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Humidity Level for Bone and Stag Handles
Posted: Sat Sep 26, 2020 10:03 pm
by Dragline
I’m storing my knives in a Man Shed aka “Utility Room”. Being in the South I worry about Moisture, so I bought a dehumidifier. Don’t want to dry out the bone and Stag so what moisture setting do I need? Thanks for your input
Joe
Re: Humidity Level for Bone and Stag Handles
Posted: Sat Sep 26, 2020 10:24 pm
by peanut740
I wouldn't worry too much about drying out the bone or stag.Rust is the biggest threat.
Re: Humidity Level for Bone and Stag Handles
Posted: Sat Sep 26, 2020 10:34 pm
by eveled
All my research says 50% is ideal. For people, guns or knives.
Re: Humidity Level for Bone and Stag Handles
Posted: Sat Sep 26, 2020 10:36 pm
by Doc B
All my knives stay in a safe...with a dehumidifier...without any problem. If I'm oiling blades...I'll lightly wipe scales, with a mineral oil coated rag.
Re: Humidity Level for Bone and Stag Handles
Posted: Sat Sep 26, 2020 11:12 pm
by orvet
I'm with Doc, I have some of my most valued knives in a safe with a dehumidifier. With natural materials and carbon steel a light oiling every year or two is probably not going to hurt either. If their folders I would oil the joints with Quick-Release Oil and the blades and handles I would use food grade mineral oil on.
If it's an older knife with some rust already on it, I would clean that off and use Eezox on the blade. Eezox is usually available at gun stores, but has a distinct odor. I would allow it to air out and the odor to dissipate for a day or two before I put the knife back in the safe.
(However, I can tell you if he ideal temperature and humidity in which to store your cigars: 70 degrees and 70% humidity. I used to manage a small chain of cigar stores is why I know. )

Re: Humidity Level for Bone and Stag Handles
Posted: Sun Sep 27, 2020 1:02 am
by Beavertail
orvet wrote: ↑Sat Sep 26, 2020 11:12 pm
I'm with Doc, I have some of my most valued knives in a safe with a dehumidifier. With natural materials and carbon steel a light oiling every year or two is probably not going to hurt either. If their folders I would oil the joints with Quick-Release Oil and the blades and handles I would use food grade mineral oil on.
If it's an older knife with some rust already on it, I would clean that off and use Eezox on the blade. Eezox is usually available at gun stores, but has a distinct odor. I would allow it to air out and the odor to dissipate for a day or two before I put the knife back in the safe.
(However, I can tell you if he ideal temperature and humidity in which to store your cigars: 70 degrees and 70% humidity. I used to manage a small chain of cigar stores is why I know. )
I love a good cigar!
I haven't smoked one in years, but I think I'll pick up some. I used to love those Rocky Patel box pressed.
Re: Humidity Level for Bone and Stag Handles
Posted: Sun Sep 27, 2020 1:31 am
by hardman
Agree with whoever said 50% relative humidity. I shoot for 45 - 50 in my safes and displays. If you live in an area with cold winters, remember that may mean having to add humidity to the ambient air in winter, while dehumidifiing in the summer.
Re: Humidity Level for Bone and Stag Handles
Posted: Sun Sep 27, 2020 1:54 pm
by Quick Steel
Every 12 to 18 months I wipe down my knives, blades and scales, with mineral oil.
Re: Humidity Level for Bone and Stag Handles
Posted: Sun Sep 27, 2020 3:41 pm
by Dragline
Thank everyone for the guidance. I set it to 50% Everything oil up too
Joe