Rusty handles?

[Shotgun]

So I really like full tang carbon steel fixed blade knives. But, I also prefer uncoated knives. My question is are there any rust issues with sweat, water, or blood getting in between the handle scales and the steel?

Really looking hard at getting a bark river in A2.

 

[knifeman65]

Hi Shotgun. You already like carbon steel blades, and I do as well. They really perform well. I have a BRKW Gameskeeper, and the Mini-Canadian, both in A2 and uncoated and I really like them. Just clean and oil them after use, or after they get wet, and don't store them in the sheaths for long periods of time, and you'll be fine. You'll eventually develope some staining or discoloration that only effects the looks of the knife. For a user, who cares, they still perform as well as before. I haven't had a problem with actual rusting but I am pretty good about cleaning and oiling them. Overall I think you would be happy with a Barkie in A2. Go for it:thumbup:

 

[65535]

Just apply a thick grease between the scales and the tang, when tightened down it should keep junk out and keep it clean as new. I would re-grease every few months.

 

[Shotgun]

Hi Shotgun. You already like carbon steel blades, and I do as well. They really perform well. I have a BRKW Gameskeeper, and the Mini-Canadian, both in A2 and uncoated and I really like them. Just clean and oil them after use, or after they get wet, and don't store them in the sheaths for long periods of time, and you'll be fine. You'll eventually develope some staining or discoloration that only effects the looks of the knife. For a user, who cares, they still perform as well as before. I haven't had a problem with actual rusting but I am pretty good about cleaning and oiling them. Overall I think you would be happy with a Barkie in A2. Go for it

Yeah I don't care if it gets a patina I'm more worried about rust getting into the places I can't see it or clean it up. i.e. under the scales.

Just apply a thick grease between the scales and the tang, when tightened down it should keep junk out and keep it clean as new. I would re-grease every few months.

Do you really do this with pinned on scales?

 

[1whitefoot]

Yes, if you get water under the scales, you'll get rust.
If you can remove the scales, paint or whatever will protect the metal.
If the scales are not removable and you have some gaps between the scales and metal
than use something such as this product,
Permatex Flowable Silicone Windshield & Glass Sealer
I've used it before on knives and it does work.