Looking after a horn handle through the foraging season
Horn is made of keratin, the same protein as hair and fingernails, which explains how it behaves: it dislikes long soaks and dry heat but responds well to a little oil.
- After a damp outing, dry the 6 cm horn handle with a soft cloth rather than leaving it on a radiator.
- Every few weeks, rub in a drop of mineral oil or beeswax so the glossy black does not turn dull.
- Rinse grit from the bristles, shake them out and let them dry before folding the blade back.
- Wipe the 4 cm blade dry, and add a touch of oil to the pivot if it starts to feel stiff.
Of all the keychains made in Pakistan in this family, the horn version rewards that small effort most visibly.
