hawk,

A Becker C/U 7 is made of carbon steel with a coating. The sharpened edge or any part of the blade on which the coating is damaged will rust if not cared for.

If you care for the knife after use you should be OK. A quick rinse in fresh water followed by a swipe of Tuff-cloth or various oils would be advised. If you need a knife that will NOT rust than this, or just about any, Carbon steel knife is not for you.

I have used my Becker in salt water areas (not on a boat or in salt water) with no problems. I only bother to clean up my blades well after I return home and the tool will be stored. I treat all my blades with Tuff-Cloth at home. In the field I just rinse and dry reasonably after use.

Most Marine knives are made in a 440 or 420 type stainless steel which is very forgiving in salt water environments.