Caring For youR Knife
Thank you for purchasing an Ironwood Outfitters Knife!
Sharpening
Your Knife is Sharp! Please be careful in your handling of it and use only as intended. To keep your knife sharp and cutting well, only cut things intended to be cut (no your knife will not chop through steel), do not cut against hard surfaces such as concrete or metal, and do not use pull through sharpeners. If your knife needs sharpening, please sharpen it with appropriate stones. Should it need a more thorough approach, please contact us or reach out to one of the many sharpening services available.
Identifying Your Knife Steel
Your knife is either made from stainless steel or carbon steel. This will be noted on the Certificate of Authenticity included with each knife. If you have a question please reach out.
Carbon Steel
If your knife is made from carbon steel, it will require some care. If it gets wet, dry it and apply oil. Mineral Oil is a good food safe option, however, there are many oils designed specifically for knife care on the market that also work. For longer term care, wax all exposed metal after extended or hard use. This will help build up a barrier that will protect your knife even in storage. Do not store in the sheath. Minor changes in humidity can lead to rusting. Should your knife rust, carefully apply oil to the area and gently clean with 0000 Steel wool.
Stainless Steel
If your knife is stainless steel, it will require less routine maintenance. It will rust much less readily, however if it is exposed to moisture for an extended period of time, especially salt water, the knife still can oxidize. Remember to dry and oil your knife after use to reduce risk of oxidization.