Questions about weapons maintenance and the like..

[Joachim Nilsson]

Got a few swords on the way and...

What's the best way to store the sword? Wrapped up in a box or drawer? What about hanging it on the wall? Does that in any way conjure up any problems over time, i.e. dust-accumulation etc?

How often do I have to polish and oil the blade? Once a week? Or is once a month sufficient?

And: Is there any way to get ride of already existing rust and discoloration? Seems some evil, evil creature fingered the blade of my pole-axe prior to me buying it... <img src="/forum/images/icons/mad.gif" alt="" /> At least the salesman knocked some 30 bucks off the price...

[GaryGrzybek]

Hello,

The best way to store your swords is by keeping them out of the scabbard or box. Moisture can become trapped inside and cause corrosion. I keep mine displayed on the wall. Not only does it look nice it also makes it easier to just grab one and train or whatever. Keep the blade and hilt components clean by wiping them down every time you handle it. You can simply use a soft rag and some mineral oil. I have recently started using CRP Breakfree which is a cleaner lubricant and can be found in many department stores such as Wall Mart. If your not in the states then finding it will be a problem. Anyway, you could polish the sword occasionally just to remove any oxidation or dirt build up and if you spot some rust just take one of those green pot scrubbing pads, some polish and rub it off. If the rust is heavy then some fine grit sandpaper will do the trick but remember to stay with the grain. Some folks are really too picky about their swords and panic at every scratch they see. I say if your going to use it then expect some sort of wear, besides it adds character <img src="/forum/images/icons/smirk.gif" alt="" />

Enjoy!

[Joachim Nilsson]

Hi Gary,
thanks for the advice. Much appreciated. It was just like I suspected it. Just wanted to make sure though.

And yeah, medieval weaponry do look good on the wall doesn't it? <img src="/forum/images/icons/laugh.gif" alt="" />

Gonna have a major project on my hands when I'm gonna mount my 16th century 6ft two-hander with side rings on the wall though... <img src="/forum/images/icons/crazy.gif" alt="" /> Got any clever tips?

[Shane Smith]

CLP works great as a protectant(I do plead guilty to storing my swords in their scabbards though).As for removing scratches,if your blade is not highly polished,a scotch-brite pad works well.If your blade IS highly polished, some oooo steel wool and wd40 work wonders when combined with a bit of elbow grease to remove light rust.I'm with Gary though,a few scratches add character and are of no practical consequence...

[Guest]

I found that good ol fashioned gun oil/protectant works great. I don't use the aerosol spray type, since hand rubbing lets you feel for nicks and such. If I have to store my blades in a box or for travel, I visit the local shoe store (or shoe department at Wal-Mart) and pick up the sillica packets on the floor (they don't mind) and they seem to absorb the moisture, haven't had any problems. For rust, I use my grinder with a fine wire wheel, then follow with a polish pad, ending with the oil. Good Luck!

[George Turner]

We probably need to figure out if linseed oil was the period protectant. It's been in use almost forever, and is commonly used on a great many old things, including old guns. Whale oil is another possibility, though I've never tried it for anything but muzzle-loaders. What would be a period method of rust removal? A fine stone or jewelers rouge (rust) or fine sand on a cloth?

[TimSheetz]

I think bees wax is a period protectorant.

I used melted bees wax to coat my maille... not too easy and a bit messy, but hey, I wanted to be historical.

Tim

"The maille man delivers."