cleaning up period bayonet

[TomTownsend]

I recently acquired a period Enfield bayonet. It is in relatively good shape, but needs shined up all over (and the locking ring might need replaced). What is the best way to clean it up (i.e. return the shine to it)?

Thanks,
Tom Townsend
6th OVI

[Vuhginyuh]

Re: cleaning up period bayonet

http://www.authentic-campaigner.com/forum/showthread.php?t=10486&highlight=clean

[nick19thind]

Re: cleaning up period bayonet

For God's sake don't shine it up as it will remove the markings and decrease its value significantly.
If there's surface rust or dirt on it the best way to clean it is with a piece of steel wool soaked in oil, then wiped with WD-40 soaked rag to prevent future rust.
For worse rust a pin or nipple prick can be used before repeating with the steel wool and rag mentioned before.

[1stMaine]

Re: cleaning up period bayonet

Comrade,

I disagree. Polish it up and enjoy. It's your property, do with it what you like. If we all listened to the relic collectors, there would be nothing but rusting hulks in museums.

Respects,

[Jimmayo]

Re: cleaning up period bayonet

I use a extra fine wire brush (on a bench grinder) on the blade. Gotta be careful not to have the bayonet get bound up on the wire brush and go flying through the air or into your foot. Also if the socket has blueing on it, I wouldn't remove it unless you plan on re-blueing it.

[D F Smith Historic]

Re: cleaning up period bayonet

Hi All,

Depending on how heavy the rust, I use what soem soldiers used, white ash from the fire place, as it has lye in it. Mixed into a paste and applyed with a stiff piece of cloth, It takes light to med weight rust off very nicely and does not hurt the value..Win Win


If it is heavier rust. The fine wire wheel is very good , but as Jim mentioned HOLD ON TO IT as the pedistal grinder has enough torque with the wire brush attachment to grab it out of your hands and do some dammage.

What ever you do, DO NOT USE A Dremel tool as there is little or no control with one of these and will make messy work.

I hope you have good sucsess with the cleaning process

All the best

Don S