Rose Gold centerpiece add a luxurious touch.
Crescent: This beaded bracelet incorporates sterling silver skulls with iridescent Labradorite beads, making it a true statement piece. It's built on durable, welded aircraft cable for longevity.
Labradorite Shift: A sterling silver pendant showcasing an inlaid Labradorite centerpiece, it mirrors the colors of a dusky sky. Offered on an antique-finish silver chain, it includes an engraving plate for personalization.
Labradorite Pinnacle: Similar to the Shift, this sterling silver pendant presents a Labradorite centerpiece, radiating various hues. It is accompanied by an antique-finish silver chain and offers space for personal engravings.
Labradorite Identity: A polished sterling silver bracelet featuring an inlaid Labradorite centerpiece. Its button lock is inset with a spinel gemstone and includes engraving space on the back for a personalized touch.
Labradorite Retro: This polished sterling silver bracelet is inlaid with Labradorite, reflecting nature's colors. Completed with a spinel-inset button lock, this bracelet combines beauty and durability.
Labradorite Duo: These sterling silver cufflinks showcase Labradorite inlays, reflecting the rich tones of the evening sky. A versatile accessory essential for any gentleman's wardrobe.
Magician: A beaded bracelet made up of a palette of blues and greys, including Labradorite, sodalite, and blue tiger eye. Perfect for any attire, from casual to formal.
Moonlight: This beaded sodalite bracelet features an 18k Rose Gold encased South Sea pearl centerpiece, surrounded by the iridescence of Labradorite beads. Its 18k Rose Gold end caps and clasp complete the piece, paying tribute to nature's grandeur.
Dressing with Distinction
Labradorite is a gemstone that not only captures the eye but also the imagination. Its captivating iridescence and timeless appeal make it a fitting choice for the fine craftsmanship that William Henry is renowned for. Unveil the magic and mystery of labradorite with William Henry's selection of exquisite pieces, each a unique homage to this remarkable stone.
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15 Unique Gifts for Men That Have Everything
15 Unique Gifts for Men That Have Everything
By William Henry
November 9, 2022
Everybody has that friend, the guy who always seems to look sharp and has the latest gadgets. It can be tough to shop for people who seem to know themselves so well that they probably have a better version of whatever you might think to get them.
For friends like these, you have to think a little bit outside of the box; a personal touch often counts for much more than the “perfect” item. Here are 15 gifts you can certainly put your heart into.
Knives
A longstanding classic gift for the man in your life is a good knife. Whether he is a cook, always out in the country, or just has an appreciation for fine craftsmanship, a well-made knife is one of the best gifts you can buy a guy.
1. Pocket Knives
A pocket knife is a cool gift for just about anyone. It is the perfect blend of utility and style, something that can be appreciated by any man. There is also a wide selection when it comes to designs and general looks, so you have a lot of opportunities to find one that you think is a perfect match for the one you are gifting it to.
If that is not enough for you, you can also get a pocket knife with a personalized engraving on the blade or handle to make it a more unique gift.
2. Kitchen Knives
Even men who have everything are bound to skimp on kitchen utensils on occasion. It can be hard to make yourself shop for a new set of kitchen knives when the old ones are still working just fine. Luckily for you, this is a perfect opportunity to get the man in your life a perfect gift that they will be glad to use almost every day.
A great set of kitchen knives that is corrosion resistant and made of high-quality materials will make each experience in the kitchen that much better and is an excellent way to show how well you know a person.
Accessories and Jewelry
Jewelry and accessories may not be the first things to come to mind when shopping for men, but these are ultimately the pieces that make or break a man’s look. Buying a ring or belt buckle for someone can be a risk, at the end of the day you are betting on how well you know your friend’s taste. As big as that risk may be, however, there are few feelings better than making that right call.
3. Belt Buckles
If you are shopping for a man who loves to shop for himself, it can be hard to pick out clothes and accessories and be sure that they will appreciate them. Belt buckles, however, are a greatly overlooked article of men’s fashion. A unique belt buckle not only makes for a memorable gift but has the potential to become a family heirloom as well.
While not all nice belt buckles have to be one-of-a-kind items, you certainly have more opportunities to find something iconic that you could not imagine anyone else wearing.
4. Rings
Even the best shoppers have trouble finding jewelry that suits them well, and this is one of the best places where a friend can show off how well they know you. Find your guy friend a stunning ring, and you may be responsible for an accessory that comes to define them.
A great ring that truly suits a man can convey a sense of power, adventure, and class. Make sure you put a lot of thought into it, and do not go shopping based on the price tag alone. If you are having trouble putting your finger on a ring you think he’ll love, try imagining his three best outfits. If the ring you are considering would complement them well, the decision is already made for you.
5. Bracelets
Whether he is a surfer or a stockbroker, a nice bracelet can convey elegance or a free spirit. There are many great options for bracelets and wristbands whatever his personal aesthetic may be. Classic chains go well with just about anything, but some may be better suited by a stronger statement like these unique sterling silver links by William Henry.
Some may look better with beaded rare stones and beautifully woven leather straps. The call is ultimately yours, so be sure to fully weigh the options.
6. Necklaces
Buying a necklace probably offers you the most leeway when trying to find that one perfect birthday gift. As long as the chain is of high quality, you can put practically anything onto it. The perfect pendant is one that looks like it was made for its owner, and nobody else.
Take what you know about the man in your life, and try to work from there. If he lives for the outdoor lifestyle, look for something like the King’s Claw, a carved and bronzed polar bear claw that gives off pure primal energy. Even just finding the right pendant with a unique stone pattern can make for an incredibly personal gift.
7. Cuff Links
A bit easier to pick out are cuff links. Knowing that they pretty much only go with formalwear gives you a bit of a leg up, and all you really need to do is picture your friend wearing them. If your friend is a minimalist and prefers the art of understatement, a sleek and elegant set of cufflinks like the Fordite Duo would be an excellent choice.
