M4 Steel Maintenance Tips for a First Time User

[watershipdown451]

I recently acquired a Manix 2 in M4 steel, what are some oils/lubricants to use for the pivot? Also, what do you use to remove tiny specks of rust on the blade?

 

[GatorFlash1]

Break Free CLP. Available at gun stores and sporting goods departments. Not expensive synthetic product. Store lubed knife in plastic ziplock.

http://www.thegunzone.com/rust.html

 

[watershipdown451]

Break Free CLP. Available at gun stores and sporting goods departments. Not expensive synthetic product. Store lubed knife in plastic ziplock.

http://www.thegunzone.com/rust.html

Nice, someone recommended tuf-glide on the pivot, but after doing countless research online it seemed like the general consensus was that it was a poor lubricant for the pivot, but a great way to protect the steel. Excellent tip for storage as well. I bought it used and the blade has developed some light patina. Looks gorgeous. I just don't want rust lol.

This is my first Manix and I am quite impressed. I have had many Paramilitary 2's in different steels and it is a superb knife that is nearly perfect for my uses, but I got bored of it and wanted something different. The Manix 2 has definitely caught my interest.

 

[other memory]

Ive had an m4 blade for a little less than a year now. I immediately forced a patina. Every once in a while i slice an orange with it and let the juice sit for 15-20 min. So far so good. No rust. Sometimes I gripped it and handled it for 30-60 minuites while wood workin with a sweaty hand. Again, no rust on the butt of the handle. Enjoy your new knife!

 

[Threethreethree]

I have put a really dark patina using paper towel impregnated with vinegar and letting the blade oxydizes in several short sessions, so far so good, i seldom oil the knife yet i still use it for cutting fruits and wet things, if i have to wash the knife, i put wd40 to get rid of water in the pivot then a drop of teflon lube.
M4 isnt 1095 or O1 it wont rust that fast if you let fingerprints on it and judging by the time it required to get black with vinegar i dont think it will turn into a lump of rust unless you live near the ocean or tropical area.

 

[watershipdown451]

Nice great tips everyone, thanks. I actually took apart the knife earlier tonight and found a some dark black specks. I left it alone until I figure out how to clean it up. Also, I purchased Break Free and applied some on the pivot. Can't wait to test out and see the results.

I must say that taking apart the manix 2 was a lot more simple than I thought. Gotta watch out for that spring lol. I'm really liking this M4 steel paired with the Manix 2.