Rust Elimination on Axe Heads

[ranger]

I have always had a few rust spots on my Gransfor’s SFA and would like to both get rid of them and make sure no further rust takes hold. I see on the Outdoors Online review of the SFA and Roselli axe that the reviewers axe also came with a few rust spots and he advised: sanding, metal brushing, an application of phosphoric acid and a coat of Biofa Hard Oil. Soaking the head in Ballistol is also mentioned. Would you guys concur that this is the best treatment or do you have other views?

Thanks
ranger

 

[larry the spark]

Not sure if this info will do for an axe but my 7" carbon Leuko recently got an absolute soaking and I failed to dry it properly for a number of hours and got some rusting. I asked the guys on british blades and they suggested polishing the rust off with toothpaste.... which worked a treat. Needs a good buffing though!

They then suggested dipping it in vinegar after the rust was removed and then cutting salami or spam with it in order to get a good patina on it (aids protection). Then apply any kind of oil really to protect it long term

 

[Martyn]

For an axe, where the finish is really irrelevant, pop into halfords and get some "automotive rust killer". Oil as normal.

 

[Adi007]

I've had my GrannyB for over a year now (I think) and it's been used quite a bit and so far doesn't have any rust on it ... chop, quick wipe and shove it back in the leather sheath is all it's ever got.

Once you've got it clean perhaps a quick run over with candle wax would protect it.

 

[Rob]

I like the idea of toothpaste to remove the rust, but what I find works very well on GB axes is gun oil - work some in the the head with some very fine wire wool.

Acts as a retardant.

Always recommend it - and haven't had any complaints.

 

[grumit]

i agree with rub been useing it on my sfa no rust :-D