I'm cleaning a no1 mk3* that I just got from another good member and when I took the wood off, I found the metal looked like new, but had a coating of what I assume is some sort of mustard coloured rust preventative. Is this from it's original factory refurbishment (marked RF/48)? Do I scrub it off and oil, or, seeing as everything looks fantastic, just oil over it?
Shtle no1 mk3* clean-up question...pics, not modem friendly
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Yup, I personally think that is part of the rifle's "character". But, if some rust found its way into the metal (which could be, hard to tell on a picture), you'd want to remove the rust and keep it oily or greasy.
For the spots where you may need to clean the metal and that will later sit again under the wood, I am wondering what many of us milsurp fanatics use (since you probably won't find the same stuff that the folks at the arsenals used). You'd want something that would stick, and not flow much, even when heated. But also something that won't harm the wood. I've had reasonable results with plain, simple vaseline - which is the closest I found to what the Lee Enfield Armourer's book calls "red jelly"...
For the spots where you may need to clean the metal and that will later sit again under the wood, I am wondering what many of us milsurp fanatics use (since you probably won't find the same stuff that the folks at the arsenals used). You'd want something that would stick, and not flow much, even when heated. But also something that won't harm the wood. I've had reasonable results with plain, simple vaseline - which is the closest I found to what the Lee Enfield Armourer's book calls "red jelly"...
Lou, one of the best preservatives out there is a good water proof paste wax for furniture. It goes on clear, extremely thin and blocks both air and moisture. I use it on the examples I don't shoot or intend to take down.
Just last week, I pulled apart a No1 MkIII that was picked up 35 years ago. It was treated in such a manner. It has been stored properly but still, things such as rust, can and do happen. It was still shiny and bright under the wood and even on the exterior. I must add, I keep desiccant in the safe as well.
I also use it in the bores. Bugs don't like it at all, so there aren't any surprises in the bore that can also cause rust.
I use clear Johnsons Paste Wax, I also use it for release agent when glass bedding.
It's great stuff and comes off easily with a bit of varsol.
Just last week, I pulled apart a No1 MkIII that was picked up 35 years ago. It was treated in such a manner. It has been stored properly but still, things such as rust, can and do happen. It was still shiny and bright under the wood and even on the exterior. I must add, I keep desiccant in the safe as well.
I also use it in the bores. Bugs don't like it at all, so there aren't any surprises in the bore that can also cause rust.
I use clear Johnsons Paste Wax, I also use it for release agent when glass bedding.
It's great stuff and comes off easily with a bit of varsol.
After a really close look I found... nothing. No rust at all. I chose just to brush off loose material, lightly oil everything metal and leave it alone. I searched all over (off this site, heaven forbid!) and many collectors felt it devalued the rifle to remove the rust preventaive paint. My feeling was that if it's done such a great job for the last 60 odd years,what do I know better. Besides, you cant see it when its under the wood. All the wood is matching, barrel stamps match receiver and all other parts (except the bolt) the rifling is crisp enough to cut you and shiny after cleaning. I think I'll steam some dings and leave this one alone- other than shooting it of course. I'm super pleased with how honest this rifle is, like finding a mint classic car with nothing more than a tear in the seat. Thanks again Marba!