That said, simple things do not tickle everybody’s fancy. If he is a bit more of a standout with a rebellious side, there are many options that do anything but fade in with the crowd.
8. Wallets
A wallet is something that just about everybody uses daily, but that many people give no thought to. Sometimes it feels hard to justify going for a higher quality item when the cheap wallet they already have does the job just fine.
That makes a nice wallet a perfect gift since even the man who has everything can likely use a better one. It can be a slim card carrier or have the space for lots of cash and spare change, whatever you think suits them best. Whatever you go with, know that high-quality leather goods never go out of style.
9. Money Clips
Whether they simply prefer the aesthetic or do not use cards very often, some men might prefer to use a money clip over having to carry a bulky wallet around with them. While any bit of scrap metal can be used to make a functional money clip, there are certainly better and more handsome options for men of class.
Take a look at some of the money clips available at William Henry, made of hand-forged Damascus steel inlaid with unique gemstones and rare materials like 10,000 year old woolly mammoth tooth.
10. Cigar Cutters
If the guy you are shopping for truly does seem to have everything, then chances are he has already learned to appreciate a good cigar. If that is the case, there are better gift options than taking the risk of buying a case of cigars. No matter how high the quality, chances are you might strike out with something that simply does not please his taste buds.
That said, a good looking cigar cutter is another story entirely. This cool gift will not only come in handy for him as he enjoys a good puff but can make for a lovely display piece as well.
11. Pens
Pens may be some of the most common items out there, and the average person probably feels like they have lost more pens than they have ever bought, somehow. A great pen, however, can be an incredibly personal and unique gift that no man would dare to lose, again with incredible heirloom potential.
There are many wonderful options out there for good-looking and comfortable refillable pens, and the right fit will come down to the personal aesthetic of the owner. Consider those made of titanium or wood, which can often have a very classic mid-century modern look to them. Depending on your relationship with the guy you are picking it up for, you can opt to have a personal message engraved.
12. Journals
Perhaps best purchased in tandem with an iconic pen, a well-bound and sturdy journal can be a very good gift, even for the man who has everything. There is something about the endless potential of a clean and empty, expertly crafted journal, that makes it a very touching gift for anyone to receive.
He does not necessarily have to be an avid journalist or book lover, even if the guy you are shopping for just likes to jot down thoughts, notes, recipes, or the occasional story, a nice leather journal can last a lifetime and can be a great way to immortalize some memories.
Experiences
While there are many “common” gifts that can still feel unique to a person, such as those above, there are some guys who simply do not need a single item you could think to get them. While it is the thought that counts, it certainly is not a great feeling to buy someone a gift you know they do not plan to use. If that is the case, consider giving them the gift of a new experience.
13. Road Trip!
There is nothing more personal than planning a group outing for the best guy you know. It could be a weekend in Vegas, a day trip to do some sightseeing, or a two-week trek hitting all the best roadside attractions. Whatever you decide to go with, uninterrupted bonding time could be the perfect unique gift for the man who has everything.
14. Cruises
Maybe a trip was the right train of thought, but you think they might prefer to go it alone or with their partner or loved one. If that is the case, consider sending them on a fully planned trip like a cruise. This takes all of the work of planning out of their hands (and yours), and almost guarantees that they will have a cool new experience to thank you for.
15. Courses
Even men who have it all can use some more knowledge. Think back to past conversations, has your guy friend ever mentioned wanting to take a martial arts class? Maybe he has expressed he is not the most confident dancer. Whatever skill he may feel he is lacking, consider giving him a membership, at least long enough for him to try it out.
Whatever gift you decide to go with, make sure to put your whole heart into it. If the options feel like they are piling up too far, try looking through William Henry’s catalog of incredible and artisanal-crafted goods for the men in your life.

The Most High-End Pocket Knives of 2022
By William Henry
November 4, 2022
By their design, even the simplest of pocket knives can accomplish great things in the hands of an average outdoorsman. Just about all blade shapes, whether drop point, clip point, spearpoint, and whatever else can come in handy as an everyday carry knife, but there is something to be said for exceptional high-end, artisanal blades.
Why Spend Extra for a Luxury Knife?
Pocket knives may be one of the most common tools you can find around, but everyday carry knives that can truly elevate the look of a knife enthusiast are few and far between. While a more affordable pocket knife can handle the same tasks you may need it to, it is, at the end of the day, only a tool.
While they rarely come with a pocket clip, more high-end pocket knives become something akin to art, but with all the same function that you need and want. These pocket knives can be fashion statements, heirlooms, display pieces, all while still providing you with all the usability you expect from your blades.
Anywhere you search online, you are sure to find a great selection of handy and well-made pocket knives, for you to purchase. However, none will come anywhere close to the elegance and artistry of this selection, some of the best pocket knives that William Henry has to offer for those with a higher price range.
Collectable Folding Knives
The William Henry catalog hosts a number of gorgeous high-end pocket knives. These are hand-crafted with a variety of rare and exotic materials that make for truly unique pieces in any collection. Most do not feature a long blade, but the blade materials and inlays on the frames all make for a great knife.
Galaxy
This stunning spearpoint pocket knife comes to William Henry from Chad Nichols, one of the premier Damascus artisans in the United States. The folding knife is made up of a hand-forged ‘Cosmic’ pattern Damascus blade, set in a ‘Twist’ Damascus frame, also hand forged. The Galaxy’s frame is inlaid with carved agate scales and a set diamond button frame lock and thumb stud to allow for one-handed opening.
With a razor sharp blade length of 3.25 inches and a total open length of seven inches, it is perfectly sized for easy carrying in any occasion. The Galaxy comes with a gorgeous leather carrying case and elegant wooden box for displaying in your home. This blade is a perfect statement piece to be worn and used by the adventurers and dreamers among us.
Aspen
The Aspen features a stunning Persian style upswept blade shape crafted from high-quality steel in a ‘Wave’ Damascus pattern and a core of extra hard VG-10 stainless steel. The blade is set in a titanium frame with gorgeous yellow spalted birch inlaid on the handle. Like the Galaxy, the frame also has thumb studs and button frame lock, though these are instead set with citrine gems.
