Electrolyisis rust removal

[MountainMan]

Ive been using an electrolysis bucket system to remove rust on some of my metal tools and axes Ive been rehabing. Has anyone done this to a pocketknife, specifically one that still has the handles on it?

[Shearer]

Ive been using an electrolysis bucket system to remove rust on some of my metal tools and axes Ive been rehabing. Has anyone done this to a pocketknife, specifically one that still has the handles on it?

From what I can see on the internet they have removed the handles from tools.
If you have a pocket knife that you don't love give it a try or ask if any of the member could donate a knife and you can post the results.
I am sure a lot of the members would be interested.

Grant

[MountainMan]

Ive been using an electrolysis bucket system to remove rust on some of my metal tools and axes Ive been rehabing. Has anyone done this to a pocketknife, specifically one that still has the handles on it?

From what I can see on the internet they have removed the handles from tools.
If you have a pocket knife that you don't love give it a try or ask if any of the member could donate a knife and you can post the results.
I am sure a lot of the members would be interested.

Grant

Ive got an Ulster BSA utility knife with white plastic scales. Im thinking it will be my guinea pig. I have an axe head in it now.

[philco]

I'm awaiting your full report. Sounds interesting.

[MountainMan]

Ok, I know you are all waiting with baited breath......The results are in and they are a resounding YES! It went well beyond my expectations. The whole process of electrolysis only effects steel. It didn't harm the plastic scales, brass pins or liners. What I did was open up all four blades, attach it to the wire and put it in. I set my battery charger on 2 amps and let it go for 24hours. I just took it out, washed it under warm water and scrubbed the rust residue off with a nylon brush. The patina did not come off at all which has been my experience with axe heads and that is perfectly fine.

I did not do this with a knife that has either epoxy under the scales or a natural scale. I do know that any substance like epoxy or paint that will peel off the steel.

My only regret was in my haste, I didn't take any pictures. I do have a couple of more knives to try this on and when I do, I will post pixs.

In the meantime, if you want to watch a good video on setting up an electrolysis tank, go to YouTube and type in "Wood magazine electrolysis rust removal". They have the best video I think.

[wlf]

Sounds very interesting and promising.

[SteelMyHeart85420]

Where are the follow-up pics? I was researching this question for the very same reasons as your original post...and we all like pics!