| Experienced hunters understand what a difference | | | | dry and protect it against accidental bumps, you |
| a good hunting knife can make in the field. A | | | | can store it in a sheath made of nylon or |
| high-quality hunting knife, like any other hunting | | | | thermoplastic acrylic-polyvinyl sheeting. To store a |
| gear, should be treated as an investment and | | | | knife for the long term, wrap it in paper and seal |
| cared for properly so it can last for years. | | | | it in a plastic bag with desiccant to prevent |
| For starters, it's important to keep in mind that a | | | | humidity. |
| knife should only be used as it was intended - not | | | | Never store a knife in a leather sheath, particularly |
| as a hammer, screwdriver, hatchet, ice pick or | | | | tanned leather, as the chemicals within the |
| throwing knife (unless it is a throwing knife). Using | | | | material can cause it to draw moisture from the |
| a knife for any other purpose could permanently | | | | air and lead to rust. Instead, save your leather |
| damage the blade and cause the warranty to | | | | sheath for short-term use in the field, where it |
| become void. | | | | provides good protection from the elements. |
| You should also keep your knife sharp, for safety | | | | Oiling Your Hunting Knife |
| as well as efficiency. A sharp knife requires less | | | | To help fight the battle against rust, it's a good |
| force, reducing the likelihood of accidental injury. | | | | idea to keep your hunting knife oiled. Use an |
| Cleaning Your Hunting Knife | | | | all-purpose or firearm oil on the blade and, if you |
| Even if all you did was touch the blade with your | | | | have a folding knife, on the lock mechanism. |
| fingers, it's important to clean a hunting knife | | | | When oiling your knife: |
| every time it's used. The residual acid left behind | | | | - Avoid using too much oil, which will attract dirt |
| by fingerprints can corrode even the | | | | and other particles, making the knife feel gummy. |
| highest-quality metal. To clean a knife: | | | | - Oil only the blade, taking care not to get any on |
| - Wash it by hand with soap and water. | | | | the handle. This will cause a slippery grip, which is |
| - Use a soft cloth to dry it immediately, taking | | | | the last thing a hunter needs out in the field. |
| care not to scratch the blade. | | | | - You can, however, treat a wood handle with |
| - Never use strong chemical cleaners to remove | | | | special oils meant for wood, such as linseed. |
| tough stains, as these can damage the metal. | | | | A leather handle can be treated with mink oil or |
| Combine salt and vinegar and gently apply with a | | | | leather treatment products. There's no need to |
| clean cork, then wash with soap and water and | | | | treat handles made from rubber or artificial |
| dry. | | | | materials. |
| Storing Your Hunting Knife | | | | By properly cleaning and caring for your hunting |
| Your clean hunting knife should be stored in a | | | | knife, you can protect your investment and |
| humidity-free environment where it won't be | | | | ensure this essential tool will keep performing |
| bumped around by other objects. To keep a knife | | | | season after season. |