Opinions Needed

[Mitch W.]

When one acquires a knife with a carbon steel blade that has been "cleaned" up too much and then has no more patina, how long does it take for the patina to start to return? I just acquired a Cattaraugus 225Q that has been improperly cleaned and I'm wondering if I should leave it alone and let the patina return or go ahead and polish it up. I will post pictures as soon as I can. NOTE TO MODS: This has also been placed in the General Forum

 

[Badhammer]

If you just oil it and let it set I'd guess that the patina, aka oxidation, is going to take several years at best. Use, especially in food prep or other activity that expose the blade to acidic elements would also bring about a natural patina, in less time. You could always force a patina.

 

[sitflyer]

I remember reading in traditional folders forum where a member would cut limes with a carbon blade to force a patina. This was on a new knife.

 

[Call_to_Arms]

I dont think this is a Buck knife, but I may be mistaken. Either way there is many ways to force a patina, potatoes, mustard, vinegar, a search for forced patina will yield worlds of information.

 

[Plumberdv]

I dont think this is a Buck knife, but I may be mistaken. Either way there is many ways to force a patina, potatoes, mustard, vinegar, a search for forced patina will yield worlds of information.

You are correct, it's not a Buck.

 

[Mitch W.]

That is why I posted it here as well as the general discussion forum. I am simply seeking opinions on how to proceed.

 

[edbeau]

Like was stated, any acidity in fruit or vegetable will change the color. I would say that orange or lemon or lime would be best.

 

[Esav Benyamin]

That is why I posted it here as well as the general discussion forum. I am simply seeking opinions on how to proceed.

You posted it here because this is your "home". Posting in two forums is not a great idea. General Knife Discussion is a better place, but I'm not going to hunt for it, I'll take your word for it and just close this.