MagnaCut is one of the most exciting knife steels to emerge in recent years — engineered by metallurgist Larrin Thomas to deliver an exceptional balance of edge retention, toughness, and corrosion resistance. If you've invested in a MagnaCut blade, a little care goes a long way to keeping it performing at its best for years to come.

Why MagnaCut Is Different

Unlike traditional stainless steels, MagnaCut achieves its corrosion resistance without sacrificing toughness.

 It sits in a sweet spot between high-performance tool steels and premium stainless options — meaning it resists rust far better than steels like S90V or M390, while still holding a razor edge through demanding use.

Cleaning Your MagnaCut Blade

After each use, wipe the blade clean with a dry cloth or a lightly dampened microfibre cloth. Avoid leaving acidic substances (citrus juice, blood, salt water) on the blade for extended periods — even though MagnaCut is highly corrosion resistant, prolonged exposure can cause staining.

  • Use warm water and mild soap for a thorough clean
  • Dry immediately and completely — never leave wet
  • Avoid dishwashers, which can damage handles and accelerate wear on pivot hardware

Oiling and Protecting the Blade

A light coat of food-safe mineral oil or a dedicated blade oil (such as Ballistol or Sentry Solutions TUF-GLIDE) applied every few months will keep the blade looking pristine and provide an extra barrier against moisture. For folding knives, a drop of oil on the pivot keeps the action smooth.

Sharpening MagnaCut

MagnaCut responds well to most sharpening systems — whetstones, guided rod systems, and strops all work effectively. Because of its fine carbide structure, it takes a very refined, polished edge. Aim for an angle between 17–22° per side depending on your intended use:

  • 17–19° — slicing tasks, food prep, detail work
  • 20–22° — general EDC, outdoor and bushcraft use

Finish on a leather strop loaded with compound to align the edge and maximise sharpness.

Storage

Store your knife in a dry environment. Avoid leather sheaths for long-term storage as leather can trap moisture and tannins that cause staining. Kydex or a dry cloth wrap is ideal for fixed blades. For folders, a drawer or display stand works well.

Shop MagnaCut Knives at Lyons Blade

We carry a curated selection of knives featuring MagnaCut steel from some of the finest makers in the world. Browse our Fixed Blade Knives and Folding Knives collections to find your next MagnaCut blade.