NORA Knives & Cutlery

For carbon steel knives, the blade will form a slight patina over time.  This is normal and is actually the mark of a beautifully used knife.  Please note, however, that a carbon knife does require more maintenance than its stainless steel counterpart, mainly that it must be washed or wiped clean shortly after each use to prevent unwanted rust or stains.  We usually acid etch our knives and create a dark finish to protect the steel and start the patina process.  Over time this etch will fade slightly and will be replaced by the individual patina you make while using the knife.   

Please note that the etch process does not always leave the knife completely uniform in finish and, as such, you may notice minor differences in tone of the etch color and also some residual marks which can almost look like a stain on the knife.  These are part of the etch itself and its part of what makes each knife unique.  

Please also note that the patina placed on the blade is an acid etch and, by its nature, it makes the steel somewhat coarse on a very fine level.  Because of this you may initially feel a certain amount of stickiness when cutting with the knife.  This is temporary and as the knife is used the blade will smooth and glide will improve.  Hopefully, you can bear through this break-in period but if you find yourself wanting to speed up the process you can take a Scotch Brite pad or the coarse end of a sponge to the blade which will help smooth the blade.  Doing this, however, will also remove some of the dark patina of the etch itself.  

NORA Knives & Cutlery disclaimer for knives with engraving:

The engraving was done via laser so there is depth to the engraving more so than you see with an electro etch. We do, however, keep the depth minimal so it does not catch food and minimally interferes with the primary cutting function of the knife. A small amount of sticking is normal around the engraved area.  This will lessen over time with use of the blade. Please note though, if performance is your #1 priority then we encourage you to NOT purchase this blade.  A blade with no engraving WILL have a smoother glide than a blade with engraving.  For most, however, this difference is so minimal that it is not even noticed.  We just like to provide a full disclosure up front so you know exactly what you are purchasing.

The engraving should last as long as the knife but please note that it will slightly degrade over time as abrasives are used on the knife. We recommend the soft end of a sponge with soap and water for cleaning and mineral oil periodically to condition the blade (and handle). Keep in mind that stronger abrasives, such as steel wool, scotch brite pads, sand paper or stone sharpening directly on the engraved image will further degrade the image.