Thread: Scales

Howdy all,

I know whenever someone new comes on the site they always ask what's the best oil to use on my blade to prevent it from rusting.

I wanted to know if there was any special care any of you take with your scales. I know plastic is not such a big problem, but what about things like bone or horn or even ivory. Is there any special treatment you guys use to keep them pristine?

I know the basic don't get them wet make sure they are dry but like I said is this all there is to it?

Looking forward to hearing what you guys have to say!

Every now and again I treat horn scales with neatsfoot oil. It completely replenishes old dry horn scales to their original form if soaked overnight. Otherwise a light application and a buffing maybe once a year or so.

It can be done on bone, but I would not recommend it as they can develop oil patches, as can ivory. I would recommend renaissance wax on bone and ivory, but I dont believe it is necessary. A very fine abrasive, even toothpaste will quickly bring out the shine in dull ivory.

Very thin Ivory like the kind used in scales is prone to cracking and I always treat with some oil. I use walnut oil. Wipe on and leave for about 20 minutes and then wipe off. I do that a couple times a year. The neatsfoot is good also.