| For helmets made with metal shells, as well as the silver and brass fittings of leather helmets, once rust has established itself on the surface it is very difficult to remove. For light active rust, it can often be removed by using a very fine 0000 steel wool with a good gun oil as a lubricant. Be aware, that this will only remove light surface rust and could scratch the surface of most metal. If the rust has resulted in pitting to the metal itself, little can be done except to stabilize the metal with a light coating of a petroleum distillate cleaner lubricant preservative (CLP) or a good quality gun oil. Corroded surfaces may benefit from the use of Renaissance Metal De-Corrodor, a solution that soaks into and breaks the bond between corrosion and metal surfaces. However, any chemical rust-remover may be easier on the surface, but on silver or brass fittings it will remove the patina and change the appearance of the helmet. On an Other Rank's (enlisted) helmet this is acceptable if you clean all the metal fittings as they will soon tarnish. But this is absolutely not recommended for gilding on officer's helmets. |
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