Captain Hook has become one of our iconic products. Why ? Because he is good. Because we have been testing it for a long time in many pottery workshops and we know how it performs. Many processes were involved in its creation. The whole hardening process itself takes about 10 hours.
It is made of hardened steel with very high hardness after quenching. After hardening, this steel also becomes stainless. The blades are blacksmith work and may vary slightly in shape. However, they all retain the same profile, size and application. We do not use presses or other automated processes.
The tool is sharp, which may cause chattering during use. This effect occurs when the sharp edge cuts deeply into the clay, creating vibrations. To minimize this, use both hands to stabilize the tool. For best results, trim in such a way that the trimmings are no thicker than 2 mm and of even thickness.
Very important notes regarding operation:
- The blade is factory (workshop – because we don’t have a factory) very sharp, be careful not to cut yourself.
- The blade has a very high hardness and therefore remains sharp for a long time, but it is also brittle due to its hardness – dropping the blade may result in breakage.
- Be careful when covering chamotte forms. If you have a lot of fireclay at work, or a lot of fireclay with a large grain diameter, throw it slowly. At high RPMs, large pieces of chamotte act like mini “hammers” and can damage the blade.
- Maintain your tool by using oil on both the handle and blade. After washing, dry the tool well. Use oil for impregnation. Make tool impregnation (all your tools) a routine in your workshop – it’s a good habit.
- The tool can be sharpened if necessary – we recommend using small-grain diamond files (600). You can use a Dremel if you have experience.
