How to Care for a Scuba Knife

The scuba knife, or diving knife, is a useful tool for scuba divers. Diving knives are compact and fairly lightweight. The sharp point and blade makes the knife effective for general chopping and cutting. The serrated edge and large v-shaped serration towards the hilt are useful for cutting fishing line, weeds and other obstructions. These knives are an essential tool for all scuba divers.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Dry your scuba knife when not in use. Although many have coatings which protect them from rust and corrosion, it's still a good idea to avoid needless exposure to the elements--especially salt water.
2. Keep your knife clean. You may use your scuba knife for some messy tasks, and it's better for the knife to keep it as clean as possible.
3. Sharpen the knife regularly. This knife must be sharp in order to be functional, especially since you use it underwater where many tasks are twice as difficult to perform as on dry land. Use a sharpening stone--you can find them at hunting or sporting goods stores and Army Surplus shops.
4. Keep your scuba knife in a sheath when it is not in use. This is the last thing you want to lose when out at sea.

Tips & Warnings

• Many scuba knives have a titanium coating on the blade, which is helps protect the blade against corrosion. This is very useful, as this knife probably spends more time in the water than any other. Stainless steel is less costly, but also not as high quality.
• All divers should have at least one backup knife on their person while underwater. There's no telling what might happen or what dangers a diver may encounter.