Polishing Metal Parts

trenchwarfare · 10th December 2013, 01:49 AM

I'm trying to understand something here. I have noticed a tendency, to polish brass, silver, copper, and other metals found on ethnographic edged weapon hilts, and scabbards. In the firearms world, and collecting of western military weaponry this is highly frowned upon. A polished Henry rifle brass frame, kills the value by at least 50%. Same is true on other brass firearm furniture.

I understand wanting to make the item as pleasing to the eye as possible. We all want everything to look as good as it can. But, when the blade is pitted, and the wood/horn is worm eaten. Shiny metal just looks out of place to me. I do believe in arresting active rust, and removing excessive crud. Not trying to ruffle any feathers, just want to understand the etiquette.

It may be the same as Japanese sword blades. They can be completely redone by a professional, and increase in value. Antique firearms, No.

10th December 2013, 01:49 AM	#1
trenchwarfare Member Join Date: Oct 2008 Posts: 385	Polishing Metal Parts I'm trying to understand something here. I have noticed a tendency, to polish brass, silver, copper, and other metals found on ethnographic edged weapon hilts, and scabbards. In the firearms world, and collecting of western military weaponry this is highly frowned upon. A polished Henry rifle brass frame, kills the value by at least 50%. Same is true on other brass firearm furniture. I understand wanting to make the item as pleasing to the eye as possible. We all want everything to look as good as it can. But, when the blade is pitted, and the wood/horn is worm eaten. Shiny metal just looks out of place to me. I do believe in arresting active rust, and removing excessive crud. Not trying to ruffle any feathers, just want to understand the etiquette. It may be the same as Japanese sword blades. They can be completely redone by a professional, and increase in value. Antique firearms, No.