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Knife Care
Just like
any other valuable object, a Case knife's longevity can be increased by properly
taking care of it. The most common tasks every Case knife owner should be
familiar with is how to remove dirt and rust from a knife, and how to sharpen
it. We offer other tips like how to remove adhesives and how to clean the blade
and handle properly. Finally, to ensure that your efforts last, we show
you how to store your knife.
Removing Dirt
The first step in cleaning an older knife
is to remove any lint, grease, or dirt. Some of the most common tools for this
task are clean, soft rags or cloths, wooden toothpicks, old soft-brushed
toothbrushes, and cotton tipped swabs. These tools should be used with light,
non-drying, non-staining oil.
Removing Adhesives
Many older knives will have sticky adhesive
tape residue on the handles from old labels. This can easily be removed with
nail polish remover applied to a soft cloth. Acetone is the active ingredient in
nail polish remover, so use it in a well-ventilated area. Lighter fluid may also
be used for the same task. Extreme care should be taken when using either, for
they are both highly flammable.
Re-sharpening Your
Knife
Hold the blade at a 10” to 15” angle from
the surface of a sharpening stone. Maintain a constant angle and stroke the
blade as if shaving a thin layer from the stone. Repeat the stroking motion
along the entire edge of the blade starting at the blade heel and working to the
tip. Turn the blade over and repeat the process.
Cleaning Blades and
Handles
Apply a small drop of oil in the joints of
your knife and a small amount of oil on a clean, soft rag or cloth. Then, wipe
down the blades and handles with the soft cloth. The inside of the knife can be
cleaned with the cotton-tipped swabs and wooden tooth picks. Take special care
when using pipe cleaners to avoid scratching the surface with their wire core.
Toothpicks or toothbrushes can be used to clean out the crevices in the jigging
and other small areas where gunk can accumulate.
Storing Your Knives
When your knife cleaning tasks are complete
and your knives once again look shiny and new, store them properly to ensure
that they stay clean and rust free. Many experts recommend storing your knives
in vinyl rolls with cloth interiors. Knife rolls are also great for transporting
your knives to swap meets or knife shows. Display cases with felt interiors are
also good for knife storage and they also allow knives to be shown easily.
Anatomy of a Case Knife |
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