Thread: The Rustiques

Is there a way to remove rust from a patina'd blade without removing the patina? I have several that have great patina, but they have significant rust, especially on the tang near the pivot.

Not really. If you selectively sand rust you end up with shiny pits surrounded by patina. You can deactivate any active red rust with various acids but the rust will then just turn black & still be noticeable. If you're keen for an even look, resto the blade then artificially patinate again.

Originally Posted by onimaru55

Some nice heirlooms there.
# 2 looks like a red imp wedge

correct....from top to bottom wilbert cutlery, red imp wedge 132, curtin & clark, and J.A. henckles twinworks 401

Originally Posted by souschefdude

Is there a way to remove rust from a patina'd blade without removing the patina? I have several that have great patina, but they have significant rust, especially on the tang near the pivot.

I used fine grit scotchbrite soaked with 3in1 oil. emphasis on very fine as in just enough to take off the surface rust. if you dont want to use scotchbrite then some old denim or similar cloth with oil should work. one of my gunsmithing books actually explains that old guns didnt get blueing they just oiled them down and wiped away the rust which gave them a brown finish after all the rusting and oiling...I assume it would work the same for a straight razor.

Could not clean this one up for some odd reason. It's an old wosty.

'A very nice pc. Would I be correct in guessing that it's an excellent shave? So far, each blade I've tried w/ a smile has been way more smooth than a straight edge. The old barber manual that JimmyH links, speaks of the effect of smile or frown in a similar manor. 'A bit more challenge for this noob to hone, but very rewarding. Thanks for posting!

to hone the this was a challenge ,but the result is worth it smooth indeed.

I believe in 1820 this razor was just perfect

Very nice find

Very nice, those look like original pins...hone her up and dance with her!!