The lock plate

[Duane Pringle]

Here it is after some light electrolysis this is all I will do to this piece.

 

[UCVRelics]

Very Nice piece. Make sure you coat it really good.

 

[Duane Pringle]

I definetly will.

 

[WJC]

Very Nice piece. Make sure you coat it really good.

What would you coat it with?

 

[UCVRelics]

The best way with iron is like I do artillery shells. Electrolysis which @Duane Pringle has done but the key is to get all the moisture out of the metal or it will continues to rust from the inside out. To do it right you need to boil in wax for at least 4 - 6 hours. Remove and let dry and there you go. Ive found over the years that the paint or poly only traps the moisture on the inside.

 

[WJC]

The best way with iron is like I do artillery shells. Electrolysis which @Duane Pringle has done but the key is to get all the moisture out of the metal or it will continues to rust from the inside out. To do it right you need to boil in wax for at least 4 - 6 hours. Remove and let dry and there you go. Ive found over the years that the paint or poly only traps the moisture on the inside.

Thanks for your response.
I've never done any preservation on antique firearms, but I have learned that paints, varnishes, and polyesters are not very good for items I have worked on. They are temporary fixes at best.
I may have a project on the way: I'll try your suggestion!

 

[originalrebelyell]

The few thing I have I heated the item slightly and applied paste wax and had no problem.

 

[originalrebelyell]

 

[mofederal]

I like the look of the harper's ferry lock It really looks good. Thanks for posting it.

 

[Duane Pringle]

Thank you all for commeting.