I'm restoring an old World War 1 bayonet, about 10" long. How much would it cost to have the blade re-chromed?

Question

Upon further investigation, it turns out to be pre-WW1

Answer 1

I doubt it would ever have been chromed! If its rusty try soaking it over night in cheap coke (keep it off the 'handle' if wetness would damage it though, you could put it in a basin and wrap it in coke soaked paper maybe. You may find if you are planning on selling it that it is better not to clean it up - some collectors prefer the original as it is.
But coke will get off rust - its got phosphoric acid in it and blacksmiths use this to clean up their metal

Answer 2

I've ONLY seen chromed bayonets used by Ceremonial Units...

I'm also curious about a WWI era bayonet being that SHORT... quick research shows that the Brits, French, US, Germans all used long (20+ inch) bayonets.

My WWII era Model 1905 bayonet is straight steel had a "blued" metal surface (gone by the time I got it), and is about 14 inches in length.

I just cleaned it with a little steel wool, and keep it lightly oiled.

Try this site ( http://www.arms2armor.com/Bayonets/bayonets.htm ) to ID YOUR bayonet, and GOOD LUCK.

Answer 3

Are you thinking that re-chroming it would add extra value to it? It won't, if anything it will detract value because it's no longer classed as original, you may end up spending more than the final product is worth.

Answer 4

hmm like the first guy says but i would try and talk to a blacksmith about it before you do anything