Found at estate sale for 25 cents

[hamburglar3]

I think i remember Vaughan made good steel. Any ideas on how to refurb it? Thought it would make a cool GHB tool.

 

[7pt62THOR]

In for pics when 'ya got it finished!

 

[MAC CUSTOM KNIVES]

I wouldn't referb it. takes years to make that patina

 

[hamburglar3]

I have ordered a hickory handle for it. Really just want to re-finish the edge and clean the dirt/paint carefully.

 

[MAC CUSTOM KNIVES]

steel wool and oil

 

[JamesG]

NOooooooo!

Since its a working tool, I wouldn't bother. The paint is part of the character.

But if you insist,

See if the paint will peel off and sharpen it, Dip it in paint remover to remove the paint and gunk in the lettering with a gentle coaxing from a rag. Then a spray of WD-40. Then leave it outside to dry for a week or so and it will look exactly like it did.

 

[Buckeye76]

steel wool and oil

This is plenty. Maybe heat it up a bit w/ a blow drier and let a thick coat of oil sit on it for a bit. No paint.

 

[HydroAuto]

Doesn't look too bad actually, I'd probably try to get the paint splotches off of it and maybe rub it down (lightly) with steel wool/scotch-brite and some oil.

Some other options:
http://www.popularmechanics.com/home/tools/how-to/a14313/how-to-restore-rusted-old-hand-tools/
http://lifehacker.com/5897807/how-to-remove-rust-from-old-tools

 

[canoecanoe]

Nice axe head. Post some pics when you get it rehafted.

 

[thumpers01]

Put it in Vinger for about 3 or 4 days you will really be amazed ..oh it cleans metal good