I have inherited a shoe box of my Grandpa's pocket knives. Some are Case, Imperial, Schrade, off brand. I want restore them a bit, keeping them original and then put them in a display case to give to my Dad. These knives were a carpenter's pocket knife and some have chipped blades, or cracked and stained handle material. That is not an issue. The problem is the rust on the blades.
Here is what I've done so far. Soaked them in a rust remover, and rinsed. Then buffed lightly and rubbed out with a brass brush and q-tips. Resoaked and then rinsed in water and then alchohol.
They begin to rust again, though. Here is what I'm think I'm going to do. Get them clean as possible (patina doesn't bother me, as stated I wan't them to retain the worn look) then soak in Linseed oil for a few days. Remove and wipe as much off as possible. This should not leave much of a film or oiliness on them after it dries and once in the case, they should be good to go. Right?
Also, the linseed oil won't harm or discolor any of the handle materials, brass, etc.
Any suggestions are appreciated.