Removing Rust

[VBoss511]

Does anyone have any preferred methods of removing rust besides Electrolysis, I seem to be having some trouble getting all the rust off a Steyr M.95?

[Atticus Thraxx]

It depends on how bad it is. For small areas where the finish doesn’t matter I go at it with a brass toothbrush type thing and Kroil. Larger areas with a brass wire wheel. Hard to reach areas I use dental tools and Kroil. Different sized patches, pipe cleaners and a tabletop mounted wire wheel are handy to have. There’s no end of cleaners, solvents and snake oil out there. Nothing beats scrubbing by hand if you ask me. Having said all that I’ve seen miracles with electrolysis if that’s at all an option. Can even rig up your own setup pretty cheap.

[Singer B]

I usually soak the rusted area in oil for a day or two and then use a a pre-80s penny to scrape it off, using more oil as I go. Once the heavy work is done, I'll use the brass brush for the lighter detail work. I try to stay away from the electrical devices since I have seen them remove patina along with the rust. Make sure the penny is a pre-80's penny since they are still copper and won't hurt your metal finish.

[usabaker]

Convert the rust first with steam, then card off the metal. You can then boil the parts and recard. Remember blue is rust.

I would not use electrolysis as it removes everything including the original blue. Using oil and a penny or steelwool will remove the rust and leave bare metal spots, maybe you can't see them but they are there and a spot that can have rust return.

This is just what I do and just my opinion; I'm not saying its the right way or the best way so no flames please.