subject: Removing Rust From Bowie Knives [print this page] Owning and using a knife have been a part of human life for millennia. However, since the dawn of metal blades, several things have had ill effects on knives. While there are numerous things that can occur, such as bending, scratching, dulling and more, rust is perhaps the most insidious threat. If your Bowie knife has become rusty, then it is only a matter of time before it is rendered useless to you. How do you clean rust from your blade, though?
Actually, there are numerous options open to you. You can choose to use a "holistic" option, or go with a chemical cleaner. Interestingly, many natural options have very good results, except in the case of severe rust buildup on your blade. One of the first things that you can try is white vinegar. This substance has been used as a cleaning compound since wine was first invented. Simply soak a clean rag in white vinegar, wrap the rag around the knife blade and leave it overnight. When you unwrap the blade the next morning, simply wipe it down with a clean cloth or sponge and warm water. Dry it thoroughly and you should find that any light rust is gone.
Another option you can try is using an onion. Onions have acid in their juice, which can remove rust quite quickly. Choose an onion large enough to cover the blade of your Bowie knife, and then cut with a sawing motion through the entire onion. The juices should turn brown/red as the rust is removed. When you finish, clean the blade with warm water and then dry it thoroughly.
Potatoes are also good options for cleaning rust from a knife blade. If you can find a potato large enough for the blade of your Bowie knife, simply insert the blade into the potato (lengthwise) and leave it overnight. When you pull it out the next morning, the rust should be largely gone. Clean the potato residue from the knife and dry it completely.
Of course, some rust is simply too severe to use such options. In these cases, you will have to resort to something like a polishing compound used in conjunction with a chemical rust remover. There are several different formulations from which you can choose, but opt for one that does its job gently. Harsh chemicals can have a harmful effect on the blade of your Bowie knife.
