I'm a bit wary of any blasting process, in no small part because I have in my possession a bayonet (French Chassepot model, I think) which, unfortunately, was glass blasted in order to remove rust. Patina's gone, but more critically, so have some small details on the blade itself (stamped and engraved numbers and letters) which would have helped ID it. With that in mind, I'm not sure about using it on this barrel. I think first thing to do is try my hand at a gentle experimental etch with a mild acid, on an area which remains out of sight but which has remaining pattern and corrosion. That'll enable some assessment of the results. Any thoughts?
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