Reply by hhhopks

Isn’t the whole purpose of japaning is to restand all the harsh chemicals?

I would suggest using a wire brush or a dremel. You may try various type (disk, brush….etc). You should able to pick up some kind of rotatary tool pretty cheap (HF).

Sand blast will do it too but may remove too much and leave the tool pitted. I used to do that at work but have lost access since I changed job.

Personnally, I don’t like using chemical. Not a very enviornment friendly option. That is just my preference.

-- I'll be a woodworker when I grow up. HHHOPKS