With these old firearms they're not using "stainless steel". You have to keep the barrel and other metal parts lightly oiled. Try NOT to touch them (the metal barrel) with bare hands as well because the oils on your fingers can also cause issues (that even goes for modern firearms).

I think you mentioned that an entire new stock was made for the weapon.., so taking that into consideration you can polish and stain that up any way you want. With old firearms so many people don't realize how they destroy the value by doing extensive cleaning. With an old powder pistol (revolver) for example..., people get the urge to clean and polish the grips.., and to shine the brass. That's a HUGE NO NO! Grips (as well as stocks for rifles) need to be in good condition with ALL the natural petina. Brass needs to be left alone as well. Oiling the metal is ok to do, but must not be overdone.

Removing the rust from the barrel can be done in several ways. With old firearms.., I've seen people use a VERY VERY VERY lightly abbrasive pad with a touch of gun oil. Go to your local firearms store and let them know you gotta an old flintstock and you need something to get the muck off the barrel... They should be able to get something to ya that'll do the trick. I've never had to go beyond some light oiling on old firearms when dealing with a little rust. Also if you end up using a slighty abbrasive pad.., BE VERY CAREFUL. Remember RUST is CANCER to metal. Scrubbing to hard with something overly abbrasive will remove the rust AND metal. You'll then be left with severe pitting.

I haven't used Skype in a very long time. I would doubt it if my screen name still worked as I've not used the account in a VERY long time.. It may even have been years!

[This message has been edited by squeak_D (edited 03-11-2009).]