Its here, what do I do with it?

My first vintage str8 that I posted about re ID help with is here.

It is a 6/8? Edward Barnes and Sons, Sheffield spike. No smile, no frown. The edge is still sharp. Some black spots that I think are hiding some pits.

Here is the thread with the pics.

I think the scales are horn, not sure. They are black with some white mottling. Pretty tight, but could be tighter.

I think it is hollow ground. I know that the company made swords and daggers during the civil war and exported them to the US.

I have read the restoring thread, but am looking for some advice. A little scared about taking sandpaper to it.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by singlewedge

I have read the restoring thread, but am looking for some advice. A little scared about taking sandpaper to it.

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Unless you start with sandpaper that's a lower grit than about 220, it's hard to do serious damage by sanding as long as you pay attention.