The Aspen’s blade length is 2.5 inches and features elegant curves and smooth but firm lines. The Aspen has an open length of 5.6 inches, a stunning option for you to consider for an everyday carry knife.
Coral Reef
William Henry’s Coral Reef also features a similarly gorgeous ‘Wave’ patterned Damascus blade steel in a Persian blade shape with a VG-10 core. The frame, however, is more sleek with a heat-blued ‘Wave Mokume’ design which is breathtaking to behold. The vibrant heat-blued colors sit beautifully against the mother of pearl inlay.
Coral Reef is similarly sized to the Aspen, with the open blade forming the classic ‘S’ blade shape that is a hallmark of Persian blades. The reliable frame lock button and thumb stud make this blade perfect for one-hand usage, and are set with Paua gemstones, also known as Sea Opal. This knife makes for an incredible piece of artistry and can come in handy in any number of situations.
Hand-Engraved Pocket Knives
For those looking for an even more unique items, these hand-engraved knives are among the best pocket knives money can buy, and each sport incredibly beautiful designs you will not find elsewhere. While any good pocket knife will do for the average user, few everyday carry knives would make you look as good as these folding blades.
25th Anniversary
A true exemplar of the William Henry spirit is the 25th Anniversary, a special edition product of which there are only 25. The 25th Anniversary holds a hand-forged Damascus spear point blade steel. Created by Mike Noriss, the blade has a unique ‘Hornets Nest’ pattern that you will rarely find elsewhere.
The blade is set into a hand-engraved frame with 24k gold inlays made by Bottega Incisioni, as well as 10,000 year old Wooly Mammoth tooth on the grip. The stud and button lock for this knife are set with beautiful black onyx stones. This 7.19 inch knife would make for a once-in-a-lifetime gift to yourself or your loved ones.
Trout & Fly
Especially in terms of design, the Monarch Trout & Fly is possibly the best pocket knife available at William Henry. This knife features a beautiful handle with 24k gold inlay in a trout design by Tim George and Lisa Tomlin, a stunning example of expert craftsmanship. The stud and button lock are set with Kashmir blue topaz gems, once believed to grant strength and dispel curses.
Also hand-forged by Chad Nichols, the blade has an eye-catching ‘Intrepid’ blade steel pattern, bringing the whole piece together for the viewer. The total open length of this knife is 6 inches, making it very convenient as a lightweight pocket knife. This incredible knife is only one of ten, so there is no time to waste.
Joker’s Wild
Also featuring 24k gold inlays by Italian jeweler Bottega Incisioni is Joker’s Wild. In addition to the gold inlays, the stainless steel frame was hand engraved over hundreds of hours with artwork by Mick Butterworth and set with black onyx gemstones. Joker’s Wild also holds a hand-forged ‘Intrepid’ style spearpoint Damascus blade by Nichols.
The limited edition design of the frame features skeletal imagery as well as many references to card and table games. While you should never gamble away a piece as stunning as this, Joker’s Wild is sure to get you into any high-stakes game, and would make you the subject of envy at any card table.
William Henry Exclusives
These limited production knives will not be around for long and are only carried by specific sellers, consider picking one out as a one-of-a-kind gift for a loved one.
Unicorn 2022
Exclusively available at Unicorn, located in Woodstock, Vermont, the Unicorn 2022 is a rare William Henry piece, with only 18 crafted in this edition. The design of the frame is a ‘Wave’ mokume gane design, a Japanese metal-working process that creates these beautiful overlapping patterns, and it is inlaid with an elegant sheet of mother of pearl.
The ‘Copper Wave’ Damascus blade, a signature design of William Henry’s, holds a VG-5 core and is set into the frame with Kashmir blue topaz gemstones. The Unicorn 2022 is a distinctive piece that is easy on the eyes and in the hands. All blades are engraved with a serial number to ensure authenticity in this limited edition.
Pono
Only carried by Hildgund Jewelry, located in select Hawaiian resorts, the Pono’s blade is made of ‘Copper Wave’ Damascus blade steel with a VG-5 stainless steel core. The blade is set in a beautiful ‘Wave’ mokume gane frame inlaid with curly koa wood, native to the Hawaiian islands.
The ‘kestrel’ style knife has a very classic look that goes perfectly with the stunning wood grain of the koa. This pocket knife is a total length of 5 inches and is perfect for use with one hand, it also comes with an elegant leather carrying case and wood presentation box.
Fixed Blade Knives
These small fixed blade knives are meticulously assembled with hand-forged Damascus steel and a variety of stunning inlays. While these sharp blades are a bit too fancy for a pocket clip, these corrosion resistant knives come with a stunning leather sheath for easy carrying and storage.
Burlwood
This fixed blade knife is made from a solid piece of forged Damascus in 108 layers, grinded down to make the Burlwood come to life. To create a blade with better edge retention and a hardness of HRC 59-60, alternating layers of chromium stainless steel and cobalt are utilized. The solid Burlwood knife is inlaid with American Maple Burl, each piece naturally featuring unique shapes and forms in the grain of the wood.
The frame is double etched in a Damascus pattern and polished. While not as limited as some of William Henry’s other blades, only 250 Burlwood knives have been made. This knife comes with a sturdy leather sheath and documents to prove authenticity. While this solid knife boasts a total length of 8 inches, the sheath is still well sized to carry on your belt or in your pocket with ease.
Grove
The Grove is simple, sleek, and well-executed. The Raven style knife is forged from over 60 layers of three different alloys with a core of VG-10 to ensure optimal corrosion resistance and sharpness. The hilt holds an inlay of stabilized orange spalted beechwood, a beautiful feature that shows the beginning of the decomposition process on the wood.
