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HOME -
MAINTENANCE
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Rust and Corrosion
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All Leatherman products are manufactured from
100% high-grade stainless steel.
(Exception: Screw
bits for the tool adapter are made of tool
steel.) But stainless steel is not rust proof;
it is corrosion resistant. Depending on the mix of
metal alloys, stainless steels may be highly corrosion
resistant and relatively soft
(like kitchen
flatware), or they may be somewhat corrosion
resistant and quite hard. Our products are fabricated
from the latter type, so your tool components are
strong and the knives retain a sharp cutting edge.
Consequently, corrosion can occur in the absence of
proper maintenance. Your Leatherman product should be
cleaned, dried and re-oiled periodically to inhibit
rust and corrosion. This is especially true if you use
it in a damp or marine environment. After
cleaning, re-oil pivoting areas with a light machine
or penetrating type oil
(such as WD-40).
Buff stained surfaces with a polishing cloth or
non-metallic abrasive
(e.g., Scotchbrite pad
or soft bristle brush).
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Blade Sharpening
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Leatherman products feature knife blades that may be
straight-edged, serrated or both. Sharpening methods
vary depending on the type of knife in your Leatherman
product. Note that serrated edges should not be sharpened
in the same manner as straight edges. Straight-edged
blades can be sharpened using any standard equipment,
including whetstones, rods and various kits. To
sharpen a serrated blade, be sure to use a sharpening
system specifically designed to accommodate serrated
edges. A proper sharpening method will maintain the
curvature of the serrations. Sharpen serrated blades
only on the edged side; sharpening the flat
(back)
side of the knife will cause the serrations to wear
away, reducing the knife's effectiveness.
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Cleaning Methods
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Depending on what your Leatherman has
been exposed to, there are several cleaning
methods to consider.
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If your Leatherman has been exposed to
salt
water or marine environments,
it should be thoroughly rinsed in
fresh water, dried and lubricated
with a water-displacing product. If
stains
or rust spots appear, refer
to the Rust and Corrosion section
above for removal tips.
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If debris
or sticky substances have
accumulated between the blades, your
Leatherman may also be cleaned
in a mild solution of detergent and
water.
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To remove
tar
and similar substances,
clean your Leatherman with
turpentine or other mineral spirits.
Do not use chlorine products.
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After
cleaning, dry your Leatherman and
apply a light machine oil or a
water-displacing product
(WD-40)
to
force out moisture trapped in the
joints. This also helps protect the
tool from further corrosion and
sticking.
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Need more information? Also see our
FAQ section, or
e-mail your unanswered question to the Leatherman Tool
Group warranty department at
toolwarranty@leatherman.com.
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