Question

How do I polish a high carbon knife left in the dishwasher? It was an accident. I know how to take care of carbon knives. 150 grit sandpaper is with 1/4 sheet electric sander is taking forever. Should I use a lower grit? Or just throw it out.

Answer 1

If you accidentally ran a high carbon knife through the dishwasher and it now requires polishing, here are some steps you can take:

1. Assess the damage: Determine the extent of the damage to the knife. If there are minor stains or discoloration, it may be possible to restore the knife's appearance. However, if there is significant pitting or corrosion, the damage may be too severe to repair.

2. Start with a lower grit sandpaper: Since you've already tried using 150 grit sandpaper and it's taking a long time, you can switch to a lower grit sandpaper to remove the initial layers of damage more efficiently. Try starting with 80 or 120 grit sandpaper to speed up the process. Remember to be cautious and apply light pressure to avoid removing excessive amounts of material from the knife.

3. Progress to higher grits: After using the lower grit sandpaper, gradually move to higher grits, such as 220, 400, and 600. This will help refine the surface and remove scratches left by the lower grits. Use each grit until the previous scratches are no longer visible.

4. Polish the knife: Once you've reached a higher grit sandpaper and the scratches are minimal, you can proceed to polish the knife. You can use a metal polishing compound or a fine abrasive compound specifically designed for knife polishing. Apply the compound to a soft cloth or buffing wheel and gently polish the blade until you achieve the desired shine.

5. Clean and dry the knife: After polishing, thoroughly clean the knife to remove any residue from the polishing compound. Dry it completely to prevent moisture buildup and potential rusting.

6. Assess the knife's performance: After polishing, test the knife's cutting performance and overall functionality. If it still meets your expectations and performs well, you can continue using it. However, if the damage has compromised the knife's integrity or it no longer meets your needs, it may be time to consider replacing it.

Remember, high carbon knives require proper care to maintain their performance and prevent corrosion. To avoid future issues, it's essential to hand wash and thoroughly dry high carbon knives immediately after use, rather than using a dishwasher.

If you're uncertain about the process or the condition of your knife, it's advisable to seek assistance from a professional knife sharpener or a specialized knife store for further guidance.