The knife is framed in a black G-10 handle made of high-pressure fiberglass laminate, a type of composite. The handle includes an open channel surrounding the beechwood inlay, allowing you to see the Damascus steel in the tang beneath. This knife is clean, straightforward, and incredibly handsome, a great piece to have in your pocket or on your belt.
William Henry has the greatest selection of high-end pocket knives you can find, but be sure to explore the website to find stunning leather goods, jewelry, and some of the finest artisans in the world today.

Does How You Cut a Cigar Make a Difference?
By William Henry
November 2, 2022
There are many different methods and tools for cutting a cigar, and many aficionados will often have a preference for one way, as well as some reasoning behind it. This ultimately does come down to personal preference, but that is something that can only be developed over time.
For those not yet initiated in the world of cigar smoking, the different ways to prepare a cigar for smoking may be overwhelming or even seem arbitrary. While it may be confusing to those who do not understand the reasoning, the way you may choose to cut your cigar is far from arbitrary, and will certainly make a difference in how a cigar smokes.
Different Cigar Cutters
Cigars have been around for over a millennium since Mayans first started to roll tobacco in palm and plantain leaves. As a result of being a practically ancient tradition, it is natural that a multitude of methodologies and cutters have been developed by the various cultures that interacted with the practice.
While the different kinds and styles of cigar cuts are practically limitless, there are a few cigar cutters and cutting methods that have been accepted as more common or standard as the practice has developed.
Cigar Scissors
Usable for all kinds of cigars as long as you do so with care, cigar scissors are pretty self-explanatory. These cutters are smaller, wider, and stouter than a standard pair of scissors. They have thick, wide blades that can make a clean slice through the paper and filling without catching and tearing at the cigar’s end.
Similarly to how you should not use duller children’s arts and crafts scissors on fabric and other materials, you absolutely should not attempt to use any scissors that are not explicitly cigar scissors, on your cigars.
Standard scissors are not sturdy or powerful enough to cleanly cut through the materials in a cigar without getting messy cuts. Most likely, you will wind up with a messy and torn-up end of the cigar, and find yourself spitting out bits of tobacco and paper.
Punch Cutter
One of the cleanest and most efficient methods for cutting your cigars is using a punch cutter. Unlike the other various options that slice off the end of your cigar to create the opening for smoke, the punch cutter simply pops a little hole in like a hole-punch might. There are a few different kinds of punch cutters as well, but they all work pretty similarly.
The main characteristic that defines a cigar punch is that the blade is circular. Depending on the style of cigar punch, you may need to pull apart the device to use the blade, or it could be on the end of the punch. The punch cutter may even be controlled by a button on the side of the device. Regardless of the specifics of your particular punch cutter, this rotary blade pushes into and cuts out a small cylinder of material from the end of your cigar.
This makes for a very attractive-looking cut, and significantly less loose tobacco coming into contact with your mouth. These may not be the best option for thinner cigars or cigarillos, as the hole may be too large, but they make for very easy and efficient cigar cutters.
Straight Cutter
The straight cigar cutter is by far the most famous cigar-cutting tool available, and you are sure to have seen one before. These cutters can have one or two blades and are often referred to as “guillotine” cutters due to their appearance.
These guillotine cutters have a hole in the center for you to insert your cigar, and one or two blades attached that meet in the hole. When you press the blade or blades into the hole that has a cigar in it, the blade(s) neatly slice through the captive cigar.
It is critical to use a sharp enough straight cutter, and it is often beneficial to opt for a two-blade straight cutter. Doing so will ensure that you get a clean cut, and minimize the risk of tearing. A dull cutter will hack away leaving you with an unpleasant mess to clean up, possibly ruining the cigar. Dual-blade guillotine cutters also help by applying equal pressure from both directions, helping you get a more even slice out.
V-Cutter
A bit of a cross between the guillotine cutter and the punch cutter is the V-cutter. Much like the punch cutter, this tool does not cut the entire end off of a cigar but rather removes a smaller, more exact amount of material to make for a cleaner and more simplified experience.
That said, in appearance and usage, it can strongly resemble the straight cutter. The V-cutter has a hole in the center, much like the guillotine variety, though it is in a slit shape rather than being large enough for the entire width of the cigar to fit into.
After pulling the blade out, you can insert the end of your cigar, and again press the blade back into the device through the cigar. This will cut a wide slit into the end of your cigar if that is your preferred method for cutting.
In fact, another popular style of cutting a cigar with a V-cutter is the X-cut, also known as the star cut. To get a proper star cut in a cigar, the smoker uses a V-cutter to punch a slit in the cigar, then rotates the cigar to punch another slit perpendicular across the first. This leaves them with an X shape cut into the cigar, depending on their preference.
How is the Taste Impacted by Cutting?
The taste and overall experience of smoking a cigar is greatly impacted by how the cigar is cut. What this really comes down to, though, is simply the amount of smoke that can pass through a cigar. Much like the way that each cutter works in a particular way, the quality and concentration of the smoke can come down to the hole you leave for it.
Punch Cuts
As mentioned previously, a punch cutter removes a very neat and exact cylinder of material from the end of a cigar. This results in a fairly small opening for smoke to pass through, which means that the flavor and aroma will be significantly more concentrated.
If you prefer a stronger, more intense flavor from your cigars, punch cuts will likely be your ideal method. Some do argue that punch cuts concentrate not only the flavor, but also the heat from your cigar, and maybe a bit overwhelming for the average cigar smoker.
Guillotine and Scissor Cuts
Straight cutters and cigar scissors are on the other end of the spectrum. While a punch cutter only leaves a small gap for the smoke to escape from, guillotine cuts and cuts made from scissors are often less precise, and remove a much larger portion of the cigar’s cap.
With these cuts, the cigar will burn a little cooler and the flavor will be less concentrated. This should provide you with a more mellow, well-rounded flavor profile.
V- and X-Cuts
A bit of a happy medium between the wider straight and scissor cuts and the more precise and narrow punch cuts, V-cuts and X-cuts cut directly across the cap, without removing it entirely. While the smoke is still more concentrated, it should not be nearly as powerful or warm as a cigar with a punch cut.
