how to maintain your daily knife

How to Maintain Your Daily Knife: Essential Care Tips for Longevity

Your daily knife is a valuable tool, whether it’s part of your Everyday Carry (EDC) setup or used for specific tasks like camping or outdoor work. Proper maintenance not only keeps your knife sharp and functional but also extends its lifespan. In this guide, we’ll cover the essential steps to keep your EDC knife in top condition.

1. Clean Your Knife Regularly

Dirt, debris, and moisture can dull your blade and cause rust or corrosion over time. Follow these steps to clean your knife:

    •    Disassemble (if applicable): For folding knives, carefully take the knife apart if the design allows.

    •    Rinse the Blade: Use warm, soapy water to clean off dirt and grime. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the blade.

    •    Dry Thoroughly: Use a microfiber cloth to ensure no moisture remains, as even small droplets can cause rust.

    •    Clean the Handle: Wipe down the handle to remove dirt, sweat, or residue.

Tip: For fixed-blade knives, focus on cleaning the blade and handle without soaking them for too long.

2. Lubricate the Moving Parts

Folding knives rely on smooth operation, which requires proper lubrication. Here’s how to do it:

    •    Choose a Knife-Safe Lubricant: Use a light oil specifically designed for knives (e.g., specialized knife lubricants).

    •    Apply to the Pivot: Add a drop of oil to the pivot point.

    •    Spread Evenly: Open and close the knife several times to distribute the oil.

Why It Matters: Lubrication prevents wear and ensures your folding knife opens and closes smoothly.

3. Sharpen Your Blade Regularly

A dull knife is not only less effective but also more dangerous to use. Keep your blade sharp with these methods:

    •    Use a Whetstone: A whetstone is one of the best tools for sharpening your knife. Start with a coarse grit and finish with a fine grit for a razor-sharp edge.

    •    Knife Sharpeners: Our favorite method is with a Worksharp kit, it helps maintain a proper angle when used properly.

    •    Strop the Blade: Use a leather strop to polish the edge and remove any burrs after sharpening.

Tip: Strop your knife as soon as you notice it starting to dull. Regular maintenance is easier than restoring a very dull blade.

4. Protect Your Blade from Rust

Rust is the enemy of any knife, especially those made from high-carbon steel.

To prevent corrosion:

    •    Keep It Dry: Always dry your knife thoroughly after cleaning or use.

    •    Apply a Protective Coating: Use a thin layer of rust-preventative oil or wax, especially if your knife is made from high-carbon steel.

    •    Store Properly: Keep your knife in a dry environment. Avoid storing it in leather sheaths for extended periods, as leather can retain moisture.

5. Tighten Loose Screws

Over time, screws in folding knives or pocket clips may loosen. Periodically check for:

*Use care to not over tighten

    •    Pivot Screws: Tighten them gently to ensure the blade doesn’t wobble.

    •    Handle Screws: Secure any screws holding the scales or handle together.

    •    Pocket Clips: Tighten loose screws to keep the clip secure.

Use the appropriate tool (e.g., a Torx driver) to avoid stripping the screws. We personally recommend WIHA branded bits.

6. Care for the Handle

The handle is just as important as the blade. Maintenance depends on the material:

    •    Micarta or G-10: Clean with mild soap and water, then dry thoroughly. Avoid prolonged exposure to moisture.

    •    Wood Handles: Use wood oil or wax to keep the material from drying out or cracking.

    •    Metal Handles: Wipe with a damp cloth and use a rust-preventative spray if necessary.

7. Store Your Knife Properly

Proper storage prevents unnecessary wear and tear. Keep these tips in mind:

    •    Use a Knife Roll or Case: Protect your knife from scratches and environmental factors.

    •    Keep Away from Humidity: Use a dehumidifier or silica gel packs if storing knives in a humid area.

8. Regularly Inspect for Damage

Periodically inspect your knife for:

    •    Blade Chips or Nicks: Address small chips with sharpening or send the knife for professional repair.

    •    Handle Damage: Look for cracks or wear, especially in wood or composite materials.

    •    Locking Mechanism Wear: For folding knives, ensure the lock engages securely.

9. Know When to Seek Professional Help

Some knife maintenance tasks may require a professional touch:

    •    Regrinding the Blade: If your knife has significant chips or wear, a professional can restore the edge.

    •    Warranty Repairs: Many knife brands, including Daily Knife, offer repair or replacement under warranty for certain issues.

10. Build a Maintenance Kit

Having the right tools on hand makes knife care easy. Your kit should include:

    •    A whetstone or sharpening system.

    •    Lubricating oil.

    •    Microfiber cloths.

    •    Torx drivers or other tools for screws.

    •    Rust-preventative spray or oil.

Keep Your Daily Knife Ready for ANYTHING: Take it beyond the pocket!

Proper maintenance ensures your daily knife stays sharp, functional, and ready to tackle any task. By cleaning, sharpening, lubricating, and inspecting your knife regularly, you’ll enjoy reliable performance for years to come.

Ready to upgrade your EDC?

Visit Dailyknife.com (https://dailyknife.com) to explore premium knives and accessories.

    •    How to Maintain Your Daily Knife | Essential EDC Care Tips

    •    Learn how to clean, sharpen, and care for your daily knife with this guide. Keep your EDC knife in top condition with expert maintenance tips from Dailyknife.com.