I have recently been put in a situation that made me realize how little I know about maintaining my knives. I've just begun working in a kitchen that was well equiped, circa 1985, but hasn't been very well maintained since then. Every kitchen I've been in has always had a stone ready to use. This one has a stone, your standard, black-based tristone... but it's perfectly dry. The cooks that have been working there for years use it, just by sprinkling a little water on it and sharpening away. This seems to make things very dirty, and I'm pretty sure the stone should be oiled. Here's where the questions come in... How do I tell if a stone is diamond or oilstone? If I were to get oil for this stone, need it be oilstone oil, or is mineral oil sufficient? What do I make of the previously unfamiliar but recenlty observed practice of soaking a stone in water before sharpening? Anyone's guidance is appreciated... I really don't have the cash to go investing in my own sharpening system, and need to use what they've got at work. I would seek the guidance of my elders at work, but, experienced and proficient as they may otherwise be, these guys keep let their dexter russels fend for themselves in a stainless steel drawer and have been known to grab steak knives from the dining room for want of a pairing knife (and to tourne potatoes with it, nonetheless). I am, understandably, hesitant to seek their advice on the care and feed ing of my precious, expensive, Macs. Thanks so much.
peace,
P
peace,
P
