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Carbon Steel Knife Blade | FAQ

What is carbon steel?

Carbon steel is a type of steel that contains carbon as its primary alloying element. It is known for its durability, hardness, and ability to hold a sharp edge.

How is carbon steel different from stainless steel?

Carbon steel contains a higher percentage of carbon than stainless steel, which makes it harder and stronger. However, it is also more prone to rust and corrosion.

What are the advantages of carbon steel knives?

Carbon steel knives are known for their sharpness and edge retention. They are also easy to sharpen and can take on a very fine edge. In addition, carbon steel knives are usually more affordable than their stainless steel counterparts.

What are the disadvantages of carbon steel knives?

Carbon steel knives require more maintenance than stainless steel knives, as they are more prone to rust and corrosion. They also require more frequent sharpening, as the edge can dull more quickly.

How do I care for my carbon steel knife?

To prevent rust and corrosion, it's important to keep your carbon steel knife clean and dry. Avoid leaving it wet or damp for long periods of time, and never put it in the dishwasher. Instead, hand wash your knife with warm, soapy water and dry it thoroughly after each use. You may also want to oil the blade occasionally to protect it from rust.

Can I use my carbon steel knife to cut acidic foods?

Carbon steel knives are not recommended for cutting acidic foods, as the acid can react with the metal and cause discoloration or even damage to the blade. If you need to cut acidic foods, it's best to use a stainless steel or ceramic knife instead.

How often do I need to sharpen my carbon steel knife?

This will depend on how often you use your knife and what you use it for. Generally, carbon steel knives will need to be sharpened more frequently than stainless steel knives. You should sharpen your knife whenever it starts to feel dull or loses its edge. A honing steel can also help maintain the edge between sharpenings.

Explore Knife Care Essentials 

For maintaining carbon steel knives, we highly recommend having food-grade blade oil and a rust eraser from Japan.

Explore our knife care products.