Cut Consistency
Generally speaking, guillotine cutters and cigar scissors allow you the most control over how much of the cigar cap is removed. While this can be helpful for a cigar lover with more experience, this can be trouble for those newer to the hobby. Cut too deeply into the cigar, and you can destroy the structural integrity of the cigar as a whole.
Cutting the cap entirely off will not only strongly impact the flavor (much of which is picked up just by having the cap in your mouth), but can cause your cigar to unravel and fall apart.
The benefit of tools like V-cutters and punch cutters is that there is a limit to how much of your cigar they are able to remove. So long as your cutters are properly maintained and sharp enough, they will remove a finite amount of the cap, and should not be able to cause the cigar to fall apart.
William Henry has a gorgeous selection of luxury folding knife straight cutters. These knives have a titanium frame fitted with stunning exotic materials and a 52-gauge hole for your cigars. Attached is an artisan Damascus steel blade, with quality you would have a hard time finding elsewhere. Whether as a gift for a friend or a treat for yourself, take a look at this collection of cigar cutters by William Henry.

Why You Should Sniff and Smell Your Cigars
By William Henry
October 13, 2022
Taking a deep inhale with a cigar under your nose is a classic and crucial part of the process. For those less familiar with the ins and outs of being a cigar aficionado, however, the process may seem unnecessary, or possibly even silly. This could not be further from the truth.
Regardless of your level of expertise with cigars, getting a good whiff is a part of the cigar-buying experience that cannot be overlooked. There are several very good reasons to sniff your cigars before and between smoking them, and they certainly make a noticeable difference in the experience.
Smell and Memory
Of all of our senses, the smell is known to be the one most closely tied to our memories. Whiffing a stranger’s perfume can send you shooting back to thoughts of someone you once knew who wore the same scent. Smelling a particular dish can often bring back memories of your childhood or other times you have spent in the kitchen.
In the same vein, the way a cigar smells can impact your emotions in many different ways. If you smoke a cigar at a birthday or wedding, a cigar with a similar scent will take you back to those times. A cigar that smells good to you will be one that impacts your emotions in the same way that a fresh cup of coffee might, or the feeling that you may have walking through a spice shop.
The goal in this case is to find a cigar that taps into something, be it nostalgia, joy, or anything else, without utterly overwhelming your senses. This is not to say that you will never enjoy a cigar that does not tug on a particular memory, but the different notes you can pick out in the aroma of a cigar may touch at different parts of your emotions and strongly influence the experience of smoking cigars.
Get a Full Profile
In addition to being very strongly connected to our memories, the human sense of smell is tied incredibly closely to our sense of taste. Much like the classic children's experiment of plugging one’s nose for several minutes only to find that one can no longer taste, taking a good whiff can give you a great preview of the cigar’s flavor.
This is not to say that the smell and taste are always a one-for-one match, but you can simply get a good hint of what is to come. For example, you can usually get a solid grasp of how mellow or sharp the flavor may be, or whether there are any chemical scents lying beneath the other various notes. As you become more experienced, you will definitely get better at pinpointing particular attributes that you enjoy or abhor.
When you do eventually smoke your cigar, a huge part of the experience will be the smell of the smoke and the cigar under your nose. This winds up ultimately impacting the way the smoke and foot of a cigar taste in your mouth. Even if the taste does not line up perfectly with the scent, you will be able to pick up a large part of the flavor profile simply by inhaling deeply.
What to Look For
Just walking into a cigar shop, you will most likely be overwhelmed with different scents from the many different cigars. Pleasant though the general aroma may be, this can certainly confuse your nose when trying to focus on a specific cigar that you are considering. Before sniffing cigars, also ensure that they are not wrapped in cellophane or plastic.
You may assume since there are so many scents around you that the cigar’s particular aroma will come through, but more likely you are just smelling the surroundings more than the particular cigar itself. Bear in mind that this can often mean you have to buy a cigar to sample the smell, but sometimes paying to pull the cellophane off of a bad cigar is just part of the process.
Once you have unwrapped the cigar, take a long sniff from the foot of the cigar, then run the length of the cigar below your nostrils, breathing deeply. This way you should be able to pick up the various aspects of smell from the different parts of the cigar, forming a more complete picture for you.
Your focus during this process should be to pick up as many flavor notes as you can notice. If a cigar immediately smells terrible to you, it is a near-sure sign that you will not enjoy the process of smoking it. Oftentimes this might be the smell of ammonia or other chemicals is a sure sign of a poor-quality cigar that you will want to steer clear of.
Even if you do not know the particular notes and attributes to look for when inhaling the smell of a cigar, the biggest takeaway is simple. If you smell a cigar and find that the scent is appealing to you, you are far more likely to enjoy smoking it than you would otherwise.
If you do find yourself getting more interested in cigars, William Henry has a gorgeous selection of unique and artisan-made cigar cutters. These stunning Damascus steel folding knives include a thru-hole in their titanium frame, accommodating cigars up to 52-guage size. Whether you are treating yourself or buying a gift for the cigar aficionado in your life, you will be hard-pressed to find a better product to cut your cigars.

Types of Pocket Knives and Their Uses
By William Henry
October 10, 2022
The pocket knife is a classic and timeless piece of equipment that has found itself clipped to many a belt over the years. Though the pocket itself wasn’t invented until the 1600s, folding knives date back to as early as 600 BC.
While any pocket knife can be an incredibly versatile tool in and of itself, using a specific kind of knife for its intended purpose can go a long way in improving your knife work.
Though the blade length of a pocket knife is considered to be up to about 6 inches long, the different styles of knives, edge types, and blade shapes are as varied as the many different things you could find to do with them. This simple guide will walk you through some of the most common kinds of pocket knives.
Slip Joint Knives
Though not quite as secure as a locking blade, slip joint knives are probably the most popular style of pocket knife. By using small springs, knife manufacturers learned how to use tension to hold the blade open, though the blade can be shut with relative ease compared to a locking knife.
