Can’t get sand out of SAK

[GTDV]

Been lurking for a while at MTO and this is my first post. I am definitely obtaining the SAK bug (just got my first 2 alox SAKs this week).

I live in a sandy region, and every time I work in my yard outside sand and other debris ends up in my pockets. My Spartan II has gotten crunchy and no amount of washing has helped yet. Hot water + soaking + toothbrush doesn’t do the trick. Any suggestions specifically for sand?

Thanks! I appreciate the friendliness on this board that doesn’t always appear on other sites/social media.
 

[gustophersmob]

I wonder if it would help to liberally soak it in something like WD40 and let it soak for a day or two?

I've not had this problem yet, so I have no idea if that would work.

[gustophersmob]

Oh, just had another idea. Maybe try running it under water while opening and closing the tools. Maybe that would help work the sand out of the joints? 

[Don Pablo]

In addition to what gustophersmob said, have you tried opening and closing the tools repeatedly while the SAK is underwater?
Welcome!

Edit: Haha, gustophersmob beat me to it. 

[Steinar]

 

Not a problem I've encountered much myself, but I think the part with running water is important. Normal gunk can be removed with a soak since it will dissolve or at least be suspended by a soap/water solution. The sand just lies happily where it has lodged itself. From the logic, a heavier suspension which is water soluble might help? (For instance more soap in the water than normal.) Just thinking out loud here, I don't live a place with much sand myself. Perhaps you've found an excuse for getting yourself an ultrasonic cleaner. 

[GTDV]

Thanks for the suggestions. Soaked it in WD40 and going to let it sit. I’ve been thinking about an ultrasonic cleaner, but not sure my wife would understand the purchase yet. 

[gustophersmob]

Oh, I also forgot to say welcome to MTO!

This really is the most friendly place I've seen on the web!

[gustophersmob]

In addition to what gustophersmob said, have you tried opening and closing the tools repeatedly while the SAK is underwater?
Welcome!

Edit: Haha, gustophersmob beat me to it. 

Great minds and all that 

[GTDV]

Oh, I also forgot to say welcome to MTO!

This really is the most friendly place I've seen on the web!

Thanks!

[LoopCutter]

Thanks for the suggestions. Soaked it in WD40 and going to let it sit. I’ve been thinking about an ultrasonic cleaner, but not sure my wife would understand the purchase yet. 

Just let her know you noticed her jewelry was appearing a bit dull and you are buying for her items.   That it will work on your shiny stuff is a small plus.

PS: Where are you located?  Different sands may require different solutions, as some sand is very fine the result of crushed stone result of the ice age, and others near beaches result from shells and diets of sea life being ground by the rolling waves or former sea beds.

Most sand I deal with is just fine dirt, water breaks down to wash away.  Beach type sands often require disassembly if flushing does not clear away.

All the best and welcome 

[cody6268]

At camp, I was near a sandy riverbank. I cleaned it and oiled it a couple of times, and that got the stuff out.  I did have to break down my Gerber Multiplier and Spyderco UKPK to get the stuff out of it.

[VICMAN]

Been lurking for a while at MTO and this is my first post.

Welcome to the forum GTDV!

If you know someone with an air compressor you might try using the nozzle to try and blow the sand particles free....just wear goggles when you try it so you don't get anything in your eyes.

[Blackbeard]

try some unwaxed dental floss, and maybe carry saks in a sheath on belt

[GTDV]

PS: Where are you located?  Different sands may require different solutions, as some sand is very fine the result of crushed stone result of the ice age, and others near beaches result from shells and diets of sea life being ground by the rolling waves or former sea beds.

Florida 

[GTDV]

Got 90% of it out (except a little affecting the small knife) after hot soak - dry - WD40 - hot rinse with opening and closing - dry - Liquid Wrench machine oil.