High carbon steel blades are still the choice of modern professional chefs and those who appreciate their strength, lasting edge and ease of sharpening. Very little work with a steel will hone an edge that a stainless knife can rarely achieve. Weighted correctly, with a comfortable handle and blade shape appropriate for the task, the high-carbon steel knife will outperform an equivalent stainless steel knife.

However like any quality tool, a little maintenance is required.

Basic maintenance:

- Wash knife with hot, soapy water after use;

- Dry immediately with a towel;

- Use a steel angled at 20 to 25 degrees regularly to keep the blade sharp;

- Use of a stone at intervals, will remove the microgrooves created by the steel and reset the razor sharp edge;

Storage:

- Pass a lightly oiled cloth (such as olive oil or vegetable oil) over the length of the blade and exposed metal;

- A leather scabbard will protect the edge from damage but not always from rust. A period technique involved a second inner scabbard of oil soaked textile, loosely tacked to the edges of the leather outer scabbard.

Do Not:

- leave the blade unwashed after use; food residues will mark and pit the blade;

- wash your knife in the dishwasher; The corrosive agents used in the dishwasher powders and liquids will pit and mark both the blade and the handle, and reduce the life and appearance of the knife.

- use the knife tip as a can opener; It will break the point off.

Repairs:

- A good quality silver polish and soft cloth will remove most discolouration's and store as above;

- an abrasive pad such as a green scourer will remove most light surface rust;

- Where there is severe rust and or discoloration, a buffing wheel will remove the stains and return the edge;

- Store as above;