Although cosmoline is a good protectant, it will get drier & harder to remove over time. It also prevents one from looking at the blade in it's natural state, which is something we, as collectors, appreciate seeing. I usually ensure the bayonet is clean, & then apply a lite coating of Ballistol to the blade. This is not oil, but parrifin-based, and non-acidic. A lite coat inhibits rust, and as a lubricant helps reduce potential retention spring wear as the bayonet is removed and replaced in the scabbard.
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