cleaning advise for old timers

[pa knifeguy]

I need some help cleaning the handles on a couple of Old Timers.
I have an 8OT and a trapper that have developed a white waxy substance on the delrin. Not sure how to clean it off. Any suggestions would be appreciated.
Thanks,
Skip Fryling,
The Pa knifeguy

 

[JHouston]

I need some help cleaning the handles on a couple of Old Timers.
I have an 8OT and a trapper that have developed a white waxy substance on the delrin. Not sure how to clean it off. Any suggestions would be appreciated.
Thanks,
Skip Fryling,
The Pa knifeguy

I think that white waxy substance IS wax. I remember seeing a tour of one of the plant many ears ago and they waxed the handle with carnuba (a common car wax). This happens to a lot of knives, particularly "saw cut" handles.

The two methods I've tried:
1. Dishwashing liquid and a soft bristle tooth brush will take out the old wax. Will leave the handle without any sheen.
2. A little fresh carnuba will put the oil back in and take away the powery look. Apply gently with a soft toothbrush and buff with a SLOW wheel. (a fast wheel can "burn" or wear down the handle material so be careful.) This will give it a sheen like new.

 

[El Lobo]

I've used WD40. Let it sit just a couple of minutes, like you would with light rust. Then wipe it down with a lintless cloth, and buff a bit with a chamois if you've got one. Leave it dull and grippy.... or wax with car wax, neutral shoe polish, or Renaissance wax, if you like that look and feel.

This is NOT what I do for bone, stag, or pearl. Just Delrin or other composites.

Bill