How to Repair Pocket Knives

Open the pocket knife to inspect the quality and state of the blade and handle. If there is rust on the blade, it can be cleaned off using steel wool. The eBlade Store website explains that minimal rust can be removed while substantial amounts of rust require further treatment.

Submerge the entire knife in a small plastic container that contains gun or lubricating oil to remove the rust. The length of time the knife must soak depends on its individual state. Soaking in oil can also help to restore and open an older knife with a blade that is rusted shut.

Use sharpening stones to sharpen the knife blade sufficiently. The Cutler's Cove website explains that a sharp knife is safer to use because it is less likely to slip or get stuck during use. Once the knife is sharpened, clean the blade as well as the folding joints with a soft toothbrush to remove any debris.

Replace the pocket knife blade or handle if necessary. A pocket knife can be dismantled by using an awl and small hammer to remove the rivets in the handle.

Rebuild the pocket knife by placing the blade in the handle shaft. Apply a thin layer of epoxy glue on the inside lip of the pocket knife handle. Press both sides of the handle together, apply epoxy glue to the tips of the new rivets and then hammer the rivets into place.