Rusting/Pitting and the BK9

[O9mm]

I want to buy a BK9. I think it's a great large knife for a great price, and I've read nothing but positive reviews about it.

I'm relatively new to knives, and my folders bought so far are all stainless steel. I know that a good carbon steel is superior to stainless in strength, edge holding, etc.

But I want this large fixed blade for outdoor/survival use. In this use, the blade will be at the highest risk of rusting due to exposure to the elements, and possible inability to properly maintain the blade.

Are the Becker knives prone to rusting? Thanks in advance.

 

[CherylR]

As with any carbon bladed knife, the Becker requires a certain amount of care. The sharpened edge is the only part of the blade exposed and shopuld be protected when not in use. A simple swipe with Vaseline or a Tuff Cloth should be enough.

 

[TIR]

I have yet to have a problem with anything more than surface rust on the edge with any of my Becker knives. I have put them in the sheath wet and they developed surface rust, but with regular use it didn't become a problem. However when I put them up for any length of time I Vaseline the edge as CherylR suggests and they don't rust. These blades are incredibly tough and for the money I don't worry about the little bit of rusting I have seen so far with them.

 

[anomad]

Originally posted by O9mm
But I want this large fixed blade for outdoor/survival use. In this use, the blade will be at the highest risk of rusting due to exposure to the elements, and possible inability to properly maintain the blade.

I haven't had my beckers in constantly wet/humid environments yet. I have used one in the kitchen a lot without any sign of oxidation and all I did was wipe it with a cloth after use/washing etc.. I have also used cheapo knives and machetes in florida and other salty/humid places without a problem.

In a regular outdoor situation there is plenty of room in the sheath pouch or the hollow handle for a few oil/grease saturated cottonballs that could double as emergency fire tender and blade wipers. If you were really concerned about a long term survival situation you could save a small quantity of animal fat to wipe down the blade with.

Unless you were regularly dipping this thing in saltwater I doubt rust would be an issue.