Marshal - Thanks for the info. I think I'll try to work on a small spot of it and see how much labor will be involved in this case.

Hrm... that's interesting. Can't say as I've ever heard of these iron tannates. I guess the (fairly obvious) next questions is: How is this removed? The same as rust, or does it get deeper than this?

RenJunkie -

Thanks for putting that concern of mine to rest. I would have hated to know this dear friend of mine was ripped off or something. Perhaps it's just an older model no longer made... it is about 10-12 years old, I'm told.

Actually, two questions.... Over the weekend, I was gifted a viking-styled sword that needs a little TLC. The rust spots on the sheath I've already taken care of (by means of 2000 grit sandpaper and RemOil spray, got rid of the fake antiquing nicely too), and the leather is going to be conditioned a...