Cleaning sand out of a pocket knife?

Joined
Aug 19, 2009
Messages
5
a few weeks ago i went to the beach and i had a feeling we would at least one knife around, so i brought one of my favorite pocket knives. The spyderco half serrated police knife. i used it a few times, but the rest of the time i just kept it in my pocket which was a bad idea cuz i messed around in the sand. So when i got home and opened my knife to clean it off a little, i found out that a bunch of sand got stuck in its crevices. i got most of it out, but there is still a good amount in the hing and locking mechanism. So i was just wondering, does someone know a good way to clean all the sand out of it??

oh yah also this knife attracts lots of fingerprints, so i was also wondering if someone knows a way to reduce the amount that get on it??


pic of knife:
SpydercoPolice1a.jpg
 
Welcome to Bladeforums! Try brake or carb cleaner, blow dry with compressed air, then rinse in rubbing alchohol. Blow dry again, then oil.
 
Welcome. You've got two good answers. The third would be to take it apart and clean all the parts and reassemble.

One tip: I wouldn't suggest using WD40. When it dries, it leaves a waxy residue.

EDIT: I just noticed it was a Police. I'd stick with Rat or michdad's suggestions.
 
WD 40 does not leave a waxy residue. I use in all the time in my cutlery restoration and knife making.
 
Soapy water with repeated openings has always done the trick for me. After it dries, I add some 3-in-one, open and close repeatedly to work it in, and if it's still acting up, repeat the whole process all over again.
 
WD-40 is wax based and when the solvent flashes off it will leave a waxy/varnish type residue that will become hard over time and will severly affect the functioning of the knife.
 
Welcome. You've got two good answers. The third would be to take it apart and clean all the parts and reassemble.

One tip: I wouldn't suggest using WD40. When it dries, it leaves a waxy residue.

EDIT: I just noticed it was a Police. I'd stick with Rat or michdad's suggestions.

It leaves a light layer of oil, that will over time become saturated with grim and gunk like all liquid lubricants.

I would do the soapy water bit, then blow it out with some compressed air to dry.
 
WD-40 is wax based and when the solvent flashes off it will leave a waxy/varnish type residue that will become hard over time and will severly affect the functioning of the knife.

This just like people claiming it's based off of fish oil and is completely harmlesS? :rolleyes:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/WD-40

50%: Stoddard solvent (i.e., mineral spirits -- primarily hexane, somewhat similar to kerosene)
25%: Liquefied petroleum gas (presumably as a propellant; carbon dioxide is now used instead to reduce WD-40's considerable flammability)
15+%: Mineral oil (light lubricating oil)
10-%: Inert ingredients

No wax there.
 
It's interesting, Josh- I can do something for 40 years, and come here and find out I'm doing it all wrong!
;)
 
Go to the local music store and pick up some valve oil for brass instruments. It's a high-penetration low-evaporation oil intended for air-tight tolerance piston or rotary valves in trumpets, French horns (which I play :) ), euphoniums, etc. It does a great job of working quickly into the joints and pushing dirt and grime out or the knife.

I've loosened up knives that were rusted up and buried in the sand on the beach using it. It's only around $5 a bottle and a little goes a long way. I'm only just now getting to the end of the bottle I bought six years ago! :eek:
 
This just like people claiming it's based off of fish oil and is completely harmlesS? :rolleyes:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/WD-40

50%: Stoddard solvent (i.e., mineral spirits -- primarily hexane, somewhat similar to kerosene)
25%: Liquefied petroleum gas (presumably as a propellant; carbon dioxide is now used instead to reduce WD-40's considerable flammability)
15+%: Mineral oil (light lubricating oil)
10-%: Inert ingredients

No wax there.

Check again

64742-65-0, Petroleum distillates, solvent dewaxed heavy paraffin- though it has been 'dewaxed' as the solvent flashes off it will become very viscous and leave a 'waxy' residue that will quickly attract unwanted debris.

