[Milsurplus] Leather and canvas rejuvenation

[David Ross]

For rejuvenating old brittle leather, I have had real good luck with 
Saddle Soap from Tandy Leather.  It comes in a spray bottle -  I suggest 
that you put on several heavy coats before you even try to flex the leather.

go to:
<http://www.tandyleather.com/>
search for:
Liquid Glycerine Saddle Soap 16 oz. Pump 2302-00

If you apply Saddle Soap after you have filled the leather's pores with 
neatsfoot oil or linseed oil or 90W or whatever, I doubt that the Saddle 
Soap will do you any good.



In the past, I have had both good & bad experiences with neatsfoot oil. 
  Now I hear that neatsfoot oil is not compatible with horsehide, that 
it will harden horsehide.  Sorry I can't tell you how to tell cowhide 
from horsehide...

You might look around on a horse & horse information website -  horse 
people have lots of $$$ invested in their tack and generally know how to 
take good care of it.  A couple of items gleaned from tack care posts:
  -  a little mildew is a sign of healthy leather, it indicates that
     the leather is not too dry.
  -  petroleum-based neatsfoot oil bad, natural neatsfoot oil good
  -  neatsfoot oil will darken leather
  -  olive oil is good for leather.

Dave Ross    N7EPI