exposed metal portion of a fulltang carbon blade (care)?

Cleanser · **on:** December 26, 2011, 03:59:04 AM

On a carbon full tang knife there is metal exposed on the handle portion that is also carbon steel. My hands sweat a lot when holding stuff. This gets salty sweat on carbon steel. Oiling this portion is not really a good option because then you get oil all over your hands. The two best solutions I see are: wear gloves or coat the metal with something like clear nail polish.

What do you do?

Ashley · **Reply #1 on:** December 26, 2011, 04:03:31 AM

Hum

I'd try the clear nail polish but someone else might have a better idea.

jerseydevil · **Reply #2 on:** December 26, 2011, 04:13:45 AM

Companies such as Rustoleum sell clear coats for metal that would work well. They are rust preventative and quite durable after two or three coats. They are also available in several different sheens. The only issue is that they will yellow if oil-based. Acrylic clears are not as durable and wouldn't protect the steel as well, but won't yellow.

jzmtl · **Reply #3 on:** December 26, 2011, 07:54:38 AM

I say don't worry about it. outright rust won't happen unless you neglect it completely, and in time patina will form to keep it from rusting too much further.