Maintaining my GB splitting maul

[Col Defender]

This is an elementary question, I know. But what is the best way to clean up my GB and keep surface rust off it? I'd like to keep it as near perfect looking and functioning as I can, but every time I use it, it seems to develop a little surface rust. No pitting, not dull at all, just doesn't look as good as it did.

There must be a quick and effective way to do this and maybe I need to clean it up and oil it every time I use it? Any particular kind of oil?

Than ks in advance..

Steve

 

[moose11872]

I have the splitting axe #445.
I usually wipe it with a couple dabs of honing oil. I only do it every so often....light surface rust shouldn't harm it at all and the tool self cleans with use.

 

[Col Defender]

the tool self cleans with use.

Yes! I used it this morning and it already looks better than when I started! I should split more wood
Thanks

 

[M3mphis]

FortyTwoBlades/Benjamin always very highly recommends Renaissance wax. I can't say that I've ever used it, but Benjamin knows his stuff and tests a lot of product. It is available on his website baryonyxknife.com under Sharpening & Maintenance.

 

[jpeeler]

If there's a spot of rust I notice, I might hit it with a brass brush, then use just regular machine oil, very lightly, to create a moisture barrier.

 

[Square_peg]

.....maybe I need to clean it up and oil it every time I use it? Any particular kind of oil?

Yes you do if you don't want it to rust. WD-40 will do. Boeshield is better for long term storage. I use a mix of beeswax, BLO and turpentine. Similar to whats in Renaissance wax I think.

FortyTwoBlades/Benjamin always very highly recommends Renaissance wax. I can't say that I've ever used it, but Benjamin knows his stuff and tests a lot of product. It is available on his website baryonyxknife.com under Sharpening & Maintenance.

Good call.