Sandblasting a Sword?

[Jeff D]

Thank-you Jeff, Steve and Ward for your replies.

I was able to get the glass beads (not sure of the size) and walnut shells yesterday, and will try to get the Evapor-Rust (by Steve's link there is a local distributor). Time to bring out the rusty square again and do a side-by-side comparison of the different methods.
My concerns are as exactly stated by ward, I do not want a dull over cleaned result, but, the problem is I really don't like the rusted appearance either. I suspect the rust is also hiding marks and information as well. I will accept the rust over destroying the piece however.
It may take me a week or two try all the methods and I will post the result when I am done.

Thanks again everybody!
Jeff

[ausjulius]

please do not sand blast any antique or for that matter new cutlery,, it will damage the finish and only premotes rust, unless your making tactical finished military style knives sand blasting has no place...