So, If steel knife blades are not porous why oil them?

 Oiling steel knife blades, even if they're not porous, is a crucial step in preventing rust and corrosion
. Here's why:

• Protective Barrier: Oil creates a thin, protective layer on the blade surface that acts as a barrier, preventing moisture and oxygen from coming into direct contact with the steel. This is especially important for carbon steel knives, which are more susceptible to rust compared to stainless steel.
• Disruption of Oxidation: When water and oxygen come into contact with iron, a chemical reaction called oxidation occurs, leading to rust formation. Oil disrupts this process, preventing the breakdown of the metal structure.
• Maintaining Appearance: Oiling helps preserve the knife's aesthetic appeal by preventing discoloration, staining, and dulling.
• Enhanced Performance: A properly oiled blade experiences reduced friction during cutting, which contributes to maintaining a sharp edge for a longer period.
• Protection for Moving Parts: For folding knives, oiling the pivot points and hinges ensures smooth action and prevents debris buildup that can impede the mechanism. 

Important considerations:

• Food-Safe Oil: For kitchen knives and pocket knifes as well as hunting knives that come into contact with food, it's essential to use food-grade Blade oil or specialized knife oil like Horace Whitlock's Food Grade Knife Blade Cleaner and Lubricant.
• Avoid using cooking oils, as they can turn rancid and leave a sticky residue.
• Cleaning and Drying First: Before oiling, ensure the knife is thoroughly cleaned and completely dry, as trapped moisture under the oil can lead to rust.
• Even, Thin Coat: Apply a few drops of oil to a clean cloth and wipe it evenly along the blade, then wipe off any excess. 

By incorporating oiling into your knife maintenance routine, you can significantly extend the lifespan of your knives and ensure they remain in top condition for years to come. 

As Horace Whitlock was quoted during an interview "Don't just sharpen the blade........Maintain the knife"

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