Storing knives long term?

[Ifrit617]

Hey guys,

I have two knives that are period correct to the turn of the 19th century that I only wear once or twice a year to primitive events. I use my other knives for the rest of the year. They are forged carbon steel blades that are very prone to rust due to the pitting from forging. I love the knives and don't want to get rid of them, but I don't want to have to oil them and buff them out with steel wool every month. Is there any way I can store them so that I don't need to do this? Or is this just wishful thinking?

How do you all store your rarely used knives?

Jon

[Adam]

I've had good success with paste wax or Breakfree for long-term storage of guns and gun parts.  I imagine both of those would work on knives too.

[_Jon_]

Wax or oil is the only way I know to do it.

[jimjimmysticks]

hi my I ask adam what is break free?thanks jimjimmysticks

[CaptainBeaky]

Your best best is probably if you can get hold of it - commonly used for protection of blades in storage.

Oh, and
(edit - links switched to bold)

[Adam]

Break free is a relatively thick oil that's usually used for cleaning and lubricating gun parts.  It's not as runny as lighter oils (like 3 In One) but not as thick as grease.  They have several types that I think are fairly similar.  I've always used CLP.  They also make a "Collector" version that's supposed to be better for long-term storage.  I haven't used that one so I'm not sure of the specifics.

[jimjimmysticks]

great thank you that help hope I can find it up here

[bowtarist]

Don't store them in leather sheaths.  clean and oil before putting up, take out of sheath, possibly a jumbo ziplock with one or two of those "do not eat" silica packs in the bag too.  Good luck, dpg

[bubby]

thoser gun socks that keep the barrel from fusting should do the trick, one would do a bunch of knifes

[Ifrit617]

thoser gun socks that keep the barrel from fusting should do the trick, one would do a bunch of knifes

Thats what I'm planning bub, got two special knife sleeves that I ordered and I'll put on some heavy break free CLP... Should do the trick.

Thanks for the help guys.

Jon

[Adam]

Oh, one more thing.  You probably know this, but Break free, like any other oil can penetrate and discolor wood so you'll want to make sure you keep it off the knife scales.