General Knife Suggestions

1. Keep your knife sharp. More accidents are caused by a dull cutting edge than a sharp one.
   
   
2. Do not clean your knife with chemicals or in the dishwasher. A little warm water is usually adequate. In extreme cases a drop of mild soap can be used.
   
   
3. Keep your knife and sheath dry. Do not put an oiled blade in a leather sheath. The leather will absorb the oil and soften over time.
   
   
4. Leather sheaths can be treated with waterproofing. Knives can be treated with wax or furniture polish.
   
   
5. The chemicals and dyes used in leather can have negative effects on carbon steel and some guard materials, and can stain some handle materials. When not in use for extended periods it is best to store your knife out of the sheath.
   
   
6. Do not pound on your knife to drive it through something. Get a hatchet for that.