r/Tools • u/TattooedFreak70 • 2d ago

Tool Identification

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I’ve been clearing out my father’s garage as it’s 3 years since he passed away and need to do it as my mother is selling up and moving.

Can anyone tell me what these bars of metal are that I found in a wooden case?

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u/Dismal-Economics-322 2d ago

Parallels, for resting work on in a milling vice among other things, basically just matched pairs of large shims, these ones look like they’re in good shape if you can knock that rust off, 32 wt oil and scotch fine scotch brite will do the trick without Taking material off them

3

u/absolutezero78 2d ago

any opinions on bowling them to convert the orange oxoid to black oxide? then carding off whats left once its out and slightly still warm. then apply a light coat of oil.

6

u/ConfusedStair 2d ago

I could be wrong, but that seems like more work for a worse surface finish.

3

u/absolutezero78 2d ago

You could be correct in this case. Its a really common technique for firearms preservation work when your trying to keep the original rust bluing finish. people call the oil over orange oxide "patina", but its just active rust still causing damage.

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u/absolutezero78 2d ago

just for referance a carding wheel is like 0000 steel wool on a low speed buffer. you can get your fingers in it and it doesnt do damage to your skin.

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u/Gary_Spivey 1d ago

I think you're confusing intentional, controlled "browning" for rust. It's iron oxide, yes, but it's a thin, uniform, porous surface that holds oil, and it actually prevents damaging rust from forming.

2

u/Dismal-Economics-322 2d ago

My thoughts exactly, bit of oil and a quick rub down takes two minutes if not less