is there such a thing as a waterproof sword/blade?

kahnjar1 · 23rd July 2008, 06:15 AM

Modern firearms are blued, and in earlier days were browned to retard rusting. The process in fact is an artificial rusting process. I do not know if the same process was applied to blades, but I would suggest that the practice of etching blades to bring out the pattern is a similar thing. Those who collect Keris and other blades of a similar type will know the answer to this I expect.
Regards Stuart

Henk · 23rd July 2008, 01:06 PM

No, after etching the blade must be dried very good and after drying the blade is oiled to prevent rusting.
Even blued and browned blades and firearms have to be oiled to keep in good shape.

Rich · 23rd July 2008, 01:15 PM

If steel could be made "waterproof" (prior to invention of "stainless" steel
in the early part of the 20th C), there would be a LOT more antique knives
and swords around :-) Don't we wish!

Rich S

23rd July 2008, 06:15 AM	#1
kahnjar1 Member Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: CHRISTCHURCH NEW ZEALAND Posts: 2,786	Modern firearms are blued, and in earlier days were browned to retard rusting. The process in fact is an artificial rusting process. I do not know if the same process was applied to blades, but I would suggest that the practice of etching blades to bring out the pattern is a similar thing. Those who collect Keris and other blades of a similar type will know the answer to this I expect. Regards Stuart

23rd July 2008, 01:06 PM	#2
Henk Member Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: The Netherlands Posts: 1,209	No, after etching the blade must be dried very good and after drying the blade is oiled to prevent rusting. Even blued and browned blades and firearms have to be oiled to keep in good shape.

23rd July 2008, 01:15 PM	#3
Rich Member Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: comfortably at home, USA Posts: 432	If steel could be made "waterproof" (prior to invention of "stainless" steel in the early part of the 20th C), there would be a LOT more antique knives and swords around :-) Don't we wish! Rich S