White bone and Damascus: separate routines
This knife combines two materials that age in different ways, so each gets its own routine:
- Damascus: wipe the 12.5 cm blade dry after every use and leave a thin film of oil on it; the darker layers can spot if left damp.
- White bone: wash by hand with mild soap and a soft brush, never soak it, and dry it at once; bone is porous and can stain.
- Brass fittings: a soft cloth restores the shine, with any polish kept off the bone.
- Storage: keep the knife out of its leather case for long periods.
Looked after this way, Damascus knives from Pakistan with natural handles mellow rather than wear out.
