How do I remove major rust from old machete?

[gearfreak]

Cleaning out the garage today I found an old rusted machete. At first I was going to throw it in the trash until I managed to read that it was an Ontario Knife brand and had a very good handle. However, this thing was covered completely in pitted and flaking rust.

After soaking all day in mineral spirits, and grinding the metal down with a belt sander, there are still some major rust pits. Is there any way to get into these deeper pits to protect the metal?

 

[Esav Benyamin]

I had the same problem. I trashed the machete. I just don't think it's worth it.

But if you think it's still usable, go ahead and use it as is. Machetes aren't known for their elegant finish anyway.

 

[Aphthartos]

If it doesn't have some kind of special finish on it use barkeeper's friend and immediately rinse it off. If that doesn't work try some petroleum jelly on the blade, just spread it on real thick and let it sit for a day or so. Then wash it down and wipe it off real good. If that doesn't work then I dunno

 

[Will York]

<font face="Verdana, Arial" size="2">Originally posted by Aphthartos:
try some petroleum jelly on the blade</font>

I don't know about the petroleum jelly, but naval jelly will remove the rust. The black pitting will remain, of course. Any hardware store should have it.

 

[Jeff Clark]

Ontarios don't cost very much so I wouldn't spend a lot of money trying to make a pitted one look shiney. You might even consider painting the blade black. Otherwise just go buy another one.

If I found a 1960's vintage Collins I might go to more trouble. I really miss my old Collins.

 

[martin j]

you should be carreful w/ pits because it can be evidence of deeper damage to core. Even if you can't see it, it can be "structurally " weak under the surface. maybe for clearing light brush ok but i would'nt chop w/ it

sincerely
Martin