Use of Copper Pins/Corbys

[J. Hoffman]

If I were to use Copper pins or corby's on a handle what would be the best way to keep them from corroding and turning green. I want to stay with a natural oil finish on the wood handle.

 

[Brian Ayres]

Is it a user? I find as a plumber, that copper on tools doesn't corrode much at all... I've made trays with copper handles that stayed nice for years...
Other than that I'd like to know too... I bought some the "special run" Corby's and have a knife I'm forging from an old caulking iron and other parts I "found" at work for the owner of my company that will use all copper accents.

 

[J. Hoffman]

Yeah, it will be a user. I'm looking at putting them on kitchen knives.

 

[Los Angeles]

I use copper in a lot of my work. For a nice brown to grey finish, I prefer a soak in Liver of Sulfur and then brushing with a soft brass brush. You can then "seal" it with renaissance wax.

EDIT: Here's a sample of the look.

 

[Nathan the Machinist]

When is the last time you saw a green penny? Copper has good corrosion resistance. Even just occasional use will prevent any unsightly green funk. They'll turn a nice dark copper color, don't sweat it.

 

[J. Hoffman]

Good Point Nathan. Thanks

 

[Brian Ayres]

Another thought on Knife "corrosion"... I see people worrying about carbon steels like 1080 corroding for example. I found out that the Channnel Lock brand pliers are made of 1080.. I have 3-4 pair that I use daily, get em wet EVERY day, and almost never have any rust issues. They always develop a patina after a few days of use. Sorry for the hijack.

I like copper on knives. Does renaissance wax work well to keep it bright?