Hello Gentlemen, let me answer in turn (and huge thanks to all)
Michael,
Thank you for you kind words and advice.
The silicon is 'silicon carbide paper' (wet and dry) so just to even out the rust really.
the Blade is double edged (definately) although it may have been accentuated by surface loss, the blade is sharp almost all the way up.
Jim,
Thank you, but we all just follow your lead sir
David,
I really don't know to be truthful.
Whatever happens, I need to clean the loose rust off, and conserve it. If I keep it I would do exactly as you say with the handle, but to be honest, I usually find that I can't keep relics for long, I find the condition 'issues' niggle away at me.
As for baby Alex, he is still keeping us awake at nights, but he's doing well and is an absolute joy. Thank you for asking
Manuel
David meant me, I became a dad 6 months ago for the first time.
Philip,
Never fear, I don't see any need to remove the pommel from this sword.
Nando,
A father 32 years ago? Is he sleeping through the night yet?
-After 6 months the sleep depravation seems endless.