All About Pocket Knives

I inherited these knives from my grandfather and I would like to try and restore them a little bit and clean them up without losing the character of his knives. They've just been on a shelf till i recently discovered this forum and figured be a great place for help.
I know 1 probably 2 are Kamp Kings not sure on the others here pics of them http://imgur.com/gallery/1s4d4qA

Sorry if its wordy and thanks for any and all tips.

Hi knifeguy, Welcome! I actually see nothing wrong (at least from the pic) with those knives they way that they are. Unless there is active rust happening on them, I would do much more than oil the joints, and maybe use some type of wax on the metal parts to prevent corrosion.

I know on the knives that belonged to my dad and his dad, I wanted to keep every bit of honest wear and patina on them. After all, that was put there by them, and it's a connection to them.

Of course, not everyone has that feeling, so to each his own I suppose. You can clean out the insides of the knife with toothpicks and pipecleaners.

Oh yeah, I'd keep that yellowish handled one away from the others. It looks like the celluloid covers are outgassing. That process will emit gases that will corrode metal around it. You may want to consider removing what's left of those covers if they are that bad.

Glenn gave you some pretty good advice. I don't see any knives there that are high dollar collectibles, especially considering the condition. However, if you are a person who treasures the connection with your grandfather they are more precious than the most valuable collectors knives on the market. I have both of my grandfathers pocket knives and I treasure them very much. You are very fortunate to have several knives to belong to your grandfather.

Welcome to AAPK!

Thanks for the advice and replys guys got myself a weekend project aside from other fathers day activities this weekend now.

https://boyslife.org/outdoors/ask-the-g ... cketknife/
Additionally, it only looks like the upper right knife, is the one , with any true rust. The others look like they could just stand a good lubing. Rust is not desirable...patina is. Another trick, is to use a #2 pencil to "rub" off areas of active rust. It is hard enough to remove rust; but, soft enough to not damage the metal. I do agree with removing the celluloid handles, that are breaking down. They are continuing to destroy your knife, as well as any knife nearby! Search "off gassing", under the "Search" feature, in the quick links on the upper left side. Finally, periodically apply a thin coat of mineral oil, to the blades and joints, to prevent rust and keep the blades functioning properly.
I find sharpening, cleaning and lubing old knives therapeutic!