Question: How do you prevent rust on Xacto Knife Blades & Razor blades

[MikeyNYC]

Anyone have some advice for me, I have been burning through blades like crazy, and while they aren't the most expensive items to replace it would be nice to get more life out of them. I would prefer not using a steel wool and messing with the original edge of the blade.

I have read that people using knifes in saltwater, typically rinse off in freshwater, then wipe on a petroleum-based lubricant (or anti-rusting agent). I will definitely not be using a "petroleum-based lubricant" in the tank, but can anyone recommend another reef safe solution that will perform the same function. Thanks, Mike

 

[Deanos]

I just toss them in the garbage.

 

[JHOV2324]

I actually bought a scapel....but i havent used it yet..i let you know how long it lasts

 

[Josh]

Xacto knives are made from carbon steel and will rust no matter what, just get a lot of them.

I buy razor blades for cleaning my glass by the hundred and throw them out after every use.

Medical grade scalpels are designed to be reusable (although due to hospital insurance and patient care changes they are now considered disposable). However, even if a scalpel, bone cutters, or tweezers are labeled "Stainless Steel" or "18-8" they will eventually rust for sure.

 

[CHEMCHEF]

there is a product called naval jelly that will get the rust off wthout the use of steel wool. but i dont know how to prevent it without an oil based compund

 

[MikeyNYC]

Thanks for chiming in everyone. I have been pretty much doing the same, one time and throw away. I'm not really that cheap that I care about cost involved, just feel like I'm wasting a perfectly sharp blade.

I have one scalpel and it's lasted a few weeks now without rust. I guess I will dispose of the xacto stuff and try using scalpel knifes going forward. Thanks everyone, Mike

 

[fernandokng]

Are xacto knives the items preferred as a propagating tool?

 

[MikeyNYC]

I have been using them for a while, but the blades are a little too expensive in my opinion for a one time use. I would try to find a scalpel, last longer same amount of control over the blade.

Just checked online for pricing on disposable scalpels and its not really all that bad.

 

[fernandokng]

I was thinking of using a plastic knife (the ones you eat with), and sanding the blades down so it's nice, clean and sharp. Since it's plastic, it's re-usable.

Haven't tried it yet, but doesn't seem like a bad idea. Right?