Looking after your Global knife is very important, as improper care can severely damage your knife. Stamped Global blades have edges that are razor sharp. To obtain such sharp edges, they are factory sharpened at an angle between 10 and 15 degrees. Sharpening at this angle results in a thinner edge, so some words of caution are necessary.
On this page, you will find the information required to care for your knife effectively, including how to sharpen it using the variety of methods recommended, how to clean it correctly and how to store it safely.
Global knives come out of the factory in Japan with a very sharp edge and CROMOVA 18, Globals unique blade material, ensures that this sharpness will be maintained longer than most other knives. However, Global knives need to be sharpened from time to time to maintain their keen edge. As a general rule, the best sharpening tool for an individual is one that he or she is going to use. Each tool is different and maybe easy or difficult to use depending on the individual and their level of experience or skill.
Global recommends periodically sharpening your knives using either a waterstone or ceramic stone. In between stone sharpenings, it is recommended that you use the Global fine ceramic or diamond rod to keep the edges of your knives aligned. (Global serrated knives do not need to be sharpened)
There are various types of waterstones & ceramic stones available and normally a medium grit stone is sufficient to start with. However, if the blade is blunt or damaged, it may be necessary to start with the rough grit. There are several differences between waterstones and ceramic stones. A waterstone must be placed in water and allowed to soak for 10-15 minutes to allow it to absorb sufficient moisture. A ceramic stone also requires water, but only needs to soak in water for 3-5 minutes. A ceramic stone is harder than a waterstone, so it will sharpen your knives more quickly. A ceramic stone will last longer and will not develop valleys or grooves as easily as a waterstone.
Regardless of the size or type of stone, you are using, the procedures for sharpening are as follows:
NOTE Achieving the correct angle is sometimes difficult, particular for beginners. Most Global stockists will carry a product called "MinoSharp Sharpening Guide Rails" which help to achieve the correct angle when using waterstones and ceramic stones.
It is recommended that you wash your Global knives by hand using a mild dishwashing liquid and water. After washing, rinse with water and dry thoroughly with a towel. Global knives should NOT be put in the dishwasher. Doing so could damage the sharp edges should they come into contact with other objects in the dishwasher. In addition, exposure to extreme heat and powerful detergents found in dishwashers can be harmful to CROMOVA 18 high carbon stainless steel.
If your knife is not stored or cleaned correctly, you may find that rust can start to develop on it. General household stainless steel cleaners are available on the market, and any of these can be used to remove rust from your stainless steel. Alternatively, Global also has a magic rubber, which can remove small rust spots.
Global knives are very sharp and should be carefully stored to avoid accidents and kept out of the reach of small children. Global recommends the use of the Global knife blocks, magnetic wall racks, knife docks, blade guards or knife rolls/cases. A variety of different solutions are offered by Global to help keep your knives safe and in good condition.
