All About Pocket Knives

Suredan wrote: ↑Sat Aug 15, 2020 12:18 am Hey Doc. What kind of cleaning fluid do you use?

hardman wrote: ↑Sat Aug 15, 2020 2:05 am I have not used a steam iron, but I have used a hand held steam cleaner. Set up takes a while, but it does a really nice job. I used it on some Curly Maple scales and was quite impressed.

dlr110 wrote: ↑Sat Aug 15, 2020 3:57 am cudgee, I don't know if you can get it, but I use Murphy Oil Soap on most handles except wood of course. For me it cleans bone, Delrin, or celluloid real good. You can use a cotton patch, cloth or for real grime use a soft toothbrush.

dlr110 wrote: ↑Sat Aug 15, 2020 11:26 am Here is where some of us talked about cleaning including wood handles. From about June 27 and later are some good tips.
Just trying to help you, hope this is what you're looking for.

viewtopic.php?f=2&t=66760&start=15

rea1eye wrote: ↑Sat Aug 15, 2020 9:47 pm When I get a used knife I always use 70% rubbing alcohol on a clean white cloth
and rub, I do not soak it. Grease and grime will continue to be removed with each rub. The
scales can look a bit dry afterwards so in the final step process of cleaning
I apply several rounds of mineral oil (overnight is best). If wood handles ,I use
I use one of my wife’s furniture polish/waxes.

Rubbing alcohol is good for cleaning blades and the wells of knife too.

Bob

cudgee wrote: ↑Sat Aug 15, 2020 2:17 am

hardman wrote: ↑Sat Aug 15, 2020 2:05 am I have not used a steam iron, but I have used a hand held steam cleaner. Set up takes a while, but it does a really nice job. I used it on some Curly Maple scales and was quite impressed.

Thanks, how did you do it, just a brief description will do.

hardman wrote: ↑Sat Aug 15, 2020 10:28 pm

cudgee wrote: ↑Sat Aug 15, 2020 2:17 am

hardman wrote: ↑Sat Aug 15, 2020 2:05 am I have not used a steam iron, but I have used a hand held steam cleaner. Set up takes a while, but it does a really nice job. I used it on some Curly Maple scales and was quite impressed.

Thanks, how did you do it, just a brief description will do.

The steam cleaner I use has an on board water reservoir which must be filled. After plugging the unit in and turning it on, you wait for the light on the pressure wand to illuminate as that indicates you have sufficient steam pressure. Then, you carefully hold the knife, but be sure to wear gloves.
That steam is very hot and can easily burn an unprotected hand. Simply press the button on the wand and run it quickly back and forth across the scales. The process removes grime and even any stains in the wood near the bolsters from using a bolster polish. The beauty of the medium pressure steam is that you get effective cleaning without super saturating the wood. You will find the scales will be dry to the touch within a few short minutes. Then, in my case, I just used Ren Wax on the scales to impart a finish and afford some level of protection.