I thought i had posted about this old brace previously, but i can’t find the thread.  It’s a Brown & Flather from Sheffield Eng, c 1848.   I want to restore it a little: fix the splits in the wood, and polish the brass.  
Here’s the problem: i can’t get some of the screws out.  They look like hand made brass … a couple of the slots are off-center … and i really don’t want to snap the heads off.  Any ideas?   PB Blaster?  

@John Moody has a large collection of very old hand tools. He may have an idea. Also @steven newman is our resident rust hunter and may also have some hints.

 

I love it the way it is!

People say not to take away the old patina, it kills the value.  This one cost $25 … i think the value can only go up.  If the wood wasn't split so badly i would consider leaving it alone.  

Beautiful find Ed. Thinking, well typing out loud, what about concentrating some heat on the screw head via a solder iron or solder gun? I'm assuming the screws engage into the wood versus being through screws to the opposing side plate?

Might try a drop of WD 40 if you insist on trying.

Try insert driver in slot and give it a tap, could be some crud holding it in