Hand-Forged Damascus Folding Knife | Cowboy Pocket Knife with Premium Stag Handle & Brass Frame

Closing a folding knife safely requires understanding the locking mechanism. Since your Handmade Damascus Folding Knife uses a Liner Lock, the process is straightforward but requires care to keep your fingers clear of the blade path.

Step-by-Step Guide for a Liner Lock:

1. Grip the Handle: Hold the knife firmly in your dominant hand, ensuring your fingers are wrapped around the handle and not resting near the blade or the exposed edge.

2. Locate the Lock: The Liner Lock is a thin strip of metal (the "liner") that springs inward to sit under the back end of the blade when the knife is open. It is visible inside the handle, often near the base of the blade.

3. Disengage the Lock: Use the thumb of your dominant hand (or the index finger of your non-dominant hand) to firmly press the metal liner sideways, away from the blade spine. You will feel a slight "click" as the lock disengages.

4. Fold the Blade: Once the liner is pushed out of the way, the blade is free to move. Gently push the blade toward the closed position, keeping your fingers clear.

5. Final Snap: Carefully guide the blade until it is fully nestled inside the handle. Always ensure the lock re-engages in the closed position to prevent accidental opening.

⚠️ Safety Note: Never try to close the knife with excessive force or rely on gravity. Always maintain a firm grip and guide the blade deliberately and slowly.

Proper cleaning and maintenance are essential for preserving the beauty and longevity of your premium Damascus steel pocket knife, especially since high-carbon steel (like the 1095/15N20 blend) is susceptible to rust and patina.

Cleaning Procedure:

1. Immediate Care: After any use, especially contact with food (acidic or moist), wipe the blade clean immediately.

2. Disengage and Rinse: With the blade open, rinse the blade and handle under lukewarm running water. Avoid dishwashers, harsh detergents, or soaking the knife.

3. Gentle Scrub: Use a mild dish soap and a soft cloth, cotton swab, or soft toothbrush to gently scrub the blade and, crucially, the inside of the handle and the locking mechanism. Debris in the liner lock can cause it to fail.

4. Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse one last time to remove all soap residue.

5. Thorough Drying: This is the most critical step for Damascus high-carbon steel. Use a clean, dry cloth to wipe the entire knife. Then, let the knife air dry fully in the open position. You can use a can of compressed air to blast moisture out of the lock and pivot.

Oiling and Preservation:

Once completely dry, apply a protective coating:

• Blade: Apply a small amount of non-acidic oil (like food-grade mineral oil for food-contact, or gun oil/knife oil otherwise) to the entire Damascus folding blade.

• Pivot: Apply a drop of high-quality lubricating oil (like Nano-Oil or Rem Oil) directly into the pivot point and the liner lock mechanism. Open and close the knife a few times to work the oil in, ensuring smooth operation.

The best place to purchase a quality folding knife, particularly an artisan piece like a Stag handle knife or a hand-forged model, depends on your priorities:

Recommendation: For a hand-forged, high-spec knife with a unique Stag antler handle, purchasing from a reputable specialized online store that details the forging process and materials (like yours) guarantees authenticity and quality control.

Your knife comes with a beautiful handmade cowhide leather cross-draw sheath, which is a traditional and highly functional carry style popular among those who favor the classic Cowboy pocket knife aesthetic.

Wearing the Cross-Draw Sheath:

1. Sheath Placement: The cross-draw sheath is designed to be worn on your non-dominant side (e.g., on the left side if you are right-handed).

2. Belt Angle: Thread your belt through the loop. The sheath should sit securely on your belt at an angled position (usually facing forward slightly) near the 10 o'clock or 11 o'clock position (for a right-handed person).

3. The Draw (The "Cross-Draw"): To draw the knife, your dominant hand reaches across your body (hence "cross-draw"). Your hand should naturally reach the handle, allowing you to grip it while the sheath holds the blade.

4. Benefits:

   • Accessibility while Seated: It is far easier to access the knife when sitting in a vehicle or on a horse compared to a traditional hip sheath.

   • Concealment: It often allows for better concealment under a jacket or coat than a side-mounted sheath.

   • Classic Look: It complements the rugged, traditional style of a Cowboy pocket knife and your Stag handle knife.