I use parafin, from an old candle, but you shouldn't worry about some rust,
the roughness helps hold the banjo and tailstock from slipping.
"Maxprop" wrote in message
news
What do most folks use to keep the ways from rusting, as well as the
headstock and tailstock sliding smoothly? I've tried grease and other
petroleum-based lubes (liquids), but they all foul with shaving dust
immediately, making a mess to clean up. Am I being overly critical, or is
there something that works well without collecting shavings?

Max