How to get rid of rust spots on O1 steel?

[MichaelMyers]

Disaster strikes. I was away on business travel and mom came to visit the house. While tidying the place. She wrapped up my O1 steel Natchez Bowie in newspaper and left it next to the bathroom. When I came back 2 weeks later. The blade has serious rust spots all over it. I tried removing one of the rust spots with a fine sandpaper but it left an ugly patch of polished metal and the rust spot is still visible. The blade is almost ruined in appearance now. Please help.

 

[Mr. Tettnanger]

Flitz or Mothers Mag Polish might help

 

[David Martin]

That is the characteristics of 01. It discolors and rusts easily. Try laying it in vinegar all day and night. This eats away at the rust. Then rinse, dry and rub with Flitz. Then keep mineral oil on it. DM

 

[Bill DeShivs]

If you soak it in vinegar, the blade will turn grey.

 

[TheDandyLion]

But a polishing compound like flitz or Barkeeper's Friend with scrub away the patina

 

[scott.livesey]

try a very fine scotch-brite belt.
scott

 

[David Martin]

If you soak it in vinegar, the blade will turn grey.

Yes, a little not much. I was able to scrub most of it off. And it's better than rust. DM