How should I care for my bayonet scabbard?

[Ridge Runner 0]

I sent a JAR bayonet and scabbard that I bought from a dealer over a year ago for $350.

The bayonet is in excellent condition. No pitting, rust or major nicks. Color is uniform throughtout.

The scabbard is in excellent shape also. If I remember correctly Joseph Scott told me over the phone that it is one of the nicer ones he has seen.

What should I do to preseve the scabbard correctly?

I assume I do not treat it at all......put do I seal it in a vaccume bag?

Any suggestions would be appreciated.

[Jim Peden 0]

Whatever you do, DO NOT used any cleaning or preservation product that contains petroleum derivatives. These are primarily sold as waterproofing compounds, such a Mink Oil and such.

Best to store it in the dark, i.e., away from ultraviolet light sources, which may weaken the stitching in time. Plastic bags can outgas polyethylene-based gases, and should be avoided.

Unless it is very dry, and cracking, do nothing but wrap it in acid-free paper and let it rest. Contact your local museum for acid-free paper, they'll probably even give you a sheet. It's rather thin, more like tissue paper in thickness.