CLEANING / LUBRICATION / RUST & CORROSION PREVENTION
All Leatherman® products are manufactured from 100% high-grade stainless steel (exception: screw bits for the tool adapter are made of tool steel). 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.
Depending on what your Leatherman® has been exposed to, there are several cleaning methods to consider.
- Cleaning can be done with a low viscosity oil (e.g. WD-40, Liquid Wrench, CRC 3-36), which helps force out moisture trapped in the joints.
- Buff stained surfaces with a polishing cloth or non-metallic abrasive (e.g., Scotchbrite pad or soft bristle brush).
- For pivoting or wear areas, use a PTFE / Teflon-based lubricant to make your tool function as smoothly as possible.
- If debris or sticky substances have accumulated between the blades, your Leatherman® may also be cleaned in a mild solution of detergent and water.
- To remove tar and similar substances, clean your Leatherman® with turpentine or other mineral spirits. Warning: acetone or brake cleaners may damage plastic components.
- Corrosion can occur in the absence of proper maintenance. Your Leatherman® product should be cleaned, dried, and re-lubricated periodically to inhibit rust and corrosion. This is especially true if your Leatherman® has been exposed to saltwater or marine environments. If so, rinse in fresh water, dry, and lubricate it with a light oil.
