Pocket Knives - Folding Blade

	World War II USMC Anniversary Knife H-4874-M zix		6	$5.50	15m
	STAINLESS STEEL CAMPING KNIFE 11 FUNCTIONS [KC68]			$15.99	16m
	MAXAM TACTICAL SERRATED, FOLDING KNIFE			$10.00	16m
	VINTAGE RAPALA J MARTTIINI FINLAND FILLET KNIFE FISHING		1	$0.99	16m
	MAXAM---BEAUTIFUL--SOLID STAINLESS STEEL---#SKBT1---NEW		-	$3.99	16m
	Tactical Rescue Speed Open Knife S.W.A.T. Z-30 zix		7	$5.50	17m
	Boker Tree Brand Olde Stag Pocket Knife (70485)		9	$22.50	17m
	POCKET KNIFE CRKT EDGIE SELF SHARPENING KNIFE CR6442			$28.49	17m
	New No-Brand Full Stainless Steel Folding Knife F99		-	$3.99	18m

Whether your folding pocket knives are part of a collection or for everyday use, they require the same care and maintenance to keep them in top condition.

Moisture, either water or oil from your fingerprints, is the number one cause of rust and stains on knife blades. All blades should be kept dry, and all fingerprints wiped off after every use. Soft cotton and chamois cloths are best since they will not scratch or otherwise harm the blade.

Contrary to popular belief, stainless steel is not rust proof, only more resistant to rust and stains than carbon steel blades. Carbon blades will naturally tarnish (a dulling of the surface caused by a chemical reaction) but this can be avoided with a little preventative maintenance. The simplest protection is to treat the blade with a light layer of a high quality oil or silicone treatment. Rubbing the oil onto the blade creates a protective layer that prevents the metal from tarnishing. Wax can also be used as the protective layer, but should be of good quality and rubbed on with a soft cotton cloth until the blade appears to be polished.

With or without these precautions, you folding pocket knives should be inspected regularly for stains or discoloration. Stains should be removed immediately using a metal polish or cleaner.

The folding mechanism of the knife needs to be kept both clean and free of debris in order to maintain smooth operation. Apply an occasionally drop of light oil, and work it into the mechanism by opening and closing the knife a few times. A properly functioning folding pocket knife should smoothly click open, and snap shut.

The leather sheath that straps onto your belt is great for carrying your pocket knife, but should not be used for storage. Not only will the leather absorb moisture that can be transferred to your knives blade, but the residual chemicals in the leather (tanning acids and salts) will also promote rust and tarnish. Although stored separately, your leather sheath should also be kept soft and flexible by occasionally rubbing it with mink oil.

If your knife is intended for everyday use, remember to keep it sharp. Sharp knives are safer since they require minimal effort while cutting. Regardless of how you sharpen your knife (sharpening steel or stone) it is easier to maintain the edge if it is sharpened often.

Never sharpen a folding knife blade using a high speed grinding wheel (typically found in many home shops). These will build up a tremendous amount of heat which can literally burn the temper off of the blade leaving it brittle and weakened.

Finally, if you carry you knife in your pocket, put nothing else in that pocket. Carrying it along side your car keys and loose change will scratch and damage the handle. This is also true if you store your collection all together in a box. All scratches and external damage will reduce the value of your knife.

Knowing how to properly care for your folding pocket knife will keep it in top condition for years to come.