A cup hilt sword ... atypical, for your comments.

[Philip]

Originally Posted by Victrix

I use Ballistol only on guns (with moving parts). I use mineral oil for swords, and when dry I apply Renaissance wax on top. I use walnut oil for wood (butt stocks on guns, wood hilts on swords, poles on polearms).

Agreed, Ballistol is great for lubricating the mechanical components of guns, and moreover is not harmful to wood (softening/staining). But for the surfaces that will be in contact with wood, or outside and exposed to handling, I prefer a good wax (like Renaissance). This, mainly because wood can absorb oils, and waxed surfaces are cleaner to hold. This, for antiques to display and other guns to shoot.

Thanks for the tip on walnut oil, will try it as you advise. Heretofore I have only used it for cooking (certain dishes from Turkey and Caucasus require it).