How to remove rust spots from a D2 Blade?

H

HiPlainsGrifter

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Jan 20, 2006
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I'm sure this has been asked before so apologies in advance. I have a Benchmade Model 32 with a D2 Tool Steel blade and though I've tried to keep it dry, it has developed some light rust spots on the blade. I guess this a the down side of low chromium content in one's blade steel. I've tried Sentry Solutions dry lubricant but no luck. Any suggestions on how to clean up the blade?

Thanks,

-C
 
Sometimes a pencil eraser takes it off or rubbing oil on the blade and scratching it off with your finger nail.
 
Simichrome metal polish, a tough rag (a patch from an old pair of jeans works well), and a lot of elbow grease. You might not be able to eliminate the spots completely, but you can at least remove the rust.
 
If it isn't too deep, I was able to get it off with a Q-tip, polish, and a little elbow grease. Depending on how bad it is though, you may want something more abrasive.
 
Ouch, I hate rust.

Steel wool or sand paper are usually what I use, but I'd try the less abrasive methods suggested above before you resort to these, as you are going to have to deal with the consequences of more abrasive methods (scratches, etc).

I had a 1095 blade rust on me because I went working outside and got the sheath all sweaty.......was long enough to leave etching.
 
I'd first use the polishing paste (Simichrome or Flitz will both work). D2 is almost a true stainless ('stainless' = 12-13% or more chromium). The chromium content is actually much higher in this particular 'non-stainless' steel (D2's chromium is ~ 10.5-11%), than in other carbon steels like 1095 or O1, with less than 1% or none, in the case of 1095. So the rust shouldn't be too deep and should come off fairly easy.

My favorite method is the Bar Keepers Friend, as suggested. BUT, be careful with it, because the oxalic acid in it (which is why it works so well) can also etch the steel if it's left on the blade too long. I use the powder form of the product, mixed to a paste with water, and applied to specific spots with a Q-tip. Wet the blade first. The acid will do almost all the work (or all, if the rust is light). Rub with the Q-tip for no more than 30-60 seconds or so, and thoroughly rinse it off.


David
 
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