Here's some reading material for you- WD-40 corp. provided MSDS

http://www.wd40company.com/files/pdf/msds-wd494716385.pdf
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Material Safety Data Sheet
1 - Chemical Product and Company Identification
Manufacturer: WD-40 Company
Address: 1061 Cudahy Place (92110)
P.O. Box 80607
San Diego, California, USA
92138 –0607
Telephone:
Emergency only: 1-888-324-7596 (PROSAR)
Information: 1-888-324-7596
Chemical Spills: 1-800-424-9300 (Chemtrec)
1-703-527-3887 (International Calls)
Chemical Name: Organic Mixture
Trade Name: WD-40 Aerosol
Product Use: Cleaner, Lubricant
MSDS Date Of Preparation: 8/05/09
2 – Hazards Identification
Emergency Overview:
DANGER! Flammable aerosol. Contents under pressure. Harmful or fatal if swallowed. If swallowed, may be aspirated and cause lung damage. May cause eye irritation. Avoid eye contact. Use with adequate ventilation. Keep away from heat, sparks and all other sources of ignition.
Symptoms of Overexposure:
Inhalation: High concentrations may cause nasal and respiratory irritation and central nervous system effects such as headache, dizziness and nausea. Intentional abuse may be harmful or fatal.
Skin Contact: Prolonged and/or repeated contact may produce mild irritation and defatting with possible dermatitis.
Eye Contact: Contact may be irritating to eyes. May cause redness and tearing.
Ingestion: This product has low oral toxicity. Swallowing may cause gastrointestinal irritation, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. This product is an aspiration hazard. If swallowed, can enter the lungs and may cause chemical pneumonitis, severe lung damage and death.
Chronic Effects: None expected.
Medical Conditions Aggravated by Exposure: Preexisting eye, skin and respiratory conditions may be aggravated by exposure.
Suspected Cancer Agent:
Yes No X
3 - Composition/Information on Ingredients
Ingredient
CAS #
Weight Percent
Aliphatic Hydrocarbon
64742-47-8
64742-48-9
64742-88-7
45-50
Petroleum Base Oil
64742-65-0 >25
LVP Aliphatic Hydrocarbon
64742-47-8
12-18
Carbon Dioxide
124-38-9
2-3
Surfactant
Proprietary
<2
Non-Hazardous Ingredients
Mixture
<10
4 – First Aid Measures
Ingestion (Swallowed): Aspiration Hazard. DO NOT induce vomiting. Call physician, poison control center or the WD-40 Safety Hotline at 1-888-324-7596 immediately.
Eye Contact: Flush thoroughly with water. Remove contact lenses if present after the first 5 minutes and continue flushing for several more minutes. Get medical attention if irritation persists.
Skin Contact: Wash with soap and water. If irritation develops and persists, get medical attention.
Page 2 of 4
Inhalation (Breathing): If irritation is experienced, move to fresh air. Get medical attention if irritation or other symptoms develop and persist.
5 – Fire Fighting Measures
Extinguishing Media: Use water fog, dry chemical, carbon dioxide or foam. Do not use water jet or flooding amounts of water. Burning product will float on the surface and spread fire.
Special Fire Fighting Procedures: Firefighters should always wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus and full protective clothing. Cool fire-exposed containers with water. Use shielding to protect against bursting containers.
Unusual Fire and Explosion Hazards: Contents under pressure. Keep away from ignition sources and open flames. Exposure of containers to extreme heat and flames can cause them to rupture often with violent force. Vapors are heavier than air and may travel along surfaces to remote ignition sources and flash back.
6 – Accidental Release Measures
Wear appropriate protective clothing (see Section 8). Eliminate all sources of ignition and ventilate area. Leaking cans should be placed in a plastic bag or open pail until the pressure has dissipated. Contain and collect liquid with an inert absorbent and place in a container for disposal. Clean spill area thoroughly. Report spills to authorities as required.
7 – Handling and Storage
Handling: Avoid contact with eyes. Avoid prolonged contact with skin. Avoid breathing vapors or aerosols. Use only with adequate ventilation. Keep away from heat, sparks, pilot lights, hot surfaces and open flames. Unplug electrical tools, motors and appliances before spraying or bringing the can near any source of electricity. Electricity can burn a hole in the can and cause contents to burst into flames. To avoid serious burn injury, do not let the can touch battery terminals, electrical connections on motors or appliances or any other source of electricity. Wash thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Keep containers closed when not in use. Keep out of the reach of children. Do not puncture, crush or incinerate containers, even when empty.
Storage: Store in a cool, well-ventilated area, away from incompatible materials Do not store above 120F or in direct sunlight. U.F.C (NFPA 30B) Level 3 Aerosol.
8 – Exposure Controls/Personal Protection
Chemical
Occupational Exposure Limits
Aliphatic Hydrocarbon
100 ppm TWA (ACGIH)
