The term “Damascus” goes back to primitive Western cultures that refer to an earlier style of craftsmanship that originated around 300 BC in Syria. Artistry was productive at the time and was named after the region that made it popular. You can read more about the historical aspect at Damascus Steel: Its History and Types. This attractive yet mysterious steel has caught the attention of many. Walk through this simple guide to extend the life of Damascus of all time.
Protect the Pattern
To protect the pattern efficiently, you can apply Renaissance Wax when the blade is completely dry to protect against fading and moisture. Because our Damascus steel knives are fused with stainless steel and several, softer metals, you don’t have to worry about fragmentation or flaking. Although the pattern can wear over time and therefore maintenance is a must. Oiling the Damascus steel blade gives it a rich shine to maintain its stunning pattern. The Vaseline coat or light oil effectively prevents the stain of the knife if you store it for a long time. In addition, you should polish the blade after every few months to prevent dirt and dust from accumulating on the blade.
Maintain the Edge
Damascus usually retains its edge for a while, although it dulls faster than a standard stainless steel blade. We recommend that you keep the lead with the Spyderco Triangle Sharp maker. If necessary, sharpen with a ceramic rod to prevent the knife from wetting.
Stain Clean Rust
If your knife is in a damp environment, it is likely to rust. The perfect way to tackle the problem is to clean your knife on the spot with a soft scrub. If you find any kind of pitting on the knife, it is particularly crucial to clean those spots immediately. Make sure the knife is stored in a dry area. If you plan to store your Damascus in leather cases for a long time, it will more likely rust because of the absorbent nature of the leather. In case you are still planning to store it in a leather case, you must fold the knife in a plastic package before you place it. In addition, you can clean the knife with sandpaper or steel wool that acts as a substantial cutting agent.
Keep Damascus Clean and Free of Moisture
Damascus sheets usually require more care because the carbon-rich metals that help create the pattern pose a high risk of corrosion. It is crucial to clean the knife as soon as it comes into contact with moisture and in particular with acidic materials such as steak or apple. We also recommend that you do not put your Damascus knife in the dishwasher. You can clean it with a soft sponge and warm foamy water. Then dry it with the dish cloth.
Conclusion
If you have not invested in a reliable handmade Damascus knife, consider adding one of the Damascus1 knives. The style and traditions of Damascus are still strong and given the mystique and special quality, they will certainly last a long time.
