Knife Instructions

WALKER KNIFE CO. INSTRUCTIONS AND CARE TIPS.

Everything you need to know about your new Walker Knife Co. purchase. Thanks for the support! You're going to love it.

SAFETY FIRST!

Kydex sheaths have great long lasting retention when designed properly. As a result however it can also seem difficult to draw the knife at first. In time, you'll get the hang of it and come to appreciate the way the sheath holds the knife.

IT IS VERY IMPORTANT that you never grasp the sheath with your off hand anywhere above the retention screw when drawing the knife. The knife can exit the sheath side above this screw. 

Watch this video and learn about how to safely draw a knife. Practice makes perfect. Always be sure you get a secure snap when re-inserting the knife in the sheath. This video demonstrates the process with a River Knife, however the principal is the same for All Weather Trackers - separate video coming soon.

MOUNTING YOUR RIVER KNIFE

For starters there are several ways to attach your new River Knife to your PFD. One method is using the supplied paracord to attach to your shoulder strap or any other secure location. The other method is using the optional PFD lash tab clip to attach your knife to any standard PFD lash tab. 

 

The Paracord Method

The PFD Lash Tab Method:

[video coming soon, reach out if you have questions in the meantime!]

  • You will attach the clip to your PFD before securing the knife sheath to the clip.
  • Step 1 - Remove the Torx screw, lock washer and pass thru post that is securing the clip to the mounting bracket. Note the orientation of these parts before removal as they need to be reassembled in the same fashion.
  • Step 2 - Insert the clip into the lash tab on your PFD.
  • Step 3 - Hook the mounting bracket slot back onto the clip. Note that the arrow on the bracket points in the direction of the tip of the knife.
  • Step 4 - Reassemble the Torx screw, lock washer and pass thru post securing the clip and mounting bracket. Keeping a finger on the back of the pass thru post, ensure that the Torx screw is tightened enough to completely flatten the lock washer.
  • Step 5 - The mounting bracket is now secure to your PFD. Remove the 4 Torx screws from the sheath mounting points, leave the rubber washers in place.
  • Step 6 - Position your knife on the bracket and insert the screws though the eyelets on your sheath securing the knife to the bracket.
  • Step 7 - Ensure everything is secure, and the knife and sheath still function as they should. You’re good to go!

 

ATTACHING A BELT CLIP TO A RIVER KNIFE OR ALL WEATHER TRACKER (video coming soon) 

  • Step 1 - Remove any paracord or other accessories from your knife sheath.
  • Step 2 - Remove the 4 torx screws from the belt clip, leaving the rubber washers in place. 
  • Step 3 - Position the bracket on the sheath
  • Step 4 - Reinsert the 4 torx screws and tighten firmly. 
  • Step 5 - Attach to belt and enjoy!

KNIFE CARE

Never wash your knife or sheath in a dishwasher!!! The high temperature of a dishwasher can destroy epoxy bonds and devastate kydex sheaths. 

It's important to understand that stainless is not stain-never. If you take care of your knife it will last for decades. The River Knife in 440C and the All Weather Tracker in S30V require little maintenance. You can ensure your knife stays in top shape by always putting away dry after any adventure. It's best not to leave a knife in a wet sheath for prolonged periods of time. That said, these steels are superior in corrosion resistance and you need not worry about them when in the field or on the river. 

When storing your knife for long periods of time, though not all that necessary with stainless steels, you can apply a very thin coat of oil to the blade for ultimate protection from oxidization. Apply and then wipe dry, it should not look wet after application.

Sharpening

Sharpen using any preferred method but always avoid mechanical sharpeners like belts or wheels that may generate friction or heat along the cutting edge. Heat can kill the temper easily along the fine edge. I sharpen all knives on a wet stone before they leave the shop. Please reach out if you feel you need assistance getting your knife back to hair poppin' sharp!

Handle Maintenance

All of my knife handles are either G10, Carbon Fiber or Micarta. The maintenance is all the same. I rough finish my handles to 150 grit for maximum grip in wet conditions. If you have a scratch or ding you want to remove you can simply gently hand sand with 150 grit paper. Avoid scratching the tang of the knife by sanding lengthwise if you are sanding near the tang.

If your handle starts to look "dry," has lost some of its vibrant color, or after sanding you need to apply oil or wax. I use mineral oil which can be purchased in any grocery store in the first aid section. Mineral oil is food safe and provides protection from the elements. Another great option is a product called "Axe Wax" from www.axewax.us. Axe Wax can be used on the blade as you would use an oil as well. Over time your handle material will become more and more impregnated with oils from use and require less care.

Kydex Sheath Care

Your sheath is made from Kydex which is a thermoplastic. The sheath was molded to your knife after being cooked to about 315 degrees. Your sheath should not ever be run through a dishwasher, especially a commercial washer, that reaches high temperatures. The best way to wash your sheath is using mildly warm water and soap by hand. Though it would take extreme circumstances, theoretically if your sheath was left on the dash of your vehicle on a 100 degree day in the hot sun it may reach temps high enough to become malleable again. Generally avoid extreme heat. 

Need help?

If your knife needs care beyond your comfort level please don't hesitate to contact me. We'll set up a spa day for your blade and get it back to top shape.