Does Black Oxide rust easier?

[captain spaulding]

Just wondering if the Black Oxide has the same rust protection of Stainless Steel or if it is more likely to rust. I am referring to Leatherman and Victorinox. I figure they have different Black finishes so it will most likely be different for each.

[dks]

In theory, if the coating is added on top of the standard stainless steel, it should, at the least, maintain the rust resistance of that stainless steel. I have seen, on the internet, people removing or scratching these finishes with no problems regarding rust resistance, so you still should have the original rust resistance.

If the coating is on non stainless steel, or if the process of aplying the coating damages in some way the stainless steel then things will be different....

[captain spaulding]

In theory, if the coating is added on top of the standard stainless steel, it should, at the least, maintain the rust resistance of that stainless steel. I have seen, on the internet, people removing or scratching these finishes with no problems regarding rust resistance, so you still should have the original rust resistance.

If the coating is on non stainless steel, or if the process of aplying the coating damages in some way the stainless steel then things will be different....

Very true. I did not even think about that. But even if you maintain the rust resistance under the Black Oxide you can still have a major rust issue. I have just been thinking about it because I have been wanting a Black Oxide Swiss Tool. 

[tattoosteve99]

Black oxide is actually a form of rust. It's controlled with a chemical that allows the formation of oxide (rust). With this special chemical and heat, it turns black instead of red. Iron oxide (rust) is what happens normally. Ever tried to get rust of something made of steel. It's pretty tough. You can buy over the shelf touchup blackener (it works ok) for the spots that show through. However any acidic substance will hasten the removal process. I have researched thus quite a lot recently that's how I understand it.

[dks]

I have Blued guns before; sounds like a similar process.

[tattoosteve99]

It is similar. But with stainless steel it adds a couple little extra processes to it.

[New_World]

i put car wax on my black oxide MTs to protect em.  =)

[Outback in Idaho]

i put car wax on my black oxide MTs to protect em.  =)

Turtle Wax?

[New_World]

i put car wax on my black oxide MTs to protect em.  =)

Turtle Wax?
(Image removed from quote.)

as long as its non abrasive, I wouldn't worry too much.

[Styerman]

Ren Wax , White Lightening ( wax based bike chain lube ) do a great job of protecting Blued surfaces . A light application of a hairdryer helps the wax penetrate and bond to any pores .

Chris

[Accujohn]

Great post on defining the black oxide.. Thanks!