How to Repair a Rusty Sword
Many sword owners can avoid
costly repairs and breakage to their prized collection by simply performing
routine basic maintenance on their swords. A sword is made out steel and steel
is prone to rust. It is a good idea to annually inspect your sword for signs of
rust and pitting. If you live in a high humidity area, you may need to check
more often and keep your sword sealed away from the elements. Keep your sword
away from all moisture. If it comes in contact with moisture, wipe it away
immediately.
How To Prevent Rusting
When it comes to sword care,
the old adage certainly holds true, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of
cure. Here are some basics steps to keep your sword in mint condition.
·
When you get your
sword for the first time, it is likely to have a coating of grease from the
factory, meant to protect it during travel. Remove with lacquer thinner or
mineral spirits and reapply a coat of light oil or wipe down with a
silicone-coated cloth. A gun/reel cloth would suit your purpose nicely.
·
Keep blade away
from all forms of moisture, including high humidity environments.
·
Annually inspect
the blade to ensure there is no surface rusting. If surface rusting occurs, a
fine sandpaper and some oil can help you gently remove the rust.
Advanced Rust Removal
There are always risks
associated with cleaning your sword, regardless of method. Any type of cleaning
method has the potential to damage your sword or cause you personal injury. If
you have any doubts about your capability to clean your sword, seek professional
assistance.
·
Chemical Cleaners
A sword cleaning kit, or cleaner like
Nev-R-Dull, is a safe option for removing light surface rust and dirt
accumulation. You can often find a mild chemical cleaner at a local automotive
store. If using Nev-R-Dull, rub the rusted area using a small portion, then
wipe clean. Always test the cleaner on a small area if you are unsure of the
results.
·
Acidic Solutions
A second,
more complicated option is to use acids. Always use extreme caution and go very
slow when using acids. Start small with mild everyday acids, like lemon juice.
It might take a few days to take effect after application so be patient. Next
you can try vinegar followed by Worcestershire sauce. Heavier acids, like a
diluted solution of muriatic or phosphoric acids can be found at pool supply
stores, but should be used with extreme caution. Eventually the acid could eat
into the sword, so check regularly once applied.
There are several other
methods for removing rust, such as electrolysis, a process that involves
breaking apart rust molecules into iron and oxygen, then causing the oxygen to
bind to the more active metal. Also, it is said that exposure to high heat can
remove rust. These techniques are not recommended as they can cause unwanted
discoloration, distempering, and dulling. If the above solutions do not work,
seek professional care.
You can find an extensive
collection of authentic samurai swords at Swords Of
The East.