Shotgun Headstamp rust

Barneymartin3 · Apr 20, 2019

I love collecting headstamps. The hardest part is cleaning them but the ones that have got me puzzled are the Remington Expresses and Peters that have the primers that rust. The rust seems to bleed out over the brass and is impossible to remove. I've tried electrolysis and scrubbing with wire brushes but it only damages the headstamp and the rust on the brass stays. Any advice on removing the rust from the face of the brass headstamp? Here is a picture of some. Thanks!

Seaking406 · Apr 20, 2019

Have you tried soda blasting? I've been using it to clean up older coins with good results. It won't harm the metal but anything coating it or crusted on it will come off quickly (same process used to strip paint from metal parts etc)

jl1252 · Apr 20, 2019

Have you tried CLR? Ive used it on rusty stuff with good results. Just dont let it soak too long. Maybe try it on one youre not afraid of destroying as a test.

Country Dirt Kid · Apr 21, 2019

How about muratic acid? If you decide to go that route you should read up on how to handle it and protect yourself. Muratic acid is the good stuff so beware.

Mick56 · Apr 21, 2019

I run all mine through the tumbler with a load of pennies.

detectordeck · Apr 21, 2020

Headstamp inquiry

Barneymartin3
I use a mix of baths. Aluminum foil/baking soda then vinegar and lemon juice. Then Vaseline with skewer to rub off rust. I found this shotgun base in a 1800s ghost town on beach. 3/4” rim 5/8” inner shell case. Copper and no headstamp. I feel it may be a copper-brass transition shell dating back prior to 1870. Can you or anyone help with this info?

Shotgun Headstamp rust

Barneymartin3

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Seaking406

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jl1252

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Country Dirt Kid

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Mick56

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detectordeck

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