18thC Ottoman Flintlock Holster pistol restoration project.

[Atlantia]

Got a cracked mainspring unfortunately.

Here's the engraving on the lock plate:

[rickystl]

Hi Gene. I agree with Michael on the dismantling. Some of the lock screws might need some good penetrating oil. Let it sit for a few days, adding a little each day. Looks like all the major pieces are there. The broken mainspring: SAVE the broken one!! A new one can be made using the old one as a pattern. Same with any other broken internals. I'm working on these old guns myself all the time. It will be interesting to see if there are any barrel markings. The pistol looks ottoman, or made in the Balkans for the Turkish market. Good luck. And keep us posted on your progress. Rick.

[Matchlock]

Hi Gene,

I've never seen that kind of signature.

Cracked mainsprings can often be electrically welded and will fairly hold action! Just clean the broken contact areas.

Best,
Michael

[fernando]

Originally Posted by Matchlock

... I've never seen that kind of signature...

Isn't that, one of these meaningless (sort of) inscriptions ?

[Matchlock]

That was my first impression, 'Nando, but it was up to the boss to utter.

Best,
Michl

[Fernando K]

Para cualquier restauracíon en las partes de hierro o acero, la única manera de eliminar el óxido, es química. Aunque se trate de limpiar con tela de esmeril, la corrosión se mantiene en las depresiones, y la existencia de un óxido como cuerpo extraño en la superficie del metal forma un par galvánico, que promueve la posterior oxidación. El único método efectivo para eliminar el óxido es la electrolisis, o el método de Zinc-soda

For any restoration in parts of iron or steel, the only way to remove rust, is chemistry. Although it is cleaned with emery cloth, corrosion remains in the depressions, and the existence of an oxide as a foreign body in the metal surface forms a galvanic couple, which promotes further oxidation. The only effective method to remove rust is electrolysis, or the method of Zinc-soda
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[Matchlock]

As to possible damage, we should differentiate varios forms of rust.

Removing aggressive red surface rust does, in my experience, not need chemicals but just oil. Oiling will passivate it.

Old, plain and black rust is stable in itself and does not need any treatment except oil.

I dare repeat my credo once more: chemicals will irreversibly ruin and spoil old surfaces. I would always prefer a heavily patinated, dark iron surface to any bright polish. Its impression is much closer to the original period surface, and you can always take something off but hardly add anything!

Don't forget that these items have come down to us unrotten since hundreds of years in untouched condition. We won't live to see them vanish under our hands even if we preserve their charming old surfaces.

Best,
Michael