camphor (for rust inhibitor)- where can I get it??

An old machinist once suggested that I put a piece of camphor in each drawer of my machinist tool box to prevent oxidation. He said "just go to the druggist and buy some camphor". Sounded too easy- and a bit too 1950's to be able to buy pure camphor. And sure enough- no drug store I've found sells pure camphor. Most of the kids working there had no idea what I was talking about. If there ain't a tv commercial for it, it ain't at the drugstore.

I even went to a special drugstore that sells "compounds", but no luck.

Now, mentholatum contains 10% camphor and vicks has 7%. Maybe that will do the trick. Is this going to be my only option? The machinist said that it comes in a stick, and you expose a small corner- that's all you need.

If anybody knows where I can buy the stuff, please let me know. In the meantime I'll try a little mentolatum (I love the smell, btw). Maybe it will clear up the precision tool congestion in my machinist chest...

How about eBay?

http://cgi.ebay.com/SANTERIA-CAMPHOR-BLOCKS-ALCANFOR_W0QQitemZ5658963831QQcategoryZ16710QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

Any old-timers remember back around 1954 how we used to hang a lump of camphor around our necks to avoid getting polio? This was just before the Salk vaccine came out.

Wow- you can buy anything on ebay. Thanks for the link. .025/block- not bad. I bought 20 of 'em. We'll see if I get sick of the smell...

Did you get some voodoo or occult items from that seller also?

Les

Wal Mart. The pharmacy will order you the one lb package of 16 1 ounce blocks.

John

Don't go to a special drug store, find a good one. Wallgreen's would be the best chain if you don't have an old Rexall store. My dad is a retired pharmacist and I've used "camphor gum blocks" for years. If the store doesn't stock it, they can order in 1 lb. packages (16-1oz. blocks). Wholesale is about $20 from Abco (stock # 1600127) or about $29 from Humco. Both are per pound.

When you get them in, just cut a slit in the wrapping and put in your box. Depending on humidity, air circulation, etc. a block should last 3-9 months.
JR
JR

Dang! no one told me about the camphor to prevent polio.
Guess I was lucky not to contract it.
Another narrow escape!

Had a classmate who got polio shortly before the vaccine was available. Ruined one of his legs, and he was destined to be an NFL running back for sure.

RIP, EJ.

Your local witch store should have it.