Despite seeming like a disadvantage, the ease-of-use makes slip joint knives the best choice for light tasks. Most classic pocket knives are in fact slip joint knives. Even if you didn’t know which category they fell into, here are some you’ve probably heard of.
Barlow Knife
One of the more popular offerings in the 1700s and still going strong today, the barlow features a long oval handle, often with one pen blade and one clip point.
Camper Knife
The most recognizable of all campers would be the swiss army knife, though many multi-tools could be considered camper knives. They most often include several different types of blades, as well as common tools such as a bottle opener and corkscrew.
Congress Knife
Another historical classic, the congress knife features four blades, two on each end of the handle, which all fold to meet at the center. The blades most common to a congress knife would be a sheepsfoot, spearpoint, pen blade, and coping blade.
Canoe Knife
Named after the shape of the knife when its two blades are put away, the canoe knife usually includes one pen blade and one drop point blade.
Trapper Knife
Famously useful for trappers, this knife included two blades perfect for working with wild game. The spey blade, used for spaying and neutering herd animals, sits alongside a clip point, a very useful tool when it comes to skinning hides from the hunt.
Pen Knife
A delicate blade designed for the purpose of sharpening a quill as needed over time, the pen blade has maintained its popularity long after its original usage became obsolete. Traditionally a pen knife would include one pen blade opposite another type of blade.
Tactical Folding Knives
Another of the more common types of pocket knife would have to be the tactical folding knife. First developed so that soldiers on the field would be able to open their blade single-handed and without having to dig into the nail nick, tactical folding knives have become a standard for many pocket knife collectors for their durability and ease-of-use.
To circumvent the need for the nail nick, knife manufacturers began adding features such as studs and small holes on the blade where the user could press their thumb against to rotate the blade open. In addition to being easier to open with one hand, tactical knives usually come with a belt clip for easy carrying, as well as having both straight and serrated edges on the blade for greater flexibility of use.
Locking Knives
Locking blade knives are another popular style of pocket knife, finding a middle ground between safety and convenience. While they all accomplish essentially the same thing, these are some of the more common locking mechanisms on the market today.
The most standard of the options would most likely be the liner lock. Once you have opened the blade, the lock sets into place, making it impossible to fold the knife closed again without pressing the steel liner aside to allow the joint to spin back into place.
Very similar is the frame lock, however, rather than pressing on a liner within the frame to release the lock, you would instead press the appropriate spot on the frame itself.
For tasks that require a bit firmer of a hand and might take a lot of strength, some knives come with a lockback mechanism, which is like an arm that can be hooked into place to brace the knife against closures. Much like the lockback, the midlock mechanism braces the blade open, though the trigger was moved to the middle of the handle to avoid accidents.
Another classic lock is, of course, the ring lock, which can be twisted into place after the blade has been opened. Once turned back to its original placement, the lock is disengaged and can allow the blade to return to the handle.
Blade Shapes
Listed before may be some of the more common styles of pocket knife and some of the blades that famously go with them, but here is a more comprehensive description of the different styles and shapes of blades.
Tanto blades
Originating in Japan, the Tanto shape comes from the Katana. Known for being very sharp, Tanto blades are excellent for piercing and cutting.
Clip Point Blade
The clip point is probably the most popular blade you can find on a pocket knife. It is easy to control with a tip that is good for piercing, though it is a little on the weaker end due to how narrow the blade is.
Spey Blade
The spey blade, presumably named after a strange spelling of “spay,” is a very peculiar blade style with an almost flat edge to the top and then a sharp curve to the tip. Its origins date back to the castration of cattle with the purpose of causing as little damage as was necessary. This has become a common shape in many of the utility knives that we use today.
Sheepsfoot Blades
This straight blade was intended to provide a large cutting area for shepherds to be able to trim the hooves of the sheep in their flocks. While trimmers and files have largely filled that need, the sheepsfoot is still an incredibly popular blade for whittling wood.
Gut Hook
Just what it sounds like, the gut hook is a feature that can often be found on other blades, most often those intended for hunting. The hook has a sharpened edge at the center of its curve, used to help skin wild game without damaging anything under the skin.
Spear Point
Spear points are another classic look, often seen in daggers and throwing knives. While it is not always the case, spear point blades often have two sharp edges, as opposed to the standard one. While they have many uses, spear points are, as the name suggests, best for jabbing and spearing.
Serrated Edge
Serrated edge blades are scalloped and grooved, which serve to cut tough materials with a hard exterior and a soft interior. Its teeth are similar to those of a saw, and function in about the same way.
Wharncliffe Blades
Popular among sailors and found on some survival or tactical knives, Wharncliffe blades look strikingly similar to a sheepsfoot, though with a sharper point. Wharncliffe blades aren’t among the most common, but they are still used from time to time.
Drop Point Blade
One of the more versatile blade types, the drop point is very useful for controlled cuts and piercing. They are incredibly similar to clip point blades, but stronger due to having a broader tip.
Luxury Knives
Decorative designer knives come in all combinations of knife style and blade shape, though they often feature a greater flair. This is exhibited in the usage of rare materials, such as meteorite and 10,000-year-old fossilized mammoth tusk, as well as precious gems and stone inlays.
Combined with unique blades such as those with stunning Damascus wave patterns, as well as handles with one-of-a-kind etchings, a luxury knife allows you to personalize your experience a step further. William Henry offers the best in decorative pocket knives for men from all walks of life. Look through our catalogue of artisan blades crafted from the greatest possible materials.

The Qualities of a Good Pocket Knife
By William Henry
September 30, 2022
There are few, if any, accessories that are as classic, personal, and versatile as the pocket knife. Whatever your need or personal style may be, there is a great blade out there that suits it. With so many options available out there, it can be hard to know what makes for a great knife.
Whether you are an avid outdoorsman, looking to make a fashion statement, or simply want a unique family heirloom to leave behind, these are the things that make for a quality pocket knife to look for when shopping.
