removing rust

M14MSgt · April 11, 2009, 11:23 PM

I acquired an 1893 French Lebel rifle (8x50Rmm) which has substantial rust on both the action and barrel. How can I get this off without ruining the weapon?

Scorch · April 12, 2009, 01:20 AM

A bronze wire wheel for an arbor motor. Lacking that, oil and 0000 steel wool.

M14MSgt · April 12, 2009, 04:26 PM

thank you

Ruger4570 · April 14, 2009, 09:43 PM

I too have found that the 4/0 steel wool works well with no damage to the blueing. I use (shudder) WD-40 as the oil as it seems to loosen the rust better and faster than plain gun oil.

T. O'Heir · April 14, 2009, 09:56 PM

Sounds like it might be too far gone, but the brass or bronze wire wheel in a bench grinder and a light touch will take off surface rust(substantial rust may include heavy pitting) without bothering any finish. Eye protection is required.

April 11, 2009, 11:23 PM	#1
M14MSgt Senior Member Join Date: August 11, 2007 Location: Lancaster CA Posts: 105	removing rust I acquired an 1893 French Lebel rifle (8x50Rmm) which has substantial rust on both the action and barrel. How can I get this off without ruining the weapon?

April 12, 2009, 01:20 AM	#2
Scorch Senior Member Join Date: February 13, 2006 Location: Washington state Posts: 15,249	A bronze wire wheel for an arbor motor. Lacking that, oil and 0000 steel wool. __________________ Never try to educate someone who resists knowledge at all costs. But what do I know? Summit Arms Services

April 12, 2009, 04:26 PM	#3
M14MSgt Senior Member Join Date: August 11, 2007 Location: Lancaster CA Posts: 105	thank you

April 14, 2009, 09:43 PM	#4
Ruger4570 Senior Member Join Date: April 3, 2005 Location: Rochester, New York Posts: 2,136	I too have found that the 4/0 steel wool works well with no damage to the blueing. I use (shudder) WD-40 as the oil as it seems to loosen the rust better and faster than plain gun oil.

April 14, 2009, 09:56 PM	#5
T. O'Heir Senior Member Join Date: February 13, 2002 Location: Canada Posts: 12,453	Sounds like it might be too far gone, but the brass or bronze wire wheel in a bench grinder and a light touch will take off surface rust(substantial rust may include heavy pitting) without bothering any finish. Eye protection is required.