Any Ideas?

[Virginian]

I've read that you shouldn't clean the tang on a sword at all, but this one is pretty rusty. Can I do anything to improve the condition without hurting it? This sword is another of the ones my grandfather captured during WWII. I'm sure it's impossible to identify in its current condition, except for the stamp. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

Thanks, George VO

[PNSSHOGUN]

From memory that is the Kokuin or hot stamp of Asano Kanezane, a fairly famous WW2 smith due to the large amount of documentation on him in Japanese military sword books. There is more information here: http://japaneseswordindex.com/kanezane.htm

 

As for the Nakago or tang some oil and an old tshirt to remove only the active red rust is acceptable for a sword like this.

[Virginian]

Much thanks!

George VO

[Stephen]

tap lightly with old wood spoon to remove flaky rust 

[Virginian]

Thanks Stephen.

George VO

[Surfson]

I have done the above and then used a piece of deer horn antler to rub the surface.  Since the horn is much softer than the steel, it only removes the softer rust.  Some may disagree, but I think that once you have removed all of the rust that you have patience for, you can put some light choji oil on it.  

[Virginian]

Thanks Robert. I have plenty of deer antlers laying around!

[ROKUJURO]

George,

you can add your name to each post via your profile. That makes it easier to sign.

The legibility of the MEI could be improved by better focusing and by showing the photos tip-up (and without HABAKI).

When using deer antler (or bone which is basically the same material), cut the pieces in a way that they have a sharp point on one side. The material won't damage the steel.

[nagamaki - Franco]

If mine, in addition to the previously mentioned gentle persuasions, I'd keep the nakago coated with sword oil, wiping, dabbing, the excess off with a soft absorbent material/cloth, except for leaving a heavier coating on the more rusty spots (for now). In time, check it daily, what you'll see begin happening is the red colored rust turning darker and eventually black. Which is what you want to see happen. At which point only the lightest film of oil, hardly noticeable, will suffice.