Metal Saw Stain

[austin83]

I just received a "new" Swiss Champ with SOS kit from eBay.  The tools are in perfect condition except the metal saw has some stains on it.  The stains first looked like dried blood, but I have been unable to fully remove them.  I have scrubbed them with soap and a brush, magic eraser, scraping with a needle, and q-tips with hydrogen peroxide.  They are not as noticeable, but they are still there.  It's not a big deal as this knife will be dedicated to my backpack, but I wouldn't mind getting it cleaned up if possible.  Has anyone experienced the metal saw being prone to staining, or does anyone have any cleaning suggestions? 

[JamesJ]

Ok so check out SAKWIKI and read up on the different metal saws used over the years (you may already know all about this, sorry if this is a repeat)

There is a newer stainless version and a slightly older case-hardened version with chrome plating (or some kind of plating).

My 2007 swisschamp has the old type file.

It's not stainles and is plated...which means if thats the version you have...it could be rust. If the plating is gone the non-stainless metal is exposed.

If it IS rust then I suggest a wire brush attachment on a dremel tool. If you have the newer stainless file, its probably not rust...but I still think a wire brush would be the way to go. I wouldn't use one on a shiny blade (unless much polishing was to follow) but on a ruff file you dont have to worry about scratches as much, just keep the bristles away from the scales and other tools.

Hopefully somebody can confirm about the different file types etc.

Good luck, post pics if ya gottem

[Aloha]

Pretty much nailed it.  The older file was less aggressive as well, more like a nail file.  The newer file is very aggressive and less prone to rust. 

I have older files on my SAKs ( Champion/Swisschamp )  I've used penetrating oil by Liquid wrench and PB Blaster on those old files.  Let it soak and come back with a wire brush.  On my most used SAK with older file I've found using it has removed some of the rust that was sitting on the raised area.  The lower parts of the file still are stained still. 

Enjoy your SAK also put a drop of oil on the file as you store it.   

[austin83]

Thanks guys!  I used a little wd40 with a wire brush to almost completely remove the stain.  I might hit it again later to finish it off.  I also had to slightly bend the corkscrew to allow it to close without the tip of the corkscrew catching the outside layer.  Thanks again!