Washer corrosion?

[dkb45]

I have taken a lot of time working on the action of my ZT 550. Countless adjustments, at least two washer polishings (a lazy one then later a good one), cleaning up the lock faces, and trying different oils. I finally got the action to be buttery smooth with no play, and a slight turn of the screw gives it an imperceptible side play but it opened like it was rocket powered. I didn't much carry the knife for about a week and I pick it up today, and the action was really sluggish, almost like it was in slightly slow motion. Popped the knife apart, and the washers which were all nice and shiny are now all spotty and dull...

Did my washers corrode while coated in oil? How? Mineral oil should be chemically inert, so it doesn't make any sense. I really don't want to have to polish the washers every month or so...

 

[dkb45]

Nobody has any ideas? My washers were coated with just the right amount in a thin layer of Hoppes 9 Oil. I have heard that is mineral oil and spirits, so I can't see how that would cause corrosion.

 

[Jason B.]

Try using it and let the parts wear in before you mess with them. Technically it shouldn't even need oil.

 

[uxo2]

I doubt its corrosion.

on a knife that is under normal wear and tear.
the Bronze should polish where it contacts and tarnish were it does not.

I would use a different oil.
And as stated.

use it so the parts wear into each other

 

[dkb45]

I have carried that knife at least 100 times. It has been used and carried (surprisingly doesn't show a mark). I will polish it back up a little and hope my new lube doesn't let it tarnish.