Pros and cons of the use of mineral oil....

[fishmagician]

I reading both the tinkering thread and the one of the knife collector threads I see most (in the collectors thread) recommending the use of mineral oil for soaking. While reading threads here on the Tinkering thread the opinions clash. Some say use it others - don't. As a non-expert in this matter I'm looking for the logic or reasoning behind the each recommendation. I can see the logic of using mineral oil to keep the stag from shrinkings, and aiding the cracks to seal themselves. Help is appreciated..