[Ansteorra] New Crowns and Coronets

[Lori C.]

> I believe the main reason for "blueing" or similar
> treatments of metal is as a rust preventative. So I'm rather
> surprised to hear you say you find that they are rust
> magnets.
> Stefan

Yeah, rust prevention was the theory, but much depends on the process. Cold bluing is purely cosmetic and offers no rust protection. I'm told that hot bluing only offers protection on steel, and even that depends on the quality of the steel and the chemistry involved in the process. Maybe period bluing methods (like burning oil off of a piece in a very hot fire - similar to the WD-40/propane torch method mentioned in the Florilegium) work better for corrosion resistance. 

All I know is from people who tell me their blued armor must still be kept waxed and oiled (i.e. stored in an oiled towel) or it rusts like crazy. <shrug> Perhaps they knew I wanted a blued helm, but also know how lazy I am when it comes to cleaning my armor before putting it away. This is why my helm is stainless. :)  

~ Kat