UBB.threads Forums General Interest Restoration, Conservation, and Maintenance Forum Runner mark removal?

I have an SA dagger that is near-perfect, except for some runner marks which do not cross the motto. Is there a way to polish or buff out the runner marks without impacting the integrity of the blade?

Thanks,
Bob.

You can buff it "to the bone" but once they disappear the dagger most probably will be the trash.
If the dagger is "near-perfect", just leave the runner marks alone - they are nothing bad (just my $0.02).

quote:

Originally posted by bobcam1:
I have an SA dagger that is near-perfect, except for some runner marks which do not cross the motto. Is there a way to polish or buff out the runner marks without impacting the integrity of the blade?

Thanks,
Bob.

Bob, it is my considerd opinion after having had countless SA/NSKK/SS daggers, that the best thing to do is leave well enough alone. I HAVE on occassion, carefully removed those brass runners and made them less hard on the blade as it slides in and out by tweeking them a bit. Remember though, you run the risk of buggering screws and damaging the runners where they attach to the throat itself.
Lloyd

I agree. By polishing the runner marks, you will likely polish the surrounding area, removing any crossgrain that is there. You may be able to diminish the look of the marks by dulling them with an abrasive material, but they will still be there and, again, you are chancing making the situation worse. If the crossgrain is very heavy and you can see it in the runner marks, careful "blending" may make the blade look better. But, it is still "chancey" to do so and better left in the hands of an expert. All things considered, I'd leave it alone and enjoy the positive aspects of the dagger. Really, very, very few, untouched daggers are perfect and most show runner marks.

If there is no "crossgrain" showing on a blade that makes it worthless? JohnJ

Not at all, John. Original crossgrain(ing) is considered a desirable attribute by most collectors and the lack of it generally lessens the value of the dagger, but not necessarily by a great amount. Much depends on the overall condition, maker, any special features (serial numbers, names, dedications, etc.). However, I have heard of "untouched" daggers with no crossgrain, but they have to be rare. It would be hard to tell if the grain was totally polished out at the factory or sometime later, if the etching is crisp. If the grain is truly absent from your dagger, and it makes you happy, getting rid of the runner marks may not be so difficult or "chancey," as long as you stay away from the etched portions (motto and maker mark). Some use special stones to polish blades, but a more readily available material is sandpaper. You can use 1500 and 2000 grit wet or dry paper, available at many hardware stores and at most automotive paint supply stores. It is priced very reasonably (a few dollars for several sheets). If possible, disassemble the dagger and work with the blade only. Start with 1500 grit (wet or dry) and slowly and very lightly work on the runner marks. When they have blended with the rest of the blade's surface, go lightly over the entire blade for a uniform finish. Then use the 2000 grit to polish to a bright finish and to remove any evidence of the 1500 grit polishing. If you wish, finish it off with a good metal polish for a brilliant finish, again being careful to avoid the etched areas. When using the sandpaper, fold it a couple of times before starting. This makes it more rigid and keeps it on a flatter plane, so as not to allow it to dip into the etched areas or to cause "dishing." Take long, light, smooth strokes with the paper. Take your time and use caution. It should turn out fine.

Thank you Grumpy for taking the time to give me the interesting, informative and most helpful explanation! JohnJ

Is there such a thing as an SA without runner marks? I had the chance to examine some pristine examples. To some degree, all had runner marks.

Stephane, here you go! Not a trace Regards, Leipzig

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Wow Leipzig, I'm impressed!