I picked up 2 complete, dug canteens that came out of Fort Fisher decades ago. Lots of crusty, flaky rust, but pretty solid. I have plenty of experience treating and preserving artillery projectiles, tools, etc... but no previous time spent with thin items or stuff with solder, pewter.
Anyone have solid advice on dealing with the canteens? They seem to be somewhat stable and are in a dry environment. Really don't want to do any damage to them of course by doing something stupid. So, leave them be?