China Clay Oil Question

[WARDOG0125]

I was wondering if it's better to oil chips with mineral oil, or let them break themselves in as we play. I know it's not good to get food grease and stuff on 'em but there's only drinks allowed at the table no chips,sandwiches, or what not. the reason I ask is I read china clays don't retain oil, and I have no prior experience because the Pharoh's are my first set that wasn't the dice chips or other slugs.

[albie]

I oiled mine & imo they looked much nicer afterwards. After a year of being used once a week, they are starting to look a little chalky again.

[GameShaman]

I have the Milanos. I oiled a rack and compared it to a rack with 1 night of play. It was hard to tell which were oiled and which were played with. I don't think they take oil well and all you are seeing is the removal of the dust on the chips, so playing with them gets them to about the look. Because of this, I didn't even both oiling the rest.

[Double Eagle]

There is no point in oiling China Clays.

[JM]

That's my feeling as well, I don't think they need it at all. In fact the only new chips I think need oil are ASM & BCC. I don't think china clays or new paulsons need anything but a wipedown with a damp cloth to remove the chip dust.

[mindaramblin]

I think I'll probably oil every set I get from here on out. I find a lot of joy in the meticulous work that goes into certain jobs. I used to cover shifts for friends at the local skate shop and manage a coffee shop. Whether it's completely taking apart a skateboard and cleaning and oiling the bearings, or making sure all the specifications are in the right place to pull a good shot of espresso, I like putting care and time into the things that I enjoy. That's what oiling poker chips is for me.

Kind of a threadjack, I apologize, but still somewhat relevant.