Question 1

What makes a blade steel “good”?

Accepted Answer

A great blade steel balances three qualities:
• edge retention (how long it stays sharp)
• toughness (resistance to chipping)
• corrosion resistance
Different steels emphasize different strengths.

Question 2

How often should I clean my folding knife?

Accepted Answer

If you carry your knife daily, a light cleaning every few weeks is ideal. If the knife has been used around food, dirt, or sticky materials, cleaning it right away helps maintain smooth operation and prevents buildup inside the pivot.

Question 3

Are knives made in the USA better?

Accepted Answer

The United States has a long tradition of knife making and produces many outstanding knives. American manufacturers are known for high quality materials and craftsmanship.
However, excellent knives are made around the world.

Question 4

What is the safest way to open a folding knife?

Accepted Answer

Always open the knife slowly and deliberately, keeping your fingers away from the blade path.
Many modern knives include thumb studs, flippers, or assisted opening mechanisms that make this easier.

Question 5

Limited Lifetime Warranty

Accepted Answer

Mad Hawk Gear warrants to the original purchaser that Mad Hawk branded knives are
free from defects in materials and workmanship for the lifetime of the product under
normal, intended, and lawful use.

This Limited Lifetime Warranty:
Applies only to the original purchaser
Is non transferable
Applies only to products purchased directly from Mad Hawk Gear or an
authorized dealer
If Mad Hawk Gear determines, in its sole and exclusive discretion, that a product
contains a defect covered by this warranty, Mad Hawk Gear will, at its option:
Repair the product, or Replace the product with the same model or a comparable model if the original is unavailable. Replacement products may contain new or refurbished components.
Exclusions
This warranty does not cover:
Normal wear and tear, including edge dulling or cosmetic damage
Rust, corrosion, or staining resulting from environmental exposure or improper
maintenance
Damage resulting from misuse, abuse, negligence, improper storage, or
unintended use
Use for prying, hammering, striking hardened objects, or cutting metal
Improper sharpening, re profiling, or grinding
Disassembly, modification, or repair by any person other than Mad Hawk Gear
Accidental damage, loss, or theft

Mad Hawk Gear reserves the sole right to inspect and determine warranty eligibility.
Except as expressly provided herein, all products are provided “as is” without additional
warranties of any kind.

Question 6

What is Germany known for in knife making?

Accepted Answer

German knife makers are famous for precision engineering and long traditions in blade manufacturing.
Cities like Solingen have been associated with high quality blades for centuries.

Question 7

Should I cut toward or away from my body?

Accepted Answer

Always cut away from your body whenever possible.
This simple rule greatly reduces the risk of injury.

Question 8

What is the best way to clean a folding knife?

Accepted Answer

A simple method works best.
Wipe the blade with warm water and mild dish soap.
Use a soft brush or cloth to remove debris.
Dry thoroughly with a towel.
Apply a drop of lubricant to the pivot.
Avoid soaking the entire knife for long periods.

Question 9

What steel is best for everyday carry knives?

Accepted Answer

Many steels work extremely well for EDC use, including:
• D2
• 14C28N
• S30V
• AUS-8
• Nitro-V
These steels provide a great balance of edge retention and durability.

Question 10

Returns Policy

Accepted Answer

30 Day Return Period

Unused products may be returned within thirty (30) days of delivery for a refund or
exchange.

To qualify:
Product must be unused and in original condition
Original packaging must be included
Proof of purchase is required

Customer is responsible for return shipping costs unless the return is due to an error by
Mad Hawk Gear.

Refunds will be issued to the original payment method following inspection and
approval. Original shipping charges are non refundable.

Used products are not eligible for return unless approved under warranty evaluation.

Mad Hawk Gear reserves the right to deny returns that do not meet these requirements.

Question 11

What about Sweden?

Accepted Answer

Sweden is known for its high quality steel and traditional knife making. Swedish steels are respected throughout the knife industry.

Question 12

Should I oil my knife?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A small drop of knife oil on the pivot keeps the action smooth and reduces wear. Many people also apply a very thin coat of oil to the blade to protect against moisture.

Question 13

Is there an age requirement for purchase?

Accepted Answer

Yes. By purchasing any product from Mad Hawk Gear, the customer represents and warrants
that they are at least eighteen (18) years of age and legally permitted to purchase and
possess the product in their jurisdiction.

Mad Hawk Gear does not knowingly sell products to minors and reserves the right to
cancel any transaction believed to involve a minor.

Question 14

What steel holds an edge the longest?

Accepted Answer

High-end steels like S35VN, M390, and CPM-20CV are known for exceptional edge retention.
They can stay sharp through extended use.

Question 15

What is the safest grip when using a knife?

Accepted Answer

Hold the knife firmly with your fingers wrapped around the handle and your thumb on the spine or handle for control.
A secure grip helps prevent slipping.

Question 16

Can I put my folding knife in the dishwasher?

Accepted Answer

No. Dishwashers expose knives to prolonged heat, harsh detergents, and water that can damage handles, pivots, and finishes.

Question 17

Are knives made in China good?

Accepted Answer

China produces knives across the entire quality spectrum, from affordable everyday tools to extremely high-end collector pieces.
Many premium knives sold worldwide are manufactured in modern Chinese facilities that use advanced machinery and high quality materials.

Question 18

What steel is easiest to sharpen?

Accepted Answer

Steels like 14C28N, AUS-8, and 8Cr13MoV are known for being easy to maintain and sharpen while still providing excellent performance.

Question 19

Why do many folding knives have blade locks?

Accepted Answer

Locks help keep the blade securely open during use. Popular lock types include:

• liner lock
• frame lock
• back lock
• crossbar style locks

These mechanisms improve safety and confidence while cutting.

