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Neill Knives are hand-made from metal, wood, leather, antler/horn, and other natural materials. With proper care and maintenance, your knife will last you a lifetime.
High carbon, tool, and mild steels are not stainless; they will rust. Keep the blade and any steel fittings clean and oiled. 3-in-1 oil or Hoppes No.9 gun oil will work fine. While the blade has been hardened and tempered for toughness and edge retention, it will become dull with use, and will have to be sharpened from time to time.
Wooden handles and any antler/horn inserts and fittings have been treated with either Tru-oil or beeswax and mineral oil for protection and to enhance the wood’s natural beauty. They should be re-treated from time to time.
Bull-hide sheathes have been treated with mink oil to preserve and waterproof the leather. They can be cleaned with saddle soap or any natural leather cleaning product. Once clean, reapply mink oil, neatsfoot oil, or beeswax polish to keep the leather weatherproof and to protect your knife.
Knives are tools. Keep yours clean, sharp, and oiled. Take care of it, and it will take care of you. And maybe one day, you’ll pass it on.