How to Maintain and Sharpen Your Premium Knives

Got a quality knife in your pocket or gear bag? Whether it’s a Microtech Knife, Protech Knife, Heretic Knife, or McNees Knife, these aren’t just tools — they’re investments. If you take care of them properly, they’ll stay razor-sharp, reliable, and smooth for years.

Why Knife Care Matters

Taking care of your knives isn’t just about keeping them shiny. It’s about performance, safety, and longevity. Here’s why it’s worth the effort:

• Prevents rust, corrosion, and grime buildup

• Keeps the action smooth and consistent

• Protects internal parts from dust, lint, and grit

• Maintains a razor-sharp edge for better performance

• Saves money by extending the knife’s lifespan
  
  

How to Clean and Lubricate Your Knife

Before you start sharpening, make sure your knife is clean. A dirty blade dulls faster and makes sharpening less effective.

1. Disassemble (Only If It’s Safe to Do So)
Some knives allow partial disassembly for deep cleaning, but not all. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions. For brands like Microtech or McNees, partial or no disassembly is usually recommended. If you’re unsure, stick to surface cleaning.

2. Wipe Down the Blade and Handle
Use a microfiber cloth and mild cleaner or rubbing alcohol. Be careful not to cut yourself, and pay close attention to tight areas around the pivot or handle where grime collects.

3. Lubricate Moving Parts
Once clean, apply a few small drops of quality knife oil to the pivot or opening mechanism. Open and close the knife a few times to distribute the oil evenly.
Don’t overdo it — too much oil can attract dust and debris.

Sharpening 101 — Keeping That Edge Razor Sharp

Even the best knives need a touch-up now and then. Here’s how to sharpen properly without damaging your blade.

Know Your Blade Geometry
Premium knives use high-end steels like M390, Elmax, or Böhler, which hold an edge longer but need the right angle to sharpen correctly. Most knives perform best at around a 20-degree angle per side. Stick to the factory angle to maintain performance and edge retention.

Use the Right Sharpening Tools
Skip cheap pull-through sharpeners — they strip too much metal and can ruin your blade. Instead, use ceramic rods, whetstones, diamond sharpeners, or a guided sharpening system. These tools protect the steel and help maintain consistent results. Sharpeners like the Worksharp line are an excellent choice

Sharpen with Patience
If your blade is dull, start with a coarse stone, then move to medium and fine grits. Use smooth, even strokes on both sides. Wipe away metal dust frequently to prevent micro-burrs. Consistency is key — rushing leads to uneven edges and dull spots.

After-Sharpening Knife Care

Sharpening isn’t the final step — finishing work is just as important.

Clean Away Metal Dust
After sharpening, wipe the blade with a microfiber cloth. If needed, use a dab of lubricant to remove any leftover filings or residue.

Lightly Oil the Blade
Apply a thin layer of protective oil to guard against moisture and rust. Knives like Microtech, Protech, and Heretic benefit from this step — their finishes stay cleaner and smoother longer.

Store It Right
Keep your knife in a dry pouch or hard case. Avoid leather sheaths for long-term storage since leather traps moisture. Store it in a cool, dry spot — not your truck dashboard or near humidity.

Everyday Knife Care Tips

• Don’t cut metal, bone, or stone — that’s a fast way to wreck your edge.

• Always wipe the blade clean after food prep or wet use.

• Keep knives away from salt, moisture, or chemicals.

• Use a leather or canvas strop occasionally to refresh the edge.

• Open and close folding knives smoothly — don’t force them.

How Often Should You Sharpen?

For most users, sharpening every three to four months is perfect. If you use your knife daily or for heavy work, sharpen more often. Between full sharpenings, use a strop to keep it cutting cleanly.

FAQs

Can high-end knives like Microtech or Protech rust?
Yes. Even the best stainless steels can corrode without care. Lightly oil the blade and store it dry to prevent rust.

Can I use a pull-through sharpener?
Not recommended. Pull-through sharpeners remove too much metal and can mess up your knife’s edge geometry. Stick to whetstones or guided sharpening systems instead.

What’s the best way to store my knives?
A padded case or dry pouch is ideal. Avoid long-term leather storage and always keep your knives away from humidity.