1. keep the blade lightly oiled (or waxed).
2. always remove the blade from the sheath when taking off your knife.
3. always wipe off the blade immediately it is removed from the sheath.
4. if you use your knife, wipe the blade clean before butting it back in its sheath.
5. allow the blade to "air dry" before putting the knife away.
6. shove a pencil into the sheath far enough to open it so that the leather can dry from both sides.
7. if storing your knife for a long time, oil the blade and wrap it in cling film.
8. never store your knife in it's sheath.