Do Kraton handles need maintenance?

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Knifelvr97

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Aug 18, 2020
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Hello folks, today I've got my first Cold Steel Knife (SRK in VG1) and I am absolutely in love with it. I want to keep it in great condition and therefore I want to ask you if the Kraton handle needs any maintenance, and if so, how often? As it is rubber I worry that, over time, it could become brittle or sticky... Thanks in advance and have a good day ;)
 
I'd be interested in some advice as well. I have a Cold Steel Recon Tanto in Carbon V that is holding up very well, but I have hardly used it.
I think that keeping it out of contact with solvents, direct sunlight (extended, harsh heat, like in a truck cab on the dash for example) and it should last well.
 
No. The biggest thing is to keep them away from heavy exposure to solvents, etc.... Also if it is a combo of Kraton handle and carbon blade, try to keep the oil off the handle. If you need to clean the handle off, I'd just wipe it off with a damp cloth. Kraton is better than celluloid, but is still one of those materials that can go bad out of the blue sometimes, and their isn't a way to stop it.

The big problem over the years was softening and stickiness. Lots of people mention Cold Steel, but it happened to almost everybody that used Kraton back in the 80's - 90's. The manufacturers could only offer that the best thing to do, was keep it away from oils, solvents, and insecticides (DEET, etc....).

I do wonder if they've perfected the formula a bit, because you don't hear about new Kraton handles going bad nearly as much.
 
I’ve never had any problem with Sog and Cold Steel kraton. I have some that’s old. Dirt can get retained in the structure, I just scrub with a brush, soap and water.
 
Yep. I just use soap, water, and an old toothbrush on my SRK. Admittedly, mine isn't decades old tho either. Mine is about 5 years old.
 
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Kraton is resistant to practically anything chemical. Never had a problem with any of mine. It's one of the best handle materials available IMHO, gives a sure grip whether wet/cold/greasy/covered with blood.
 
I have Recon Tanto and I never had any issues.
I am careful not to smudge the handle with oil when oilingthe blade (even when I would the oil would just get wiped easily).
It's never in contact with solvents.
Not much UV exposure.
I just wash it with mild soap and water and it's so far so good.
 
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In my experience, no. About 18 years ago I broke my wrists and could no longer use my chef's knives comfortably when they healed. So I bought a set of more ergonomically handled knives that allow me to chop and slice all day.

The chef knife has a Kraton handle on it that still looks new. That knife never goes in the dishwasher and is always washed by hand. But it is sometimes washed in scalding water using strong detergent several times a day.

It has been used and washed/dried thousands of times to get of acidic foods, bloody debris (light butchery) and anything else food related. The acids and blood, nor the repeated washings (literally 1000s) haven't affected the handles one bit.

Robert
 
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I have a short Ka-Bar fighting knife with a Kraton handle, and I use plain Dawn dish soap and water for cleaning and maintenance.
 
I used to have one of the mini pals on my key ring in my pocket all day every day. After a few years the krayton handle went to mush and completely broke down. I bought another, same thing. Since then it has been a spyderco ladybug, no handle breakdown so far.
 
Solvents and insect repellent and some sunscreen should be avoided but otherwise it is a relatively stable and durable material. Lesser brand knives having cheap Kraton like handles are to be a avoided as they are usually just some type of carbon rubber and become soft and wear out fairly quickly, real Kraton is entirely different.
 
all valid tips stated as above.
i might also add
that material need to be aired.
to be on the safe sise,
don-t store it long term
in close proximity
with anything....
more importantly don't keep it
in an airtight container.
 
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