Whether it’s a FocusWorks F2 Flashlight in solid copper or a custom brass Bob the Boxcutter, non-ferrous metals are the heart of a high-end Every Day Carry (EDC) setup. Unlike stainless steel or titanium, these "living materials" evolve. They react to your touch, your environment, and the passage of time.
In this guide, we’ll cover how to keep your gear looking brand new, how to embrace the patina, and the best "forced patina" methods used by the pros.
1. Why Copper, Brass, and Bronze?
These metals are prized in the EDC community for three reasons:
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Antimicrobial Properties: Copper and its alloys (brass and bronze) naturally kill bacteria and viruses—perfect for tools you handle all day.
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Weight & Feel: They offer a "heft" that feels substantial and premium in the hand.
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The Patina: Over time, these metals oxidize, creating a unique, weathered look that tells the story of your adventures.
2. Option A: The "Mirror Shine" (Cleaning & Polishing)
If you prefer the "fresh from the machine shop" look, you’ll need to combat oxidation (tarnish).
Daily Maintenance
To prevent oils from your skin from darkening the metal, wipe your gear down daily with a clean microfiber cloth. For a deeper clean without removing the finish, use Windex (Original) or 99% Isopropyl Alcohol.
Deep Cleaning & Polishing
If your gear has already started to dull, use these methods to restore the shine:
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Commercial Polishes: Brasso or Similchrome are what we use in the shop. Apply a small amount to a soft cloth, rub in a circular motion, and buff clean ( follow the instructions on the product).
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The "Natural" Method: Mix a paste of lemon juice and baking soda. Apply it to the metal, let it sit for 5 minutes, rinse with warm water, and dry immediately to prevent water spots.
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The Ketchup Trick: It sounds crazy, but the citric acid in ketchup works wonders on copper. Coat your item, let it sit for 10 minutes, and rinse.
3. Option B: Embracing the Natural Patina
The most common way to "maintain" copper and brass in the EDC world is to simply do nothing.
As you carry your gear, the high-contact points will stay bright from friction in your pocket, while the recessed areas will darken into deep browns, purples (copper), or vintage golds (brass). This creates a "forced-work" look that is highly sought after by collectors.
4. Option C: How to Force a Patina (Pro Techniques)
Can’t wait months for that vintage look? You can "age" your gear in an afternoon using these community-tested methods: (note:
The "Shipwreck" Look (Forced Oxidation)
This creates those stunning blue and green crusts (verdigris) often seen on nautical equipment.
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Clean the metal thoroughly with alcohol to remove all finger oils.
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Suspend the item in a sealed container over a bed of ammonia-soaked paper towels (do not let the metal touch the liquid).
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Sprinkle sea salt onto the damp metal.
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Wait 2–6 hours until the desired color forms, then rinse and seal with a clear coat or wax.
The Mustard/Vinegar Method
For a more "rugged" and splotchy look, dab yellow mustard or vinegar onto the surface and let it sit. The acidity creates an uneven, organic darkening that looks like years of hard use.
Note: All Focus Works EDC products have been sold with specialized finishes. It’s not advisable to use this method on our products. We already did the work for you, and sent it out in its best condition and finish.
5. Pro Tip: Protecting Your Finish
Once you’ve achieved the perfect look—whether it's a mirror shine or a deep patina—you want to lock it in.
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Renaissance Wax: Used by museums, this microcrystalline wax provides a thin, hard-shell barrier against oxygen and skin oils.
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Beeswax: A more natural option that gives the metal a warm, grippy texture.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re polishing your FocusWorks gear to a high luster or letting it "grow" with you, the beauty of these metals is that they are never truly finished.
Ready to add a new "living metal" to your pocket? Browse our latest Copper and Brass drops here.
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