Effects of chlorine on blade steels?

Joined
Dec 21, 2000
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32
I was just flicking my BM 705 open and shut(love that Axis) when I noticed some discoloration on the sides of the blade edge. Looking more closely, I noticed that there are small, brownish-yellow spots at various locations. Lately, I've been taking the 705 with me to the pool, clipped to the waistband of my swimming trunks.

Here's the question: Could the chlorine content of the pool and jacuzzi be causing such discoloration? The 705 is the only knife that I have taken with me to the pool, and all my other knives show no signs of the discoloration.

Also, what recommendations do any of you have for removing the discoloration from my 705?


Stephen
 
I think that funny color is rust. The hydrochloric acid and sodium hypochlorite they put in the pool is great for promoting rust. One thing that would help minimise this is to shower right after you get out of the pool and get the chlorine out of your suit (it will even make your suit last longer). Rinse your knife with tap water and dry (you might bring a small towel just for your knife).
 
Chlorine can corrode stainless steel. I would assume that the concentration of Chlorine in the pool is enough to discolor the blade. I agree with Jeff about getting the blade out of the wet trunks and rinsed off. A 440A blade may be more resistant to the effect of chlorine.

gm
 
To clean the blade try a product called Flitz. It's pretty amazing stuff. You should be able to get it at about any decent gun shop or knife dealer.

Are you actually swimming with the knife clipped on or just putting it back in your wet trunks?

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"I'd rather be judged by 12 than carried by 6"
 
The problem is likely to be the chloride ion. This is well known to cause pitting in stainless steel. For a good explanation, see HERE

Chloride concentrations as low as 10 to 100 ppm are corrosive.

Walt
 
I think it is all the kids whizzing in the pool.
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Asi es la vida

Bugs
 
Thanks for all the answers, guys...turns out the discoloration was right on the suface. It wiped right off with some hot water and a towel, so I'll definitely make sure to rinse the blade right after I'm out of the pool.

Stephen
 
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