1907 sling ?

[jdsal]

I have a 1907 sling with brass hardware. The question I have is what is the buildup of the green crud all around the brass? I understand oxidation but this is like green grease it is so built up.
Some treatment to stop it it's really nasty and I've cleaned it more than once?

[george r]

Verdigris forms at the junction of leather and brass. I have no idea how to stop it. It is a form of corrosion of the brass part. In one old holster I have it was enough to fracture a snap fitting from the build up against the thinning metal. I think the presence of the leather provides enough water for the corrosion.
i just brush it away as it takes years to build up to a really heavy accumulation.

[emmagee1917]

Reaction from the titanic acid used to tan the leather and the brass . As long as they can touch , the reaction will continue . I believe some treatments can seal them up and slow the reaction down , but it can't be totally stoped.
Chris

[Johnny P]

That is verdigris and it is poisonous.

[John Sukey]

Titanic acid?

[Ben Hartley]

Titanic acid?

It's a BIG problem.

[Dan Shapiro]

I've used white vinegar on a Q-tip to clean it up. It seems to slow the process.

[John Sukey]

It's a BIG problem.

Agree, the Titanic sank after hitting an iceberg in 1911

[emmagee1917]

Ok , tannic acid then .
" Tis a poor man indeed , who can afford to spell a word only one way . "
Chris

[madsenshooter]

I've used white vinegar on a Q-tip to clean it up. It seems to slow the process.

According to this, one would think vinegar would accelerate the formation. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Verdigris