Read below for more information on our knives and commonly asked questions
Q: Is each knife handmade and individually crafted?
All of our knives are made one at a time. Our blades are handmade and forged through a careful, step-by-step process, and each handle is made using natural wood. As with any other artisan product, no two will be identical. Every element is unique and even the standard dimensions may vary slightly in each knife (weight, length, etc).
Q: Can I use your knives every day?
Yes, Route83 knives have been designed to be used daily and to make every aspect of chopping and cutting easier.
Q: What steel is used for Route83 knives and how are they different?
Route83 uses German steel or Damascus steel depending on the line of blades. The blade shape and manufacturing techniques are almost identical – only the material varies.
German steel is used in the Classic Knife Range and is highly durable. Damascus steel is used in the Signature Knife Range and features the stunning waves formed by layering steel. Damascus steel is harder than German steel. Though harder steel has a finer cutting edge, harder is not always better. An axe (or our cleaver) uses softer steel than our Damascus steel but it can put up with more intense use.
Q: Does Damascus steel need special care?
Our Damascus knives are clad with stainless steel (layers of 18/10 and 18/0) making them easy to care for. Treat them the same as any other high quality kitchen knife. Other manufactures use “high carbon” steel which will rust and discolour if not oiled after every use.
Q: Should I buy German Steel or Damascus steel?
All of our knives are made to the same high standard. If cared for properly, they should last a lifetime. We have tested our knives extensively and we are confident that you will be happy with your purchase. If you are not completely satisfied, you can return your knife within 30 days.
Q: Why does my knife look different than the knives pictured on the Route83 website?
Each knife is hand made, hand hammered, and hand crafted. The hammer marks on each knife are unique. We use only natural wood handles which are also unique. No two handles are identical since different parts of the tree yield different grain patterns.
Q: What kind of wood is used for the handles?
We only use natural wood handles which have been lightly finished with an oil and vinegar blend. They are never treated with harsh chemicals. No two pieces of wood are identical.
Q: Why do other manufacturers wood handles look identical?
Other manufacturers use wood products such as pakka wood. Pakka wood is a manufactured product made from resin and chemicals that can emit harmful substances such as formaldehyde. Route 83 uses only natural wood for all knife handles.
Q: HOW DO I CARE FOR MY KNIFE?
As with any lifetime investment, it is essential to take the best care possible of your knives to prolong their life.
STORE
Always store your knives in their original boxes so as to protect the blades and handles.
MAINTAIN
Although the wood used has been stablized, like all wood, will tend to shrink in very arid condition and swell in very humid conditions.
The handle color may change slightly over time due to oils in your hand and wood oxidation.
Protect wood handles by lightly applying a mixture of 50% olive oil and 50% vinegar to the handles. Rub this mixture in well and gently wipe off any excess with a soft dry cloth.
CLEAN
Avoid highly chlorinated or ferruginous water as these may leave small spots of rust on the knives. Do not use abrasive of citrus-based dishwashing powders or liquids as these may damage the knives. Do not use scouring pads, steel or gritty cleanser.
Some foods such as mustard and eggs can corrode the steel and cause spotting. Always rinse knives as soon as possible after use and remove stains with a rag dipped in a baking soda and water mix.
Organic Handles
Route83 knives with wood and antler handles are not dishwasher safe, instead should be hand-washed using warm water and a mild liquid soap. Rinse off in hot water and dry the knives immediately using a soft dry cloth. So that no soap residues are left on the blade.
ABS Handles
Route83 knives with ABS handles are dishwasher safe, however must never be washed on the intensive and pot cycle (hottest) of the dishwasher. Rinse all food residues off the knives before placing the knife into the dishwasher.
Q: HOW DO USE MY KNIFE?
Always pay attention to the position of your fingers in relation to the knife. Your skill and experience should determine the speed at which you cut.
Upon first use of your Route83 knife, slow down and enjoy the effortless cutting/chopping ability of your knife.
Knives are intended to be used for cutting purposes only – not for stabbing or piercing.
The cutting surface you use contributes to keeping your knives sharp. A good cutting board will help retain a sharp edge for longer. Soft woods are preferred. Tile, ceramic, marble, granite, glass cutting boards are not recommended as the can damage the blade of your knife.
If you have any further questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us!