Elder Burl Scales - Best way to maintain?

[DC Kestrel]

So I was fortunate to pick up a knife I've been searching for a while - Small Sebenza with Elder Burl scales. At some point, I just need to enjoy the knife, but I've seen pictures where the light scales pick up dye from jeans. I plan on taking off the clip and just using the sheath, and others have done that, does the color of the leather stain the scales? A user is a user, but other than avoiding using the knife in humid situations (or getting it wet), is there anything else I should be doing in terms of maintenance/handling?

TIA.

 

[foldingknifefan]

apply ren wax, they should hold up pretty well. I would definitely not let them soak in water but humidity and getting wet for a brief period should be fine. it is stabilized wood.

 

[Ernie1980]

I second ren wax, I use it on all my wood inlay and covered knives. I have never had a leather slip (CRK or others) stain an inlay.

 

[DC Kestrel]

Thank you! Renwax and leather slip it is!

 

[JW225]

Have never used Renwax, but I'm considering it.

Will using Renwax darken the wood at all?

 

[IDhorace]

It has not when I have used it, on both wood and on leather. ymmv

 

[JW225]

It has not when I have used it, on both wood and on leather. ymmv

Thanks — much appreciated!

 

[Easyrider]

I realize that this is obvious but to protect the wood inlays you could just leave the knife in its manufacturers packaging and never use it. You could pull it out occasionally wearing cotton gloves to admire it.
Just go buy a Plain Jane Sebenza and make that your daily user.

 

[SuzukiGS750EZ]

I agree renwax. I bought some, it'll last me a life time. I use it on my spalted beech