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Originally Posted by jswillems
Thanks for all the replies. I really appreciate the help. Just to bring it up again, I was wondering whether or not I should try and clean the blade at all. It has some spots of active rust that I'd like to get rid of. Should I try lightly cleaning it or just leave it as it is? Thanks.
- Josh
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Josh, always stay way conservative in cleaning! These pieces have earned whatever age they have on them, and patination is treasure on these old warriors. The main thing is to stabilize any active rust, just use light oil WD40 and then oil well with gun oil and a rag. Using the finest steel wool for tough spots. There is nothing worse than overcleaned.
The exception is always on fine steel blades of pattern, which should be polished professionally.
These kaskaras are fascinating ethnographic swords, and though this one, like many, is probably 20th century, they are still proudly owned heirlooms in tribal families.
All the best,
Jim