Knives: Care and Maintenance

Knives have been around for a long time, these are an amazing tool that has no other substitute. Looking into history, we see that knives have been an essential tool for survival, as well as in the process of providing food and shelter to the user. The earliest form of the knife was developed through necessity, and we can trace the evolution of knives on the path of technology. It is observed that during the Stone Age, the knives were made of flint, which was easily scaled to shape, and it was re-scaled to give the knife a new edge. Then these flint knives were ground to reach the shape required. It was quite later in the history that the knives were made from copper, bronze, and then finally from iron, as it is today!

Knife Care

At SwordsSwords you will find many knives that can satisfy most of your desires or needs. All knife purchases are an important investment, with our high quality of bladed, and proper care and maintenance of the knives, they will last for a lifetime – or at least more than just a few years.

Sharpening

Do's and Don’ts

Never opt for the power-driven grinding wheel to sharpen your blade. This may burn the temper from the blade, makes it brittle, and cause chips and cracks.

Sharpening Stones are the Key!

To sharpen a flat and dull knife blade, the perfect way to do it is with a sharpening stone. Always use a wet stone to sharpen the blade. To do touchups of the blade use a grit stone. In case the blade is really dull, make use of a coarse grit stone and then use the fine grit stone.

Diamond Stone Sharpeners

The diamond stone sharpeners are made of metal or of a composite base. The outer layer of the stone is of micron-sized diamonds. There are some that have special surface holes that prevent filling build up. These stone are fast, effective and are available in different grits. You can either use it wet or dry, but we recommend that you use it wet. Use a water-based honing oil or simply use water.

Natural Sharpening Stones

The natural sharpening stones are usable as wet or dry, but using them wet is recommended. All three, water, water-based honing oil and petroleum-based honing oil, work best. However, do not take it lightly. Using oil on a natural stone is a full-time job. It is quite difficult to switch to water after you have used oil on the natural stone. Don’t get rigid with the honing fluid. You should use enough so that the pool is visible on the stone.

Knife Care Instructions

Always keep your knife in a dry place and out of its sheath. Use clean oil to wipe the blade at least two or three times a year, this helps prevent rusting of the blade. In case you are living in an area with salt-water or use the knife frequently, you will have to oil it more often.

1. Clean Regularly

Cleaning the knife includes the blade, pivot points, and the locking mechanisms. It is recommended that you avoid immersing your knife in liquid. However, if you do that, then make sure that you dry the knife later. To avoid sticky residues, surface oxidation, and rust, oil your knife regularly.

2. Discoloration

Discoloration of the blade means that your knife is oxidizing. If the metal turns to a shade of blue, grey or black, it means that your blade is oxidizing or about to rust. Stainless steel is not prone to discoloration. However, if you notice anything like that you should clean it up immediately. Discoloration is a common occurrence in non-stainless steel blades; hence, you should clean them regularly to avoid rusting.

3. Nip Rust

The rusting of the blade is of a reddish-brown color, this creates pits in your blade and contaminates whatever you cut. You can easily remove light rusting with oil. However, heavier rusts require an abrasive action.

4. Knife Cleaning

The rule of the thumb for a knife is to clean it up every time after you have used it. It should be cleaned and dried. Though the stainless steel blade is corrosion resistant, it can oxidize after some time. Keep your folding knives free from dirt, especially the locking mechanisms.

5. Cleaning Products

Always make sure that you clean, polish and lubricate your knife. This maintains the performance of the blade and makes it safer to use. You can use polish to avoid oxidation and rust. You can also use chemical solvents like nail polish removers, alcohol or paint thinner to clean the blade. However, keep in mind that these can damage the handles of some of the knives. Moreover, do not use harsh detergents that are full of chlorine as these can corrode the blade quite fast.

6. Lubrication

It is suggested that you apply a little amount of lubricant on the working parts of your knife, as well as a thin layer on the surface of the blade. You should lubricate your knife after cleaning. It is our suggestion that you use a wax lubricant, as this will lubricate, protect and seal the knife from oxidation and rust.