1864 Springfield Rifle and Officer's Sword

[rfh1317]

Hi guys,
My grandfather handed me down an 1864 Springfield rifle and what I believe is an officer's sword. They are both corroded and I was wondering how (or even if) I could clean them. I will attach photos of both and from my research, lots of people have suggested Mineral Spitits, Kroil oil or even just Lime Away for the metal and I'm not sure if I should even touch the wood. I'm hoping for someone's help as I have never restored a firearm before, just shot and cleaned. Also, I am not really worried about depreciating the value of the musket by cleaning it, I am just looking to display it so polishing and brushing isn't a big deal. Thanks for the help!
~RM

Photos: http://s1057.photobucket.com/albums/...317/?start=all

[LibertyHallVols]

Resist the temptation to "shine up" relics or monkey with them. They are what the are and collectors value the story told by the accumulated grime, corrosion, bumps, dings, and dents. You objective should be to stabilize their condition, preventing further corrosion and deterioration, not to remove it.

[Elaine Kessinger]

Being a "junior member" with only three posts to your credit I've given you the courtesy of erasing my snarky retort and I'll phrase it differently.

This folder is for topics related to civilian life, civilian experiences, civilian attire and material culture, and the unique challenges of presenting period civilians. A Springfield rifle and an Officer's sword are both military items, so your post properly belongs in a military folder.

...and Mr. Wickett is correct. Don't monkey about with originals.

If you'd like to know recipes the Original Cast would have used to maintain similar items, consult a domestic manual such as "Miss Beecher's Domestic Receipt Book" or ask your Sargent.