1200 mg/m3 TWA (manufacturer recommended)
Petroleum Base Oil
5 mg/m3 TWA, 10 mg/m3 STEL ACGIH TLV
5 mg/m3 TWA OSHA PEL
LVP Aliphatic Hydrocarbon
1200 mg/m3 TWA (manufacturer recommended)
Carbon Dioxide
5000 ppm TWA (OSHA/ACGIH), 30,000 ppm STEL (ACGIH)
Surfactant
None Established
Non-Hazardous Ingredients
None Established
The Following Controls are Recommended for Normal Consumer Use of this Product
Engineering Controls: Use in a well-ventilated area.
Personal Protection:
Eye Protection: Avoid eye contact. Always spray away from your face.
Skin Protection: Avoid prolonged skin contact. Chemical resistant gloves recommended for operations where skin contact is likely.
Respiratory Protection: None needed for normal use with adequate ventilation.
For Bulk Processing or Workplace Use the Following Controls are Recommended
Engineering Controls: Use adequate general and local exhaust ventilation to maintain exposure levels below that occupational exposure limits.
Page 3 of 4
Personal Protection:
Eye Protection: Safety goggles recommended where eye contact is possible.
Skin Protection: Wear chemical resistant gloves.
Respiratory Protection: None required if ventilation is adequate. If the occupational exposure limits are exceeded, wear a NIOSH approved respirator. Respirator selection and use should be based on contaminant type, form and concentration. Follow OSHA 1910.134, ANSI Z88.2 and good Industrial Hygiene practice.
Work/Hygiene Practices: Wash with soap and water after handling.
9 – Physical and Chemical Properties
Boiling Point:
323F (minimum)
Specific Gravity:
0.817 @ 72F
Solubility in Water:
Insoluble
pH:
Not Applicable
Vapor Pressure:
110 PSI @ 70F
Vapor Density:
Greater than 1
Percent Volatile:
74%
VOC:
412 grams/liter (49.5%)
Coefficient of Water/Oil Distribution:
Not Determined
Appearance/Odor
Light amber liquid/mild odor
Flash Point:
131F (concentrate) Tag Closed Cup
Flammable Limits: (Solvent Portion)
LEL: 1.1% UE:: 8.9%
10 – Stability and Reactivity
Stability: Stable
Hazardous Polymerization: Will not occur.
Conditions to Avoid: Avoid heat, sparks, flames and other sources of ignition. Do not puncture or incinerate containers.
Incompatibilities: Strong oxidizing agents.
Hazardous Decomposition Products: Carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide.
11 – Toxicological Information
The oral toxicity of this product is estimated to be greater than 5,000 mg/kg based on an assessment of the ingredients. This product is not classified as toxic by established criteria. It is an aspiration hazard.
None of the components of this product is listed as a carcinogen or suspected carcinogen or is considered a reproductive hazard.
12 – Ecological Information
No data is currently available.
13 - Disposal Considerations
If this product becomes a waste, it would be expected to meet the criteria of a RCRA ignitable hazardous waste (D001). However, it is the responsibility of the generator to determine at the time of disposal the proper classification and method of disposal. Dispose in accordance with federal, state, and local regulations.
14 – Transportation Information_
DOT Surface Shipping Description: Consumer Commodity, ORM-D
IMDG Shipping Description: Un1950, Aerosols, 2.1, LTD QTY
15 – Regulatory Information
U.S. Federal Regulations:
CERCLA 103 Reportable Quantity: This product is not subject to CERCLA reporting requirements, however, oil spills are reportable to the National Response Center under the Clean Water Act and many states have more stringent release reporting requirements. Report spills required under federal, state and local regulations.
SARA TITLE III:
Hazard Category For Section 311/312: Acute Health, Fire Hazard, Sudden Release of Pressure
Page 4 of 4
Section 313 Toxic Chemicals: This product contains the following chemicals subject to SARA Title III Section 313 Reporting requirements: None
Section 302 Extremely Hazardous Substances (TPQ): None
EPA Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) Status: All of the components of this product are listed on the TSCA inventory.
California Safe Drinking Water and Toxic Enforcement Act (Proposition 65): This product does not contain chemicals regulated under California Proposition 65.
VOC Regulations: This product complies with the consumer product VOC limits of CARB, the US EPA and states adopting the OTC VOC rules.
Canadian Environmental Protection Act: One of the components is listed on the NDSL. All of the other ingredients are listed on the Canadian Domestic Substances List or exempt from notification.
Canadian WHMIS Classification: Class B-5 (Flammable Aerosol)
This MSDS has been prepared according to the criteria of the Controlled Products Regulation (CPR) and the MSDS contains all of the information required by the CPR.
16 – Other Information:
HMIS Hazard Rating:
Health – 1 (slight hazard), Fire Hazard – 4 (severe hazard), Reactivity – 0 (minimal hazard)
SIGNATURE: TITLE: Director of Global Quality Assurance
REVISION DATE: August 2009 SUPERSEDES: March 2009
 
