1821 / 1896 Pattern Officer's Wilkinson cavalry sword

katana · 24th May 2011, 02:29 PM

This sword was in a terrible state...blade heavily rusted and the guard/handle/strap and pommel covered in black paint

.....which was covering silver/grey paint

.

Took the 'bull by the horns' and started on the blade. Using a dremmel with a small circular brass wire brush I removed some of the rust layer. Carefully trying to avoid the etched designs (which were not very 'obvious'). Later using very fine 'wet and dry' paper and lots of water I have been able to clean further without ruining the etching

.

As to the hilt, paint stripper, a small paint brush, tooth picks and caution (especially with the rayskin) allowed me to remove the black paint....to reveal silver/grey paint below. This too was carefully removed. I've still a little more cleaning to do....but is much improved

The blade is sharpened ....so hopefully has seen active service. Any ideas to age.....Edward VII 1899-1910 but was hoping that the Pall Mall address could pin point it more accurately ??

Any ideas as to how to condition the rayskin....the cautic paint stripper has dried it a little ?
All comments gratefully received, thank you

David

24th May 2011, 02:29 PM	#1
katana Member Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: Kent Posts: 2,653	1821 / 1896 Pattern Officer's Wilkinson cavalry sword This sword was in a terrible state...blade heavily rusted and the guard/handle/strap and pommel covered in black paint .....which was covering silver/grey paint . Took the 'bull by the horns' and started on the blade. Using a dremmel with a small circular brass wire brush I removed some of the rust layer. Carefully trying to avoid the etched designs (which were not very 'obvious'). Later using very fine 'wet and dry' paper and lots of water I have been able to clean further without ruining the etching . As to the hilt, paint stripper, a small paint brush, tooth picks and caution (especially with the rayskin) allowed me to remove the black paint....to reveal silver/grey paint below. This too was carefully removed. I've still a little more cleaning to do....but is much improved The blade is sharpened ....so hopefully has seen active service. Any ideas to age.....Edward VII 1899-1910 but was hoping that the Pall Mall address could pin point it more accurately ?? Any ideas as to how to condition the rayskin....the cautic paint stripper has dried it a little ? All comments gratefully received, thank you David Attached Images