Care & Feeding
Welcome to the APX Knives Family!
Thank you for choosing an APX Knife! We take pride in crafting our American made tactical knives with precision and care, ensuring they are ready for your toughest challenges. To keep your knife performing at its best, we’ve put together this guide with essential care tips. With proper maintenance, your APX Knife will be a reliable companion for years to come.
Maintaining the Blade Coating
Most APX Knives feature a durable black traction coating designed to protect the blade from corrosion and wear. This high-quality coating is applied to withstand rugged use, but over time, areas like the cutting edge may show signs of wear due to contact with hard materials. This is normal and does not affect the knife’s performance. To maintain the coating, avoid scraping the blade against abrasive surfaces like metal, and clean it gently with a soft cloth after use.
Caring for the Steel
Our knives are primarily made from 1095 high-carbon steel, chosen for its excellent edge retention and toughness. While this steel is incredibly durable, it can develop rust if not properly cared for, especially in humid or wet environments. To prevent corrosion:
- After each use, wipe the blade clean with a dry cloth to remove moisture and debris.
- Apply a thin layer of protective oil to the blade, focusing on the cutting edge and any exposed steel areas, before storing it for an extended period.
- Store your knife in a dry, well-ventilated area to avoid moisture buildup.
We apply a protective oil to each blade before shipping to ensure it arrives in pristine condition. Regular maintenance will keep your knife ready for your next adventure.
Cleaning Your Kydex Sheath
APX Knives often come with Kydex sheaths, custom-molded to fit your specific knife model. To keep your sheath in good condition:
- If the sheath gets dirty, remove the knife and rinse the sheath with lukewarm water. The drainage hole at the bottom allows water to flow through easily.
- For tougher dirt on the exterior, use a mild soap and a soft cloth to clean the surface, then rinse thoroughly.
- Allow the sheath to air dry completely before reinserting the knife to prevent moisture buildup.
Note that Kydex sheaths are designed specifically for your knife model and may not fit other knives. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers, as they can damage the sheath’s surface.
Keeping Your Blade Sharp
Each APX Knife comes with a factory-sharpened edge, ideal for rugged field use. While our knives don’t require a razor-sharp edge for most tasks, we understand the importance of maintaining a reliable cutting surface. If your blade dulls over time, we offer a free sharpening service for the original purchaser. Contact us at hello@apxknives.com or +1 901-730-6800 to arrange sharpening. Please note that shipping costs to and from APX Knives are the responsibility of the customer.
Enjoy Your APX Knife!
We’re honored to have crafted this knife for you, and we hope it serves you well on every journey. By following these care tips, your American made tactical knives will remain in top condition for years of dependable use. If you have any questions about maintaining your knife, feel free to reach out via our Contact page.
