I thought Id give a relic early transverse cast No.5 Mills bomb a bit of attention. Some before and after shots attached.
The treatment for the body, striker and lever consisted of mechanical removal of as much loose rust as possible, followed by five hours in a beaker of oxalic acid solution at 90C. Parts were then cleaned of iron oxalate with a Dremel and wire wheel, thoroughly dried, and then treated with a coat of 50:50 liquid beeswax:brown boot polish.
The lever was oil blacked by heating to a red glow and quenching in engine oil, and the aluminium base plug was cleaned with nitric acid. A replacement aluminium centre piece was added, and job done.
A pleasant way of passing an evening
Tom.
The treatment for the body, striker and lever consisted of mechanical removal of as much loose rust as possible, followed by five hours in a beaker of oxalic acid solution at 90C. Parts were then cleaned of iron oxalate with a Dremel and wire wheel, thoroughly dried, and then treated with a coat of 50:50 liquid beeswax:brown boot polish.
The lever was oil blacked by heating to a red glow and quenching in engine oil, and the aluminium base plug was cleaned with nitric acid. A replacement aluminium centre piece was added, and job done.
A pleasant way of passing an evening
Tom.
