"Instant antique for stainless-steel warriors!"

[Theodosius the Great]

Indeed a white vinegar (5% acetic acid v/v)/ table salt solution is a very effective way of 'aging' steel- you just have to be careful not to overdo it is all. You can stain a blade in just few seconds if you want that kind of look or you can submerge it for a time to get the results as shown on that website

Great to know :!: Thank you, Matt

I think there is a passage in Josephus where the Roman army besieging Jerusalem is required to turn out in shined arms and armor to receive their pay in full view of the defenders.

Right, which demonstrates my earlier point about the word "shine" being subjective. Now, what did he mean by "shined" :?: I don't dispute they shined their gear - the real question is to what degree. Some think it means mirror finish - not me though.