Sword Rusted Closed

QUESTION: I have a Civil War sword that has rusted shut. Any advice on how to proceed? Is there a method of wrenching it open that minimizes damage, or some sort of oiling that might work? (there isn't much room up top to oil...)

ANSWER: First thing to try would be to spray on some WD-40, and see if anything loosens. Otherwise, you might want to use CLR Clear - a product designed to eat up and destroy Calcium, Lime and Rust Deposits (hence the initials).

But try the WD-40 and some wiggling first.

Let me know how you go.

- Paul