Folding knives offer discretion and convenience, and some modern folders are made with locks that will stand strong under hundreds of pounds of pressure, challenging preexisting notions that folders are “pre-broken”.
All the same, if you carry a folding knife daily, you should know how to properly care for it, as well as what not to do with it. This post is your primer if you’re not there yet.
Folding Knife Maintenance
Here are some high level notes for how to care for folding knives:
- Always clean and dry the blade before use. Even a folding knife with a stainless steel blade should not be put away wet, as on top of the fact that this can cause the blade to rust, it will introduce moisture to the interior of the knife.
- While not all steel alloys need it, it is a good idea if you treat the blade with a drop of oil, such as tsubaki oil, before you store it for a prolonged period of time.
- Periodically clean out the space between the knife scales.
- Periodically clean the space around the pivot mechanism. This area has a habit of accumulating dust and other debris and will result in a gritty knife if it is not kept clean. You can use compressed air for this if possible as the introduction of oil will actually attract more dust and debris. If you can get it clean with compressed air, try using a toothpick to dislodge debris.
- Every once in a while, check all hardware, including the screw that secures the blade/pivot mechanism, and make sure they are tight.
- At least once per year, completely disassemble and clean the knife, inside and out.
- Keep your knife sharp. A sharp knife is a safe knife and will cut with less effort from you.
What You Should Never Use Them for
Now let’s take a closer look at some things you should definitely not do with your folding knives if you want them to last.
- Never baton with a folding knife, as this is nearly guaranteed to break the lock.
- Never throw your folding knives as this will not only strain the lock and likely break it, it is liable to break the blade as well.
- Do not pry with a folding knife, or any knife. It will damage or break the lock or break off the tip of the knife. Try to avoid twisting with the knife as well.
- Avoid using your folding knife in a marine environment if possible.
- Do not submerge the entire knife in water if possible, as this can cause rust to the interior.
- Avoid exposing your folding knife to extreme heat as this can damage the temper of the blade. For instance, do not use your knife as a poker in a fire.
- Don’t fail to adhere to routine maintenance as outlined in this article.
- Don’t forget to sharpen your knife periodically, as a sharp knife will require less effort to use and will prove safer.
- Don’t store your folding knives in a location where they will be exposed to chronic high humidity and big temperature swings. The former can cause rust and corrosion.
Shop Folding Knives at River’s Edge Cutlery
Looking for some new folding knives for your collection? Check out what’s in store at River’s Edge Cutlery. They carry a wide range of folders (and fixed blades) from the top brands in the industry, and they offer top-tier service. Check out their website via the previous link and get in touch with them if you have any questions.
For more information about Demko Knives and Hinderer Knives Please visit: River’s Edge Cutlery.
