High Carbon Steel - What is it ?
High carbon steel kitchen knives are popular among professional chefs and home cooks alike for their sharpness, durability, and ease of maintenance. Let’s explore what high carbon steel is, why it is used for kitchen knives, and how to care for high carbon steel kitchen knives to ensure they remain in top condition for years to come.
What is High Carbon Steel?
High carbon steel is a type of steel that contains more than 0.6% carbon by weight. This high carbon content makes the steel harder and stronger than other types of steel, such as stainless steel. High carbon steel is often used in applications where durability and toughness are essential, such as in the construction of tools, knives, and springs.
Why Use High Carbon Steel for Kitchen Knives?
High carbon steel is a popular choice for kitchen knives for several reasons. First, high carbon steel is incredibly sharp and holds its edge well, making it ideal for slicing, dicing, and chopping. Additionally, high carbon steel is more durable than other types of steel, so kitchen knives made from high carbon steel are less likely to chip or break during use.
Another benefit of high carbon steel is that it is easy to sharpen. While some types of steel are more challenging to sharpen, high carbon steel can be honed to a razor-sharp edge quickly and easily, even by novice knife users.
How to Care for High Carbon Steel Kitchen Knives
While high carbon steel kitchen knives offer numerous benefits, they do require proper care to maintain their sharpness and prevent rust or corrosion. Here are some tips for caring for high carbon steel kitchen knives:
Clean and dry the knife after each use. High carbon steel is more susceptible to rust and corrosion than other types of steel, so it is essential to clean and dry the knife thoroughly after each use. Use a mild dish soap and warm water to clean the blade, then dry it immediately with a clean towel.
Avoid putting the knife in the dishwasher. Dishwashers can cause high carbon steel knives to rust or corrode, so it is best to wash them by hand.
Store the knife properly. High carbon steel knives should be stored in a dry place to prevent rust or corrosion. Some people prefer to store their knives in a wooden knife block or on a magnetic knife strip, while others prefer to use a knife sheath or blade guard.
Sharpen the knife regularly. High carbon steel knives should be sharpened regularly to maintain their sharpness. Use a sharpening stone, being sure to maintain the knife's original angle.
Oil the knife occasionally. Applying a thin coat of food-grade mineral oil (we sell a good oil here)to the blade can help prevent rust and corrosion. Simply wipe a small amount of oil onto the blade with a clean cloth, then wipe off any excess.
To sum things up
High carbon steel kitchen knives offer numerous benefits, including sharpness, durability, and ease of maintenance. By following the tips outlined above, you can ensure that your high carbon steel kitchen knives remain in top condition for years to come, providing you with a reliable and effective tool in the kitchen.