Design
Counterintuitive though it may be, the biggest concern for the average shopper is the overall design of a given pocket knife. Often the first thing that you will be looking at when searching for your everyday carry (EDC), the look of a great pocket knife will be what draws you to it in the first place, and will usually be what holds your attention.
Nowadays, knife manufacturers make blades and handles from a wider variety of materials which used to be unattainable for any but the wealthiest and elite. While good steel in a solid wood frame never fails, the modern blade enthusiast can find options slightly more out-of-the-box that might suit their personal style better than cheap knives.
It goes without saying that whatever blade you choose should be stainless and rust resistant, with decent corrosion resistance as well. Beyond this mark, however, there are many designs to choose from. A classic which has made a major restoration in recent times is Damascus steel, a method of forging steel that gives it a stunning wavy and mottled look. Another example, carbon steel, is great for chefs as it has good edge retention.
As a great knife maker is always looking for a new edge and updated methods, some have even come to craft Damascus with other materials set within the waves, such as copper.
The handle, too, makes up a large part of the overall look of a good knife, and will be critical in your decision to purchase one. If you fancy yourself a rugged outdoorsman, you might have your sights set on a sturdy and elegant finish, such as red poplar or a sleek fossilized bone.
If you are more of a man-about-town looking to make a statement, there are many knife handle options that feature gemstone inlays, meteorite, as well as stunning and uniquely engraved metals.
Whatever design catches your eye along your search, make sure it suits your personality. Your favorite pocket knives should feel like extensions of yourself.
Blades
Outside of the design and look of a pocket knife, one of the most important things to think about when purchasing a knife is the style of blade steel that it contains.
While many pocket knives, such as the classic Swiss Army knife, come with a multitude of straight and serrated edge blade shapes and other tools for various occasions, you may not have need for all of them. If you are purchasing a pocket knife for general use, this might not be an issue for you. That being said, if you have a specific need, you will need to find the right blade to suit it.
Probably the most popular blade style, the drop point can be great for most general uses, but comes in especially handy for hunters that need to do a lot of slicing with more tactical folding knives. Similar to this is the clip point, in which the knife steel has a thinner spine near the tip, allowing for deeper punctures, but not the best for whittling wood.
Another common contender would be the sheepsfoot blade. A style you have likely come across, this blade shape is designed to have a straight spine and be flatter at the tip, to prevent accidental stabbing. Nowadays, they are most useful for rescue scenarios such as cutting through a seatbelt to get to someone after a car accident.
Whatever your particular needs for a knife may be, make sure that you choose a blade that suits them.
Size and Weight
When it comes to the practical use of your prospective pocket knife, the most important thing to take into consideration is the size and weight of the knife. If it is uncomfortable for you to grip or carry your pocket knife, it will likely only cause you more problems in the long run. You also need to consider the blade length that best suits your intended usage.
Even if you find the most beautifully designed knife in the world, if it is too heavy for you to use with precision, it will be practically useless to you. A knife that is too small or big for your hands might do the trick if you have no other options, but for your EDC, look further. You want to be sure that the knife holds firm in your hand, without you having to worry about it slipping.
If your pocket knife is intended for the odd common task, you may not be too concerned about the weight. That said, if you are someone who will be using your new knife regularly, a heavier blade might leave you tired much sooner into use.
Another important thing to bear in mind is local law regarding pocket knives. Some countries, states, and cities have laws against blades of a certain length, so it is important to ensure you only ever carry knives with a blade length that is legal in your area.
Locking Mechanisms
Another aspect to consider when looking for the best pocket knife is how it opens and closes. Many pocket knives nowadays come standard with locking styles of various kinds to protect the user from accidentally closing the blade on their fingers. If you do want a knife that locks the blade in place, you have several types of mechanisms available.
One style of mechanism is the liner lock, which utilizes steel liners that can be pushed to disengage the knife securely. Similar to this is the frame lock, where instead of pushing aside an inner layer you merely press appropriately on the frame itself to return the blade. Some larger knives use a ring lock, which you engage by turning the ring at the end of the handle holding the blade open.
Some pocket knives are made with spring-loaded mechanisms, allowing you to pop the blade out with the press of a button or pressure in the right place. If that is the kind of knife that interests you, however, be sure to look into local regulations which often vary on the specifics of which spring mechanism and one-handed opening may be acceptable.
If you do not have a need for any of these mechanisms at all, you can of course opt for folding knives that can be opened and closed normally, without any other steps. Another option that may suit you could be fixed blade knives, to be sheathed instead of folded.
Accessories and Carrying
To best maintain the lifespan and quality of any knife you choose to purchase, make sure that you consider any knife accessories you may need. Some knives are sold with additions such as lubricants, pouches, oils, cleaning products, sharpening tools, and more. While not all knives are sold with these included, and the accessories are not always crucial, it is something to look into.
Many of the best pocket knives will also come with instructions and tips for the proper care of the specific knife. While many methods are universal, check for any instruction particular to your knife before attempting to maintain it.
In addition to accessories for the care of your knife, you will also have to consider how you would like to carry your knife more comfortably. For many people, a solid belt clip is a suitable and convenient way to secure their knives without adding bulk to their pockets. Depending on if you opt for a fixed blade knife or folding knife, you will probably need a sheath to go with it.
Another common option, especially for a small pocket knife, would be to place it on a key ring. For those looking to blend fashion and function, a more elegant option might be to place it on a chain as a pendant for a necklace to keep it close at hand.
The care of a luxury pocket knife is important, especially for pieces you want to last. Especially for hand-forged blades, only professionals are recommended to sharpen for themselves.
How often a blade may need to be sharpened depends on the specific knife manufacturer and methods. For example, William Henry 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 willl get it done for you.
When you find yourself looking for a great pocket knife that you can count on or pass down, these are all things you ought to take into consideration. William Henry offers some of the best pocket knives in a range of incredible Damascus steel patterns, some featuring the stunning Copper Wave, set in a variety of handles ranging from mammoth tusk to sterling silver, and they are all made to last.
