Oil a knife’s moving parts or joints periodically to ensure its longevity. Avoid getting the blades wet as this will cause corrosion.

Wooden handles can be cared for with furniture polish or oil.

If your blade is made of carbon spring steel, use a solution of water and baking soda to clean it. If you have a stainless steel blade, use dish soap or water. Stainless steel is much more susceptible to fingerprints than carbon and therefore needs to be cared for regularly. Try not to touch the blade too much with your fingers. If you do, clean the razor after use. Fingerprints are very acidic and can leave permanent stains if left dirty over time.

When choosing an oil, WD-40 is a good option, but not the best. If you are lubricating the internal parts of a lockable razor, use 3 in one. Another good product for folding knives is Remingtons Dri-Lube. It goes on as a very thin coat, but it lasts longer than WD-40.

Never apply more than a few drops of oil to any folding knife. If you are working with a razor, apply oil and operate the folding mechanism at least fifteen times to get the oil into the joints.

Discoloration on stainless steel does not occur easily. Discoloration should be considered rust waiting to occur and should be cleaned up immediately. Rust is reddish-brown in color and will eat holes in the blade and contaminate whatever you cut. Cleaning, polishing and oiling help the performance, safety and longevity of your folding knife.

In short, taking care of your folding knife will ensure that your knife lasts from generation to generation.
Follow these simple cleaning and lubrication techniques and your small investment will be protected.

Five points to remember:

—Keep your knife dry

—Keep your knife clean

—Keep your knife oiled

—Keep your knife sharp

— Do not attempt to repair it yourself, this will void your warranty and may create an unsafe condition.