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How to Polish Vintage Knives

Many vintage knives are quite valuable and that value can diminish exponentially if the knife is improperly cleaned or damaged as a result of cleaning attempts gone wrong. Once you decide that polishing your knife is something you want to do, practice on newer knives first to avoid damaging your vintage knife.

Things You'll Need

  • Lubricating oil
  • Soft cloths
  • Whet stone
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Instructions

    • 1

      Apply a few drops of lubricating oil to the blade. Rub the oil so it coats the entire blade, and let the oil sit for a few minutes. Place a drop or two of oil in the hinges if your knife is a folding knife.

    • 2

      Wipe the oil away from the blade with a soft cloth. If any rust or dirt remains, add additional oil, and allow it to sit again.

    • 3

      Sharpen the blade of the knife with a whet stone. Use quick strokes, sliding the blade from the handle end to the tip.

    • 4

      Wipe down the entire knife with a clean, soft cloth, and store it in a case.