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.

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.

Safety Tips for Your Kitchen Knives
By William Henry
August 30, 2022
No matter how much experience you have as a cook, it is vitally important to keep in mind that knives can be incredibly dangerous and harmful if used improperly. Regardless of how confident you are in your knife skills, or how much time you have spent in the kitchen, you are not immune to accidents.
There is no way to make working with a tool designed for cutting absolutely, 100% safe, but there are certainly some steps you can take to reduce the risk of a tragic or painful error.
Sharpening
While it may even seem counterintuitive, the most important thing you can do to stay safe while working with knives is to ensure that they are as sharp as possible. While a blunt knife may sound like it is less likely to cut you, using them requires you to exert far more force than is normal. As a result, it is more likely for a dull knife to slip and cause injury. No matter how dull it may be, a thin piece of steel moving fast can cause serious damage.
There are two standard options when it comes to this, those being honing steel (often misnamed as sharpening steel) and a knife sharpener. The honing steel is a thin metal rod that, when pushed against the edge of a blade at the correct angle, corrects any little dents and bumps by pushing them back into a straight edge. These come standard with many kitchen knife sets and are definitely worth having.
Unlike the honing steel, a knife sharpener actually shaves steel away from the blade to create a new, sharpened edge. These are often faster and easier to use than honing steel, which may take some practice to master. That said, since sharpeners do in fact shave metal away from your knives, they cause your blades to wear down much faster than honing steel might.
Whether you prefer to use a sharpener or honing steel, maintaining sharp edges is perhaps the most vital part of ensuring kitchen knife safety. If you keep your knives sharp, the blades will more easily glide through whatever you are cutting with less risk of sliding off in the wrong direction.
If you aren’t comfortable sharpening your own kitchen knives, most knife manufacturers will let you send your knives back for professional sharpening. William Henry offers 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.
Surfaces
It may feel obvious, but always use your knives on a flat surface such as a cutting board or scratch-resistant counter. Using your kitchen knives on a plate could scratch or chip it, as well as lead to slipping and disaster. Even worse is cutting something directly in your hand. You may have done so successfully in the past, but it simply is not worth the very real risk of injury.
Usage
Another way to decrease your chances of nicking your fingers or worse is just to use the right knives for the right tasks. Kitchen knives are by their nature versatile tools, but using the right ones will help you avoid accidents or injury.
There are many types of kitchen knives ranging from the standard chef’s knife to tools as specified in their intended usage as the tomato knife. That said, there are only a couple of aspects of a sharp knife that generally would be considered crucial for ensuring safe usage of your kitchen knives.
First off would be the size of the blade. For example, if you are peeling fruits and vegetables or generally working with small foods, you should avoid using a knife with a large blade-like a chef’s knife or cleaver. A small paring knife would be a safer choice in this situation and would give you more control while you work.
The next most important example would be the kind of edge that your blade has. 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. A straight edge blade would not only squish the loaf, but possibly lead you to apply too much pressure out of frustration and cause the knife to slip.
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 want some standard blade types so that you can easily work with most foods in a safe and efficient manner.
Most important for any cook is a classic chef’s knife. The blade is firm and curved, making it very useful for chopping and slicing meats and vegetables. If you could only afford to buy yourself one kitchen knife, this would likely be it. That said, there are absolutely a few other knives that you should aim to have even at the start of your culinary journey.
The next most handy piece of equipment would be the paring knife. As mentioned above, the paring knife is especially useful when working with fruits and vegetables and for peeling, pitting, and other work that requires precision. Using a larger blade for these tasks is one of the most dangerous positions you can find yourself in when in the kitchen.
A serrated knife of some kind is also a great tool to have, and there are many affordable options for you to add it to your set.
Using the right knife for whatever you are cutting will not only make the cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable but also safer. As your collection grows, you will pick up more skills and tricks for properly using them.
Grip
Perhaps more vital than any other aspect of kitchen knife safety is making sure that you hold your sharp knives properly when using them. Proper grip and technique will not only keep you and your fingers safe, but will also make your cutting and chopping far more efficient.
Regardless of the type of knife, you are working with, you will almost always want to hold the handle of the knife firmly, with your thumb and pointer finger pinching together at the base of the blade. This will give you far more control over the movements that your knife makes, making it far less likely for you to experience knife slips or a falling knife.
Not only does gripping the blade this way afford you better control over the knife, it also allows you to use much more of your arm’s strength without putting added strain on your wrist.
Aside from your grip on the knife itself, also be careful to watch your other, “helping,” hand. Using your non-dominant hand, keep your fingers curled to a near fist when gripping your food, cutting alongside your curled digits. Doing so will help deflect any slices from hitting your fingers, as well as help you to make even, consistent slices and cuts.
Storage and Cleaning
While not as exciting as the other aspects of working with kitchen knives, proper maintenance and storage of your knives is 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 as well as lead to snagging during use.
Avoid tossing your knife into the sink and leaving it to bump and scrape against your other dishes. This is detrimental to the edge, and leaves you with a chipped knife, which can be incredibly dangerous to use. If you do decide to run your knives through the dishwasher, place them inside securely in a way that it will not shake and bump into other dishes. Otherwise, try to wash and dry your knives by hand immediately after use.
Another way to prevent damage to your knife is to store it in a block or attach it to a magnetic strip. Storing your knives in a kitchen drawer like the rest of your cutlery will make them shake around loosely and will certainly cause 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 don’t have much counter space, or don’t have enough knives to warrant a full-sized knife block, a magnetic strip is an easy and convenient place to keep a knife or two outside of the drawer.
William Henry has gorgeous knife sets perfect for beginners and professional chefs alike. Pick up a set of stunning Damascus steel kitchen knives with beautiful exotic wood handles and stone inlays. All sets come with a professional-grade leather roll with blade covers, as well as an elegant display block.