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Post by davidg on Aug 8, 2022 23:17:00 GMT
Hello everyone, new member here!
I have a question - maybe some of you sword collectors can help?
I have an antique sword that is in a leather scabbard. The sword is in good shape, and I'd like to keep it that way.
Unfortunately, I can't display the sword, and so I have to put it in storage, in my own closet.
From reading about taking care of antique swords, I am learning that keeping the sword inside its leather scabbard, may actually not be the best thing for it.
Is there a way YOU recommend storing a sword?
Have you perhaps come across a good "archival" quality sword box, or storage methods, that you can recommend?
I'd like to wax the sword and leather scabbard, and then just store it away, and take a look at it every few months, add wax, etc., but pretty much just leave it in peace and quiet.
I just want to make sure I'm following the right procedure!
Thanks!
Dave
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Post by eastman on Aug 9, 2022 0:01:27 GMT
Steel, leather and humidity is a really bad combination. If the scabbard is leather (as opposed to a leather-covered wood scabbard), then it is best to not keep the sword in the scabbard when humidity is significant.
To protect the sword, use the techniques the PROS use (learned from the curator of the Arms & Armor collection at a major museum). Renaissance Wax - buy some. Yes it is expensive, but you don't use that much each time and it works. Warm the metal with a hair dryer or heat gun. You want warm to the touch, not too hot to handle. Then apply the Ren Wax while the metal is warm. When it cools to room temperature, apply a little more Ren Wax and buff with a soft cloth.
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Post by davidg on Aug 9, 2022 2:33:56 GMT
Hi Eastman, thanks, and yes, that's what I intend to do (to use wax as I had mentioned, and to keep the blade away from the leather scabbard).
But the advice I'm after is different: how to store the sword, scabbard and all. What to wrap it in, what type of archival box (is there such a thing?) to put it in, etc.
Any ideas on that?
Thanks
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Post by blackprince on Aug 10, 2022 0:39:00 GMT
I suggest mounting a gun rack in your closet so you can store the sword horizontally and up off the floor. Storing a sword vertically, propped against a wall, can eventually cause a set in the blade.
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Post by eastman on Aug 10, 2022 0:58:04 GMT
for an actual container, go to your local big sporting goods store (Cabela's, Bass Pro, Dunham's etc - just not that bunch of semprini's) and buy a rifle case. There are several options that even have a vapor rust inhibitor as part of the design (Zerust from Flambeau is an example).
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Post by davidg on Aug 10, 2022 23:41:34 GMT
Thanks very much for the suggestions! The rifle case is an interesting choice - I'll definitely look into that! I see these rifle cases are only about $60, so moderately priced as well! Thanks again!
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Post by viece on Aug 11, 2022 2:29:34 GMT
I have a fair number of antiques in long term storage and echo the suggestions above. Rifle cases, silicone gun socks, Ren Wax, and for good measure, some of those little dessicant packs you get in deliveries sometimes.
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