brass knife handle discoloration

[ofdc]

I have an old Schrade knife in a leather case, the brass has developed a green mold? What is this, how do I prevent it & how do I get it off my knife? The leather case seems to have the green mold also. Please help

 

[cwknifeman]

The green is tarnish or oxidation. Use some brass or chrome [polish on it and when not in use leave it out of the leather it only enhances the oxidation process, (due to the acids in the leather tanning process).

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Curtis Wilson -
Wilson's Custom Knives, Engraving, and Scrimshaw

 

[Osbourn]

I'd use a rasp to get it out of the sheath, but be gentle with it, you can remove a lot of material fast. Once you've used the polish that Curtis mentioned, there may be some pitting. The green oxidization is the copper-based equivalent of rust. Just sand it down using high grit sandpaper or a scotch-brite pad, and repolish. Oil the sheath to prevent it in future, and if you're going to store it, store it wrapped in a oiled cloth for long term, since that oil in the sheath will only hold it off for short term.

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Oz

"When your work speaks for itself, don't interrupt."
- Henry J. Kaiser