Knives are more than just tools—they’re extensions of the hand, designed to assist in everything from precise culinary tasks to rugged outdoor adventures. Among the growing field of folding knives, the CJRB Prado stands out for its blend of aesthetics, functionality, and reliability. For anyone who relies on their knife, whether as an everyday carry (EDC) essential or a go-to workhorse in specific applications, maintaining a sharp, durable edge is critical. At Sharp On Sight, located in Sun Prairie, WI, we understand the importance of a properly sharpened blade and take pride in offering expert services to ensure your tools are at their best.

This blog will explore the features of the CJRB Prado, delve into the importance of professional knife sharpening, and provide insights into how to maximize the performance of your knives.

The CJRB Prado: A Practical Yet Elegant Choice

The CJRB Prado is a folding knife designed to excel in both urban and outdoor environments. Known for its sleek lines and ergonomic handle, it offers users a reliable and durable cutting tool. Key features that make the Prado stand out include:

1. Blade Material
   The blade is made from AR-RPM9 steel, a proprietary powdered steel that offers excellent edge retention, corrosion resistance, and toughness. Its composition makes it ideal for users who demand longevity and reliability from their knives.
2. Ergonomic Handle
   The Prado’s handle is designed for comfort and grip. With G10 scales, it provides a textured surface that remains secure in wet or dry conditions. The handle’s design ensures fatigue-free use, even during extended cutting sessions.
3. Deployment and Locking Mechanism
   Equipped with a smooth ball-bearing pivot system, the Prado’s blade deploys effortlessly, ensuring reliability when it matters most. The liner lock provides a secure and dependable locking mechanism, giving users confidence during heavy use.
4. Blade Geometry
   The Prado’s drop-point blade shape balances durability and versatility. Its edge geometry allows for precision tasks, like slicing and cutting, while still being robust enough for tougher applications.

The Importance of a Sharp Edge

Even the most well-designed knife loses its edge over time. Regular use leads to dulling, which not only diminishes cutting performance but also increases the risk of accidents. A dull blade requires more force to cut, leading to slips and potential injuries. That’s where professional knife sharpening comes in.

Why Professional Sharpening Matters

While at-home sharpening tools are available, achieving a truly razor-sharp edge requires skill, experience, and the right equipment. Professional sharpening services like ours ensure that your knife is restored to its optimal condition. Here’s how:

• Consistency: Maintaining a consistent sharpening angle across the entire edge is key to performance. Professionals use precision-guided systems to achieve this level of accuracy.
• Steel Knowledge: Different steels require different sharpening approaches. For instance, AR-RPM9 steel, like that in the Prado, performs best when sharpened at a specific angle to preserve edge retention.
• Finishing Touches: Beyond sharpening, stropping and polishing smooth out micro-serrations and refine the edge for maximum sharpness.

Maximizing the Performance of Your Knives

Once your knife is sharpened, maintaining its edge becomes the next priority. Here are a few tips to ensure your blade stays sharp and functional between professional sharpening sessions:

1. Use a Leather Strop
   Stropping is an effective way to maintain a knife’s edge. It helps align the micro-serrations at the apex, keeping the blade sharp without removing too much material. A leather strop with a bit of honing compound is perfect for regular maintenance.
2. Choose the Right Cutting Surface
   Hard surfaces like ceramic plates or glass cutting boards can quickly dull a knife. Opt for softer materials like wood or plastic cutting boards to preserve your edge.
3. Hone with a Ceramic Rod
   A ceramic honing rod is harder than most steels, making it an excellent tool for realigning your knife’s edge. Unlike traditional honing steels, ceramic rods can handle modern high-hardness blade steels like AR-RPM9.
4. Store Your Knives Properly
   Improper storage can lead to dulling and edge damage. Store knives in a knife block, on a magnetic strip, or in blade guards to protect the edge.
5. Avoid Abuse
   Knives are cutting tools, not pry bars or screwdrivers. Using a knife for unintended purposes can chip or damage the edge, requiring extensive repairs.

Our Approach to Knife Sharpening

At Sharp On Sight, we take a tailored approach to sharpening, understanding that no two knives are alike. Here’s how we ensure your knives are sharpened to perfection:

1. Assessment
   Every knife is inspected to evaluate its condition, steel type, and intended use. This initial assessment guides the sharpening process.
2. Sharpening Angles
   We determine the ideal sharpening angle for your knife based on its purpose. For example, a thinner edge may be ideal for precision slicing, while a steeper angle provides durability for heavy-duty tasks.
3. Cut Test Comparison
   We compare the factory edge with our recommended sharpening angle using sisal rope cut tests. This demonstrates the improved performance and longevity of a professionally sharpened edge.
4. Finishing and Maintenance
   After sharpening, we finish each blade with a leather strop to refine the edge. We also provide tips to help you maintain your knife’s performance between sharpening sessions.

Why Choose Sharp On Sight in Sun Prairie, WI?

Based just north of Madison, Sharp On Sight is a local sharpening service dedicated to quality and precision. We understand the needs of knife enthusiasts, professionals, and everyday users alike. Here’s what sets us apart:

• Expert Knowledge: With years of experience in sharpening and knife maintenance, we offer insights into everything from steel composition to advanced sharpening techniques.
• Tailored Service: Whether you’re an EDC enthusiast, a chef, or a hunter, we provide customized sharpening solutions that match your specific needs.
• Cut-Tested Results: We go beyond sharpening to ensure your blade is ready for real-world use. Our cut tests demonstrate the improved performance of every edge we sharpen.
• Convenience: Located in Sun Prairie, we’re easily accessible to knife owners in the Madison area.

The CJRB Prado: A Perfect Candidate for Professional Sharpening

The CJRB Prado is an excellent example of a knife that benefits from professional sharpening. Its AR-RPM9 steel can be refined to a razor-sharp edge, providing exceptional performance for both everyday and heavy-duty tasks. Whether you use it for opening packages, cutting rope, or carving wood, a professionally sharpened Prado ensures you’re always prepared.

Closing Thoughts

Knives are tools that deserve proper care and maintenance. Whether you own a CJRB Prado or another blade, investing in professional sharpening services can make a world of difference. At Sharp On Sight, we take pride in helping our clients get the most out of their knives.

A sharp knife is safer, more efficient, and far more satisfying to use. Don’t settle for a dull edge—contact us today to learn how we can enhance your blades and elevate your cutting experience.