What To Do First With New Knife

[stevec038]

Good Morning,Good Afternoon, Good Evening,
After reading several good reviews and recommendations of Mora Knives, I bought one and received it today. Frost Mora #1, carbon steel, red birch handle, finger guard and sheath. I was going to take it fishing with me tomorrow and then wondered--what would you do first with this knife before using it? I know I need to touch up the blade and a few other things, but after all the years of experience with these knives the members of BushcraftUK have, what would you do before you put it to work? Thanks for your replies in advance.

 

[Draven]

First thing I did when I got my carbon mora was soak the blade in vinegar! Before even sharpening, as the vinegar can take off a fine edge IIRC. I played around a bit too, buried it in chopped onions to get a slightly more interesting pattern . . . but I think this is the most important first steps for carbon blades, especially if you'll be taking it fishing, as it should help prevent rust. Secondly, sharpen, thirdly oil!
If you'll be using it with a firesteel, it wouldn't hurt to square the spine a bit with a file to help it throw better sparks

Pete

 

[Hoodoo]

You may notice a lot of little striations in the bevel from their grinding process. I would smooth the bevel until those striations are gone.

 

[stevec038]

Thank you Draven and Hoodoo. I was planning on sticking the blade into a fresh potatoe and leaving it for a few days. Works great, patina is never the same twice. Also the oiling is routine for me with any knife I use fishing. Anybody else?

 

[Pignut]

As above withg the patina, also if you have a plastic sheath make sure the drain hole is "Unblocked" one of mine was covered in swarf. Oil with food oil if you are preping fish and if the edge feels ok I would not bother touching it up.......................................... Ok ok yes I would

 

[jojo]

Put a new handle on it, make a new sheath, cut something....but not the pink things at the end of your arm.....ok, ok I know what to do, go put my head in sand...:sulkoff: