Kaskara for Comments

[Lew]

Josh

It's hard to tell I have a shortened kaskara that I know is European and it dates back to the 1700s but I am reluctant to start flexing it. My other one is normal size and has a stiffer thicker blade but no markings so I can't be sure. The flex test is something I read in a previous thread

Lew

[Gavin Nugent]

I have examples of both here and they both have good flex. I have not yet encountered one that does not have good flex to it

Pictured is my favorite that I am keeping for display, it comes with good unreaserched provenance that I'll follow up on one day.

Gav

[jswillems]

Thanks for all the replies. I really appreciate the help. Just to bring it up again, I was wondering whether or not I should try and clean the blade at all. It has some spots of active rust that I'd like to get rid of. Should I try lightly cleaning it or just leave it as it is? Thanks.

- Josh

[Jim McDougall]

Originally Posted by jswillems

Thanks for all the replies. I really appreciate the help. Just to bring it up again, I was wondering whether or not I should try and clean the blade at all. It has some spots of active rust that I'd like to get rid of. Should I try lightly cleaning it or just leave it as it is? Thanks.

- Josh

Josh, always stay way conservative in cleaning! These pieces have earned whatever age they have on them, and patination is treasure on these old warriors. The main thing is to stabilize any active rust, just use light oil WD40 and then oil well with gun oil and a rag. Using the finest steel wool for tough spots. There is nothing worse than overcleaned.
The exception is always on fine steel blades of pattern, which should be polished professionally.

These kaskaras are fascinating ethnographic swords, and though this one, like many, is probably 20th century, they are still proudly owned heirlooms in tribal families.

All the best,
Jim

[jswillems]

Thanks for the info, Jim. I know you have to be careful if you do any cleaning, which is why I wanted to ask here before I did anything. I think I'll just leave it as is (except for oiling the blade). Thanks again!

- Josh

[Rick]

Active rust should be removed before oiling or waxing .

[jswillems]

So should I just spray a little WD40 on the active rust and then wipe it off with a rag? Sorry for all the questions, but I've never done this before and I don't want to mess up! Thanks.

- Josh