cleaning fingerprints

[Edfest]

Hello,

 

I know this topic has been touched upon (no pun intended!) in the past, but I'm still unsure of what is the proper way to clean off fingerprints... alot of fingerprints.

 

I just received a katana that I bought from an online auction (I know, I know... I blame my finger, because my brain was obviously not involved in the decision).

 

And it is literally covered in fingerprints; as if it was passed around amonst small children eating small sausages with a conspicuous lack of napkins!

 

What is the best way to clean the offending oils off of the blade? Should I just wipe it with a microfiber cloth? (I read the threads on that issue, but it seems as if I will just be wiping the finger oilds around the blade)

Or should I use bleach or turpentine? just kidding.

 

I've searched the forum and read the chapters in books on cleaning/care. I'm new to collecting and I'm hesistant to do anything that might do harm. I've read about using alcohol, but I'm not sure I want to use anything caustic.

 

Any suggestions?

 

Thank you in advance!

 

-Ed

[cabowen]

Isopropyl alcohol, acetone, or the like will clean off the oily prints and not harm the blade.

[Edfest]

Excellent!

Thank you.

 

Ed

[Ken-Hawaii]

But don't forget to lightly oil the blade after you've used the alcohol, Ed!

 

Ken