Advice on removing rust from helmet

[Davidvan]

Hi everyone,

My name is David and I am seeking advice on how best to remove rust from a helmet found in Volgograd. I am not looking for a restoration just to remove some of the rust. It’s currently falling off if I pick it up.

I have no idea what method to use and I am nervous as I don’t want to damage the soldiers name which he painted on the inside and the two outside emblems.

Maybe I can do a partial rust removal by hand instead of soaking it in acid?

Any suggestions are greatly appreciated.

Thanks so much,

David