I was told by a long-standing customer that his 7-year-old knife was, "like new." I asked, "How can that be?" He said, "Because I take care of it!" So, I encourage three things; (1) it is sharpened. You keep it HONED! (2) Blade is friction fit (channeled) in the sheath. Reinsert the blade in same spot you extracted it. (3) A little mild soap and water, rinse, and wipe dry.