It is a blast finish then. Mostly a light coat of oil wiped on and off with a rag will help to stop corrosion.
Personally I use Vactra 4 Way oil as a protectant which is what my late father did when he had his Myford. He never had a problem, neither have I.
I suppose, why would they goop the handles up if they were all protected by some form of coating already, like they don't goop up the painted parts. Good idea on the way oil, but all I have is Vactra 2 so I'll have to go shopping
Thank you both for the input!
-Doug