I know what you mean about the folders collecting gunk. I was cleaning ducks for a while with whatever folder I was carrying, but finally had to carry a fixed blade that was a LOT easier to clean afterwards. What's nice about that too is it got me in the habit of having more than one knife in the field- folder on me, fixed in the bag.

Of course, just out of tradition any new knife I get has to clean one bird, even if it's not the most appropriate blade for it. The Ritter Mk3 did surprisingly well actually, but I wouldn't use it exclusively (for bird cleaning).

To get to the point of the post, my knives are all piled in my camp box. However they're all stainless so that hasn't been an issue. I have noticed that one Kershaw liner lock is a little stiff after a couple years of not using, and the lock itself where it contacts the blade while closed is a little stained. Wouldn't be surprised if, even in a stainless steel knife, the liners are not stainless.

J