Question 20

What is the best way to care for my Mad Hawk knife?

Accepted Answer

Mad Hawk Knife Care Guide
Honor The Edge. Protect The Steel.
At Mad Hawk Gear, we build blades meant to be used, trusted, and handed down. A quality knife
will serve you for years if you take care of it properly. Here is how to keep your Mad Hawk
performing at its peak.

1. Keep the Blade Clean
After each use, wipe the blade down with a soft cloth to remove dirt, moisture, sap, or residue. If
needed, wash gently with warm water and a small amount of mild soap.
Rinse, then dry immediately and completely. Never leave water sitting on the steel.

2. Care for the Handle
Different handle materials require slightly different treatment:
Wood or natural materials: Wipe with a lightly damp cloth. Do not soak. Excess
moisture can cause swelling or cracking.
Synthetic handles: Mild soap and warm water work well. Rinse and dry thoroughly.
No matter the material, moisture is the enemy. Keep it dry.

3. Dry It Completely
This step matters more than most people realize.
After cleaning, make sure the blade, handle, pivot area, and hardware are fully dry. Use a clean
cloth and take a moment to inspect seams and crevices where water can hide.
Steel rusts when neglected. It stays strong when respected.

4. Protect the Steel with Oil
Apply a light coat of natural oil to the blade to guard against corrosion. Olive oil or food safe
mineral oil works well. Avoid petroleum based products.
Use a clean cloth to spread a thin, even layer across the blade, then wipe off any excess. The goal
is protection, not saturation.

5. Keep the Edge Sharp
A sharp knife is safer and more effective than a dull one.
Use a quality sharpening system such as a diamond stone or professional grade whetstone.
Maintain the factory edge angle and take your time. After heavy use, a few minutes of touch up
sharpening keeps your blade responsive and controlled.
If you are unsure of your sharpening technique, practice on a less valuable blade first or consult a
professional.

6. Remove Rust Early
If surface rust appears, do not panic.
Use a metal polish such as Flitz Metal Polish and a microfiber cloth to gently buff the affected
area. Most light corrosion can be removed quickly if addressed early.
The key is not letting it sit.

7. Maintain the Sheath
Your sheath protects the blade in the field, but it also needs care.
Wipe it down regularly to remove dirt and debris. If washing is necessary, use mild soap and
water, then allow it to dry completely before reinserting the knife.
Leather in particular can retain moisture from the air.

8. Store It the Right Way
Store your knife in a cool, dry location.
Avoid long term storage inside leather sheaths. Leather pulls moisture from the air and can
slowly corrode steel over time. For extended storage, keep the knife lightly oiled and resting on a
microfiber cloth in a dry space.

9. Use It with Intention
A Mad Hawk is built for performance, not abuse.
Do not cut metal, pry with the blade, or strike nails or hard steel objects. Use the knife for its
intended purpose and it will reward you with years of reliable service.

10. Inspect It Regularly
Take a moment now and then to check your blade.
Look for edge wear, loose hardware, corrosion, or handle damage. A quick cleaning and oiling
when needed prevents small issues from becoming big problems.

Final Word
A Mad Hawk knife is more than a tool. It’s something to be loved and admired. It is a human
artifact crafted with ingenuity. The metals in Mad Hawk knives are modern, high quality steel
blades and handles of various types. It’s an amazing piece of gear built with purpose.
Maintain it. Respect it. Trust it.
Honor The Edge.

Question 21

What steel is best for tough use?

Accepted Answer

Tough steels resist chipping during hard work. Examples include:
• CPM-3V
• 5160
• AEB-L
These steels are excellent for demanding tasks.

Question 22

Why does my folding knife feel gritty when opening?

Accepted Answer

Tiny particles of lint, dust, or dirt can collect inside the pivot area. A quick cleaning and a drop of lubricant usually restores smooth action.

Question 23

Can a folding knife close on your fingers?

Accepted Answer

Modern locking mechanisms are designed to prevent this, but users should still operate knives carefully and avoid placing fingers in the blade path.

Question 24

Why do some US brands manufacture overseas?

Accepted Answer

Global manufacturing allows companies to offer a wider range of price points while still maintaining strong design and quality control standards.

Question 25

Are expensive knives always made in the USA?

Accepted Answer

Not necessarily. Some high-end knives made internationally use premium materials, advanced machining, and hand finishing that place them among the best knives in the world.

Question 26

How should I store a folding knife?

Accepted Answer

Store knives in a dry place. If a knife will not be used for a long time, lightly oil the blade and keep it away from humidity.

Question 27

Is it safe to use a folding knife for heavy prying?

Accepted Answer

No. Folding knives are cutting tools, not pry bars. Using them for prying can damage the knife or cause injury.

Question 28

Are modern budget steels still good?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Even affordable steels today perform far better than many steels used decades ago. With proper heat treatment, they can deliver outstanding performance.

Question 29

Why do knife enthusiasts debate steel so much?

Accepted Answer

Steel discussions are part science and part passion. Knife collectors enjoy comparing different steels, but the truth is that many modern steels perform extremely well in real-world use.

Question 30

What is the safest way to pass a knife to someone?

Accepted Answer

Close the knife first before handing it to another person.

Question 31

What is the biggest mistake people make when maintaining knives?

Accepted Answer

Over-lubricating. A tiny drop is enough. Too much oil attracts dirt and dust.

Question 32

What matters most when choosing a knife?

Accepted Answer

The most important factors are:

• design
• heat treatment of the steel
• quality control
• intended use

A well designed knife made anywhere can perform exceptionally well.

Question 33

Do folding knives need sharpening often?

Accepted Answer

Most modern steels hold an edge for a long time. Touch-ups with a sharpening system or ceramic rod keep them performing their best.