KNIFE CARE

1. Clean and oil your knives after each use. 80CrV2 and 1095 steel can be prone to rust if not properly cared for, but a simple wipe-down with a clean cloth to remove dirt, followed by a light coat of oil, will go a long way toward keeping your knives looking new. WD-40, 3-in-One Oil, or even cooking oil will work.

2. Throw into separate targets. The fastest way to ruin a knife is to hit it with another knife, and this is even more important when throwing knives with handles. I highly recommend an IKTHOF-style three-target setup, but if space is limited, adding three bullseyes to one board is best. Throwing in a grouping might look cool, but hitting three distinct targets is a true test of skill and accuracy.

3. Throw over gravel, grass, or wood chips, and avoid concrete and asphalt. If you must throw over hard surfaces, I recommend laying down a sheet of plywood, foam floor pads, thick carpeting, or even cardboard to help prevent damage.

4. Carry a fine bastard file to remove nicks and burrs and help prevent cuts to your hands.