Restoring an Antique Golf Club
Can I restore an antique golf club that has a nickel-plated steel head?
Q. I have an antique golf club that belonged to my grandfather. It has a nickel-plated steel head and a wood shaft. While it is not useful to play the modern game of golf it has sentimental value and I wish to give it to my grandson. Can it be restored? –O.C.
A. I can't address the restoration of the wood shaft and grip, but yes, the nickel-plated steel head can be restored. Nickel is relatively easily stripped from steel. There also may be a copper flash under the nickel plate. This is not a project for the do-it-yourselfer. The head can then be replated with a bright nickel finish. The chemicals required for stripping of nickel are nasty. The stripping must be done so as not to damage the underlying steel substrate. You should be able to find a plating shop in your area that can perform the stripping and replating. Be aware that since this is a "one up" job, it will be expensive. But for a grandson, why not?
Related Content
-
Liquid Chrome Vs. Chromic Acid Flake
Contemplating how to continue offering chromic acid services in an increasingly stringent regulatory world? Liquid chrome products may be the solution you’re looking for.
-
Nanotechnology Start-up Develops Gold Plating Replacement
Ag-Nano System LLC introduces a new method of electroplating based on golden silver nanoparticles aimed at replacing gold plating used in electrical circuits.
-
How to Choose Between Sulfate and Chloride-Based Trivalent Chromium
There are several factors to consider when choosing between sulfate and chloride-based baths for trivalent chromium plating. Mark Schario of Columbia Chemical discusses the differences and what platers should keep in mind when evaluating options.