Clean it or leave it

[Larry G.]

I bought a 1905 RIA dated 1906 along with a 1910 RIA scabbard. The blade is in very good condition but from the handguard up there is rust of varying degrees. I cleaned it with CLP and a soft cloth only to take off the surface rust. Is it advisable to use a scotch bright pad and CLP to remove some of the more stubborn rust?

Information

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[peregrinvs]

If it was mine I would clean the metal with wire wool well lubricated with gun oil. If you're not heavy handed, this will take off surface crud / rust without damaging any remaining bluing.

[browningautorifle]

You have to be very careful or you will remove the bright finish the blade should have. If you make it look hashed over it looses considerable value.