When summer hits, your knives go into overdrive—slicing fresh garden produce, carving up grilled meats, or prepping meals by the fire. But more use means more wear, and if you’re not careful, your go-to blade could end up dangerously dull.
Here’s how to keep your Cooking Guild knives performing like new all summer long—whether you’re grilling in the backyard or camping in the wild.
Why Sharp Knives Matter
A dull knife doesn’t just make prep harder—it’s actually more dangerous. You apply more pressure, which increases the chances of slipping and injuring yourself. Sharp knives give you more control, cleaner cuts, and faster prep. They’re a must for any outdoor or indoor kitchen.
Honing vs. Sharpening
Let’s clear up a common confusion:
-
Honing keeps your blade aligned. It doesn’t remove metal, just straightens the edge. Do it regularly—ideally once a week.
-
Sharpening reshapes the blade by grinding away metal. Only do this occasionally when honing no longer works.
Quick Knife Care Tips for Summer
-
Hone your knife weekly. A few swipes on a honing rod at a 15–20° angle is all it takes.
-
Hand wash and dry. No dishwashers. No soaking. Just a quick clean and towel dry.
-
Use the right cutting surface. Stick to wood or plastic—never glass or metal boards.
-
Store smart. Keep your knives in a sheath, magnetic strip, or block. Tossing them in a drawer will ruin the edge.
When to Sharpen
If your knife crushes tomatoes instead of slicing them, or slips off onions, it’s time to sharpen. You can use a whetstone or get them professionally sharpened. But most of the time, consistent honing will delay the need.
Keep Your Blades Summer-Ready
Here are two Cooking Guild essentials that will help keep your knives razor-sharp and adventure-ready all season long.
Nomad Series 10″ Honing Steel
Shop Now
A must-have tool for any cook who wants to preserve blade sharpness the easy way. This honing steel is crafted to realign your knife’s edge without removing metal, helping extend the life of your knives with every pass.
Specs:
-
10″ carbon steel rod
-
Ergonomic handle made from stabilized burl wood and deep-sea epoxy
-
Designed to gently realign knife edges for daily maintenance
-
Matches the signature rugged look of the Nomad Series
Keeping your knives sharp isn’t just about performance—it’s about safety, efficiency, and pride in your craft. Make a small investment in care now, and your blades will reward you meal after meal.
