Saving Your Treasures: Firearms

Types of Objects

FIREARMS

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Firearms, weapons, and other military items are functional objects that are often well used before they become heirlooms or museum objects. These objects can be made from many different materials, both inorganic and organic, including metals, wood, ivory, bone, fabric, leather, etc.

They are cared for by objects conservators or textiles conservators (for uniforms and flags). When in doubt, an objects conservator can help you determine who would be the most appropriate professional for advice and conservation. The videos below and handouts and websites on the right will guide you in the proper methods for preserving your items.

If you have any questions, ask a conservator.

Metals: Origins & Properties

Metals: Fabrication & Technology

Metals: Deterioration

Metals: Preventative Care

Harry Smith and his Frontier Rifle

Plant Materials: Structure

Plant Materials: Chemistry

Plant Materials: Technology

Plant Materials: Integrated Pest Management

Plant Materials: Deterioration - Environmental & Mechanical

Plant Materials: Deterioration - Chemical & Biological

Plant Materials: Preventative Care

TYPES OF OBJECTS