how do i sharpen and De-rust a old sword?

Question

i got a sword a year or so age for free but its all rusty and dull so i was wondering how to got the rust off and sharpen it

Answer 1

WD-40 will remove the rust without damage to the metal.

Answer 2

You want to stop and remove any active rust, and stop there until you find out what it is. Wipe it down with light mineral oil (sewing machine oil is okay) and a rag until you get off as much of the red/orange rust as you can, then rub off as much of the oil as you can, leaving a very thin film.



Then, take pictures and post them on a sword-related forum such as http://www.myarmoury.com or http://swordforum.com, and ask people to help you identify it. If it is antique, the goal is to preserve it, preventing future damage without changing it's appearance. If it is a modern sword, then you can go ahead and clean it up.

Answer 3

Go to www.pbs.org. Click on Antiques Roadshow. They can give you hints for this. If it has value, you'll ruin the patina that way and no collector will want it.

Answer 4

STOP!!! If this sward has value($$$$), you will phuquer it up by cleaning it up. Do some research first.

Answer 5

WD-40, is a good way.