Sword preservation advice?

[Solomon]

Been a while since I've logged on - life has been a bit full of late - but I've acquired a few swords and wanted to ask the advice of more experienced collectors. I'll post pics of them shortly - for posterity, and for specific inquiries - but I wanted to ask broadly about preservation and rust treatment.

Having had previous success with a conditioner from a boot manufacturer, regarding dried leather, I think I'm okay on the grips, but I wanted to ask about rust prevention and preservation. While I'm definitely not one to wish away patina (I love few things more), I do want to preserve the metal components of the swords, acting as their most recent steward. The metal scabbard of one particular veteran's sword (and to a less extent, the blade) has surface rust throughout, and while it will be stored in a stable, dry environment, I wanted to make sure the metal does not deteriorate further as the years go by. Should I hit it lightly with 0000 to remove the surface rust, and/or some kind of mild protectant, to prevent further oxidation?

Many thanks in advance!

 

[UCVRelics]

Should I hit it lightly with 0000 to remove the surface rust, and/or some kind of mild protectant, to prevent further oxidation?

That's is exactly what needs to be done. And then a very light coat of gun oil to keep from coming back.

 

[Badgercwcollector]

I have been using gun oil. What do you use for leather ? Look forward to seeing your swords !

 

[Solomon]

Awesome - thank you both! I'll post pics as soon as I can.

I have been using this stuff on all leather products (boots, gloves, belts, etc,, along with dried antique pieces) for about 20yrs and it works superbly. It will, however, turn light brown leather a couple of shades darker--

http://www.limmerbootgrease.com/shop/leather-care/limmer-boot-grease/