A fixed blade knife can last you for years if it's properly maintained and cared for. In this blog post, we'll cover the basics of how to maintain your fixed blade knives so you can enjoy them for years to come!

Cleaning Your Knife

The first step in maintaining your fixed blade knife is cleaning it. This will remove any dirt or debris that has accumulated on the blade and handle while also preventing rust from forming. Here are some tips to get you started:

• Begin by removing any materials stuck to the blade using a damp cloth and gentle pressure (e.g., wood chips, sap). If necessary, use a soft brush like an old toothbrush to dislodge any stubborn pieces.

• Rinse off the residue with warm water, taking care not to immerse the handle in water for too long as this could cause it to swell and become loose from the blade. Alternatively, if you’re dealing with more stubborn materials then try soaking it in warm soapy water instead!

• After rinsing/soaking, wipe off the knife with a dry cloth before applying some vegetable oil or mineral oil onto the surface (this will help protect against corrosion).

• Finally, store your knife in a dry place away from direct sunlight; never leave it lying around where moisture could cause further damage!

Sharpening Your Knife

Sharpening is an important part of keeping your fixed blade knife functioning properly – but don’t overdo it either! Remember that sharpening too often can actually dull the edge faster than not sharpening it at all; try and keep your sharpening sessions down to once or twice per month max. When ready, here’s what you should do:

• Begin by preparing your work area; make sure that all tools are securely clamped into place before beginning sharpening (use a clamp if necessary).

• Select a stone or file that best fits suiting material and angle of bevel (recommended angles range from 20°-22°). Most stones don’t need lubrication when used on steel blades but make sure to read up on manufacturer instructions first!

• Use firm pressure throughout each stroke but take care not to bear down too heavily as this could damage both stone & knife alike! Make sure that only one side of bevel contacts stone during each pass – alternating between sides every 10 strokes or so.

• After every few strokes check work progress using light reflection off edge line; look out for burrs/debris along edge itself as they indicate improper sharpening technique (if present repeat process until gone)!

• Finally finish off by stropping edge against leather strip – this will help remove any remaining burr/debris left over after sharpening process is complete.

Additional Maintenance Tips:

• Don't leave your knife exposed outdoors for extended periods of time as this may result in rusting (especially if made from carbon steel). Apply protective oils regularly & clean coated blades with mild soap solution before wiping off excess water afterwards!

• Wipe off dirt/dust build up from handle & tang grooves carefully using damp cloth/toothbrush – this will ensure better fitting next time knife needs reassembling together again! Additionally check all screws/rivets periodically making sure they remain tight & secure (fix them immediately if loose!).

• Take extra precautions when handling pointed edges; make sure children do not have access as they may accidentally cut themselves while playing around with its various features & functions! And finally always stay vigilant when transporting knives in public places following local laws accordingly – never leave them unattended even for short periods of time!