Jose,

I understand you wanting to preserve it the way it was when you got it, but to use it is to honor it, and him. I would wax it heavily, as you said, and try not to worry too much if it acquires a bit more patina.

Think about it like this ................. whoever inherits it after you're gone may appreciate that patina that you put on it. I believe my sons or grandsons would.

SRH

May God bless America and those who defend her.