Check again

64742-65-0, Petroleum distillates, solvent dewaxed heavy paraffin- though it has been 'dewaxed' as the solvent flashes off it will become very viscous and leave a 'waxy' residue that will quickly attract unwanted debris.

Here's some reading material for you- WD-40 corp. provided MSDS

http://www.wd40company.com/files/pdf/msds-wd494716385.pdf
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Material Safety Data Sheet
.......
March 2009

Because you just had to quote the entire thing without any formatting. ;)

I don't see "solvent dewaxed heavy paraffin" anywhere on that. Maybe I'm not the one who'd better "check again."

That is a light oil, not a wax. I use this stuff daily for all sorts of things and never had a waxy residue on anything.
 
Because you just had to quote the entire thing without any formatting. ;)

I don't see "solvent dewaxed heavy paraffin" anywhere on that. Maybe I'm not the one who'd better "check again."

That is a light oil, not a wax. I use this stuff daily for all sorts of things and never had a waxy residue on anything.

if you would have read the post or would have cared to read the link provided you would realize that what is listed as 64742-65-0- is solvent dewaxed heavy parafin. that number is the universal industry/hazmat identifer for a substance known as solvent dewaxed heavy parafin OR MINERAL OIL- however once the solvent flashes off it will try to retun to a waxed state.:yawn:

OBTW that is formatted you should try to read it 'unformatted'

as the cliche goes 'you can lead a horse to water, but you can't make him drink'!
 
Spidyman
I have been working on knives and guns for almost 40 years. I have used WD 40 for that length of time. I have never seen any indication of waxing or gumming. Now, give me your qualifications and explain to me why I have never seen this.
BTW- I'm pretty sure I know the right and probably the best ways to clean knives.
 
well Bill,
as a gunsmith myself I have seen an untold number of guns that have been lubricated with WD-40 that have come in with stuck trigger assemblies, gummed up firing pins, complaints of light stirkes/failure to fires, excessively stiff safeties.

Its easy to tell WD-40 lubed guns from those that have just simply been left uncared for.

Those with WD-40 have a light tan or semi clear tacky to fully cured varnish that is very hard to remove w/o several treatments in a sonic bath to get it out of all the precision machined parts nooks and crannies. Those that have been lubed with conventional lubricants and left alone for some time will have a brown to black gooey substance that is easily removed with standard solvents.


You have most likely never seen this as you probably clean things more often and more throughly than most folks do replacing the 'lubricant' before it deterioates enough to be a real problem.

If you truely know the correct and best ways to clean knives you would know that WD-40 has no place in the equation.


We can beat this dead horse again and again but the fact remains that WD-40 is not, nor ever was a suitable chemical for cleaning and lubricating precision actions (knives/guns). Especially those exposed to rather adverse conditions- pocket lint, sand, heavy dust, mud, etc. as it will collect this debris rather quickly creating a worse problem than one started with.

with todays technology and realatively low cost of purpose made lubricants WD-40 should be the last thing you need to reach for.

Militec-1
MMC
Rem-oil
Tuf Glide
Ballistol
KG-4
Weapon Sheild

Are some of the better choices of the vast array of the purpose specific oils
 
"If you truely know the correct and best ways to clean knives you would know that WD-40 has no place in the equation."
I find this hilarious!
Could you tell me the correct way to clean knives?
 
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