extended mantainance

[outdoorsman196]

okay, so i was wondering what can be done to maintain a knife and keep it rust free in an extended survival/bushcraft/emergency scenario.even if you packed oil, it will eventually run out so what do you do when that happens? how do you keep them(folders and fixed) rust free and in good shape? thanks

 

[kreole]

I would think if you're in an emergency situation rust on your knife would be the least of your concerns, and bringing oil for that purpose would take space up that could be filled with something useful.

Otherwise just wipe it off when it gets wet or put it in the sheath wet.

edit^ that should say 'and don't put it in the sheath wet'.

 

[Rapt_up]

I'd say make sure you have a rust free steel or a sharpening device, all that really matters is keeping the edge good.
Patina elsewhere isn't critical.

 

[Magnaminous_G]

Honestly? Just wipe after use. Kydex is king. If you're using it a lot, you won't be able to really keep it oiled. If it's a real nasty, damp environment, and your knife is made with something like 52100, it *will* rust, no matter what you try. You just polish out the rust spots when you get back to civilization. But still wipe it after use and try to keep it dry; that will prevent nasty pitting. Some people say keep an oily rag on you (mineral oil) to wipe the blade. That probably makes sense. If you're bugging out for a long time, take a sharpener for edge maintenance; that will be more important. Some people like the diafolds by DMT. Some people take the diamond or ceramic rods that collapse into a brass handle. There are lots of brands for those.