I have inherited several daggers which were stored for 40 years. what is the best way to clean these for display?

I would not clean them. It could significantly reduce the value of the pieces by removing the patina that collectors cherish as a sign of authenticity. If you have specific concerns, forum members can help but would need more info. With all antiques less is more when it comes to cleaning or restoration. A small amount and I mean small amount of gin oil on the blades is all I would do to reduce oxidation. Please do not clean without experienced advice.

That is GUN oil

Strato:

I prefer gin oil in a glass.

John

Yes, but how many glasses of Gin do you have to drink to get a good Gin oil?

Come to think of it, I was having a libation as I wrote my reply and recall my glass was empty again. Freudian slip?

thank you, I will leave as they are

If you are able to, post a picture here. In some cases, cleaning is beneficial and necessary.

Dave
Admin

I have read many of the posts in this forum. But I still would like to know what would be best for this dagger ( my Teno on the misc. dagger forum) and scabbard. Renaissance cream, gun oil or nothing? Over the years it's been wrapped in a t shirt and has been just fine. Of course now I worry about something happening to it. Should I just leave it as is?
Thanks for the help!

I don't think that Renwax will harm anything at all. And, it will help clean and preserve whatever it is on.

John

I just dont want my dagger to rust. So what type of oil would you recommend to put on the dagger?

Kyles:

Don't put oil on daggers, especially plated blades.

Use Renwax instead to protect everything from the moisture in the air.

John

Ok, thanks John!

Never use gun oil. Over time, it can darken or spot the blade and, once in the scabbard, will attract dust and that will also contribute to darkening.
I use a silicon base wax and leave the dagger out of the scabbard and put it in a bag made from anti silver tarnish material that is available from most quality fabric stores.
LOOK AT the piece at least on a yearly basis and monitor the humidity in the area and, hopefully, keep it below 50%.