Care instructions for Damascus and other knives 

Following these guidelines will help maintain your knives, including Damascus steel blades, and ensure their longevity and performance. Failure to adhere to proper care and maintenance practices, as outlined here, may void your warranty.

General care for all knives.

• Hand wash immediately after use: Use warm, soapy water and a soft sponge or cloth.

• Avoid the dishwasher: Harsh detergents and high temperatures can damage the blade and handle.

• Dry immediately and thoroughly: Water spots and rust can form if left to air dry or soak.

• Store properly: Use a knife block, magnetic strip, or sheaths to prevent damage and dulling.

• Keep knives sharp: Dull knives are dangerous, requiring more force and increasing the risk of accidents.

• Use the right cutting surface: Wooden or plastic cutting boards are recommended. Avoid hard surfaces like glass, stone, or metal.

• Use the knife for its intended purpose: Avoid prying, twisting, cutting through bones or frozen foods, as this can damage the blade.

• Handle with care: Use a proper grip, cut away from your body, and avoid distractions. 

Specific care for Damascus steel blades 

Damascus steel needs extra attention: The layered steel composition, particularly in high-carbon Damascus, makes it more susceptible to corrosion than some stainless steels.

• Cleaning and drying: Wipe the blade with a soft cloth after use to remove moisture and acidic residues (like from fruits or meat), then dry thoroughly.

• Lubricate: Apply a light coat of food-grade mineral oil, specialized knife oil, or Renaissance Wax (for storage) to protect the blade and maintain the etched pattern.

• Avoid harsh cleaning methods: Do not use abrasive materials like steel wool or harsh chemicals, which can damage the etched pattern and potentially void the warranty.

• Be mindful of usage: Avoid using Damascus knives on acidic foods, in wet or humid environments for extended periods, or for tasks that could damage the pattern or blade.

• Failure to follow these knife care and maintenance instructions, including proper cleaning, drying, storage, and usage, may be considered misuse or neglect and could void your product warranty. Damage caused by improper care, misuse, neglect, modifications, or accidents, as defined by the warranty terms is not covered.

Limited Lifetime Warranty

At Bad Chads Forge, I take pride in the quality and craftsmanship of my edged weapons.  I offer a limited lifetime guarantee against defects in materials and workmanship.

• What’s Covered: Manufacturing flaws like blade defects or handle failures.

• What’s Not Covered: Normal wear and tear, misuse (like using your edged weapon as a screwdriver or pry bar), neglect, or modifications by anyone other than the maker. These will void the warranty.

• Repairs or Replacements: If your edged weapon has a covered issue, the maker will repair or replace it per their discretion.

Claims Procedure 

For warranty, return, or damage claims, contact the Chad Thompson in writing through the website or email.  Include proof of purchase, photos, and a description of the problem.  I will respond within 14 business day with next steps.  Phone (505)389-8756

• If a return or repair is approved, you must package and send the edged weapon to the address given by the Seller.  The Seller decides whether to repair, replace, or refund based on their inspection and is not responsible for knives lost or damaged in transit during the claims process.