Care & Maintenance Guide

Built for use. Maintained with intent.
Iron Ethos knives are made for daily carry, field use, and the conditions that come with both. Proper care helps preserve performance, limit corrosion, and keep your knife ready over time.

General Care

  • After each use, wipe the blade and handle clean with a soft cloth. If needed, use warm water and mild soap to remove dirt, residue, oils, or other material from the surface.
  • Always dry your knife completely after cleaning. Stainless steel offers corrosion resistance, not corrosion immunity. Moisture, sweat, salt, acids, food residue, and other corrosive materials can cause staining or corrosion if left on the blade or hardware.
  • Apply a light coat of knife oil or mineral oil to the blade when needed, especially after exposure to moisture, salt, or humid environments. Use only a small amount and wipe away any excess.

Handle Materials

G10 and Micarta Handles

  • G10 and Micarta handles can be cleaned with a soft cloth, warm water, and mild soap when needed. Avoid prolonged soaking, harsh chemicals, bleach, or abrasive cleaners.
  • Micarta may darken slightly with oils, moisture, and regular handling. This is a normal characteristic of the material and is not considered a defect.

Folding Knives

Pivot and Action Maintenance

  • For folding models, keep the pivot, lock area, and handle interior free of lint, dust, sand, and debris.
  • Keep the pivot area clean and lightly lubricated. One small drop of quality knife oil is usually enough. Open and close the knife several times to distribute the oil, then wipe away any excess.

Fixed Blades Knives

  • Fixed blades are straightforward by design, but they still require regular care. After use, clean the blade, handle, and exposed hardware, then dry everything completely before storage.
  • If your fixed blade has been exposed to rain, sweat, saltwater, soil, food residue, field debris, or other corrosive materials, clean and oil it as soon as possible.
  • Do not store a wet or dirty knife in its sheath. Sheaths can trap moisture against the blade and accelerate corrosion. For long-term storage, clean and oil the blade first, then store it in a dry environment.

Hardware and Disassembly

  • Check screws, pocket clips, and hardware periodically. If anything becomes loose, tighten carefully with the correct tool. Do not overtighten.
  • We do not recommend full disassembly unless you are experienced and understand the construction of the knife. Improper disassembly or reassembly may affect performance and warranty coverage.

Sharpening

  • A sharp knife is safer and more effective than a dull one. Maintain the edge regularly using an appropriate sharpening system, stone, or strop.
  • Avoid aggressive sharpening unless necessary. Removing too much material can shorten the life of the blade or alter the intended edge geometry.
  • If you are not comfortable sharpening your knife, we recommend working with a qualified sharpening professional.

Storage

  • Store your knife in a clean, dry place. Before long-term storage, wipe the blade clean, apply a light protective coat of oil, and make sure the knife is fully dry.
  • Avoid storing knives in damp garages, vehicles, toolboxes, or sealed environments where moisture can build up.

What Not to Do

  • Iron Ethos knives are designed primarily as cutting tools. Avoid use outside the knife’s intended design, including excessive impact, lateral force, or use as a general leverage tool.
  • Do not put your knife in a dishwasher. Do not use harsh chemicals, bleach, or abrasive cleaners. Do not expose your knife to prolonged moisture, saltwater, or corrosive substances without cleaning it afterward.
  • Normal wear, coating marks, scratches, material darkening, clip wear, and handle wear are expected with use and are not considered defects.

Need Help?

If your knife has a performance issue, damaged hardware, or a question related to warranty coverage, contact Iron Ethos before attempting major repair or disassembly.
Email: info@iron-ethos.com

For coverage details, review our Warranty Policy page.