Rusted 17th C persian shamshir within decayed scabbard

[katana]

Originally Posted by celtan

David,
Do you think I should go beyond what I have already done? I mean, I don't want to overdo it, and end up with a character-less blade.
Best
M

Sorry Manuel I missed your post ,....the million dollar question, each individual has he or she's 'limit'. I treat each sword differently ....some I feel are better with more cleaning, others less. I always err to 'less' to preserve it's history. Personally I think the dark patches of what appears to be raised (above the general surface) 'scaly' patches should be removed.....generally these raised areas (if indeed yours are?) tend to have active rust within them, similar to a 'blister'.(actually the steel seems to delaminate with rust between each layer)

To remove them I very gently scrape them with a small sharp blade, I know many would make a face like this ....but I find it a good way to remove these areas without unnecessary sanding of the blade surface surrounding these 'blisters'.

All the best
David