I'm betting its dried up oil used to lubricate the wheel. Lots of times people keep a small jar sitting and dunk their cutter into it.
soooo-I would try either fresh oil, letting it sit for a while or a good degreaser, again its probly going to have to sit. dawn, I use a product called Greased Lightning, or perhaps goo gone which is citrus oil based. Also- cutters like you speak of are relatively inexpensive and you might just want to get a new one-fletchers can be had for 5 or 6 dollars on ebay and toyo for 20-30 dollars, it is up to you. My favorite is a 5 dollar fletcher type I bought at the hardware store.

thats exactly what they were all in...a small jar. i guess i can get the new ones also..maybe im just being nostalgic. im going to try the degreaser first though. thanks!

If they were mine, I'd soake them in turpentine b/f the oil. Worth a try.

Slow ! Howdy. Yes turpentine would be a great idea.

Hi! You might also try WD-40. Spray or drop on the frozen area, wait, then wipe off. It won't hurt it.