Accessories - Housewares - Finishing Touches - cleaning pocket knifes
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Cut Above
11-04-05, 03:52 PM
Please help. I have inherited a rather large collection of pocket knifes and have been told that some are very expensive. My problem is some of them have a green tint to them and I need to clean them but don't want to hurt their value. Is there a product or procedure to cleaning knifes. I know that a metal clean product would clean the blades but I don't want to destroy the bodies of the knifes.
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mitch17
11-04-05, 04:24 PM
If these knives have collection value, cleaning them will probably hurt their value. I would check with a reputable dealer first.
twelvepole
11-17-05, 11:36 AM
Consult with a professional curator of vintage knives before proceeding. Inappropriate cleaning methods can destroy the value of your collection. If you DIY, practice on some non-collectible knives until you master the technique.
Moisture and fingerprints are the greatest enemies of collectible knives. Check periodically. Wipe after handling. A gentle, quality metal polish is typically used to remove rust and tarnish. Keeping blades oiled with a good oil protects metal. Some collectors use silicon or wax. Knives should be stored where there is low humidity and constant temperature. Check and wipe knives monthly. Do not carry collectible knives in pockets where keys and coins can scratch them. Do not store in containers where knives will touch each other and possibly scratch. They make special collector cases for knife collections. Remove knives from leather sheaths when storing because acids and salts in leather can take a toll on knives.
Remember that the knives that bring the most value are those in excellent and mint condition. Without proper care and maintenance the loss of value of a knife collection can be great.
Attend knife shows and focus on talking and not buying until you learn more about knives, their value, and their care and maintenance. You will also want to learn more about what makes a knife rare. There are many good books and magazines about knives, knife history, collecting knives, as well as catalogs and price guides for collectors. You will want to know how to identify counterfeit and altered knives as well.
Moisture and fingerprints are the greatest enemies of collectible knives. Check periodically. Wipe after handling. A gentle, quality metal polish is typically used to remove rust and tarnish. Keeping blades oiled with a good oil protects metal. Some collectors use silicon or wax. Knives should be stored where there is low humidity and constant temperature. Check and wipe knives monthly. Do not carry collectible knives in pockets where keys and coins can scratch them. Do not store in containers where knives will touch each other and possibly scratch. They make special collector cases for knife collections. Remove knives from leather sheaths when storing because acids and salts in leather can take a toll on knives.
Remember that the knives that bring the most value are those in excellent and mint condition. Without proper care and maintenance the loss of value of a knife collection can be great.
Attend knife shows and focus on talking and not buying until you learn more about knives, their value, and their care and maintenance. You will also want to learn more about what makes a knife rare. There are many good books and magazines about knives, knife history, collecting knives, as well as catalogs and price guides for collectors. You will want to know how to identify counterfeit and altered knives as well.