I have heard of Renaissance wax as an effective way of preventing rust, but are other waxes effective as well? Like carnuba wax?

I've just never seen Renaissance wax anywhere so I'm wondering if anyone has expericne with any other kind.

If renaissance wax is the way to go, maybe a better question is... Are there any local stores that carry it, or must it be ordered?

Thanks,
Lance

I just use machine oil or sword oil. I use it often, since I use my swords often.

I haven't ever used wax, but know Renaissance wax is used a lot in the antique world. It's possible you might be able to locate it that way. Also, it is regularly available on ebay, though prices can vary wildly. I'm sure it can be ordered online, and again, I would suggest doing some price shopping. Keep in mind shipping costs when you make the comparison.

Hopefully, others will have more info for you. Sorry I couldn't be more help... :\

Just about any kind of wax should work fine. However, I gave up using it years ago since I found it to be more trouble than it was worth. It's fine for swords that are going to be hung on the wall and admired, but it doesn't last long on swords that are handled often as most of mine are. It's more of a hassle to reapply wax than it is to simply wipe the sword down with an oily rag before you put it away. This is one of those instances where the modern "quick fix" isn't worth the effort, IMHO.

One reason I like the Renaissance Wax so much is exactly for the reasons that Patrick mention: because other waxes are so difficult as to be barely worth the effort. Ren Wax nearly disappears when you put it on your item. It goes on so thin and hardens completely clear that it leaves nearly no trace behind. More than that, the application is painless. One simply uses a clean cloth and rubs it in. There's no worry if it's been applied completely evenly, too thick, too thin: it always works out just fine in the end. It's a very good product and I'd encourage its use. Even if you could find it locally, it's bound to be cheaper on the 'net and that's probably your best bet of getting a tub of it.

Patrick makes a good point, but if you DO decide to go the Ren Wax route, shop around! It is available from both MRL and By The Sword, but can be found much cheaper on several online woodcraft stores. MRL is $29 for 200ml / 7 oz. BTS is $28 for the same size. The online woodcrafts shops ususally sell the same amount for around $20. :eek: :wtf: I just use an old gun cleaning rag I have that is soaked with a combo of Hoppe's #9, 3-in-1 oil, and several others. :lol: It works great. :)

I use 3 in1, gun oil, and even some old McGuires auto wax.

All seem to work fine depending on what I'm trying to accomplish.

based on Nathan's feedbakc, perhaps I'll try some Ren wax when its resupply time.

Yeah I don't plan to cut with it, or handle it too often, its more symbolical and will be on the wall mostly. I'll probably start with wax and see how it goes. Seems to me I should be able to handle it a bit without much trouble, plus it would be nice to not have to wash my hands after admiring it. :D

Lance

On another topic thread a while back car wax was mentioned as possible rust protection.

At the moment I'm thinking of using car wax to protect the inside of my armour from sweat and humidity when wearing it. Will this work if applied lightly before putting on the armour and maybe using breakfree to wipe down after use ?

Any down side to car wax ? Any other waxes ? ( Not counting the previously mentioned Renaissance wax. Just looking for something easy to find.)

For swords an old gun cloth soaked in breakfree and a variety of gun oils seems to have worked well.

Why not just paint the inside of your armour or let it patinate in a controlled manner?

Yes painting could be a solution, but could you define the " patinate in a controled manner ": I assume that this is not just accumulating active red rust ? ( Excuse my ignorance here, it does seem better than worrying about the rust if the patination creates a protective coating. )

Also I will be learning something new to me :D

G. Scott H. explained it well: using a wire brush or steel wool to remove any active reddish rust (when there is any) and wiping it down without polishing will result in an even-forming layer of protective patina.

Thanks Nathan, seems like a good option. ( Good info in any case. )

Might look into the clear shoe wax also for this or other applications.

Once a good level of patination is achieved I guess waxing then might be an option. ( Maybe an un-needed option. ;) )

I found Renaissance wax for $20 at this site, though shipping is $6. But it was $38 at another site.

http://www.tools-for-woodworking.com/index.as...rodID=1304

Lance

Is butcher's wax the same thing or a vastly inferior wax for sword/armour protection?

Nathan

Lance;

Thanks for the site info for the renaissance wax: Have put it my favorites list and will look into it later.