Gunsmithing Best Way to Polish Out Scratches Stainless 1911

[NorthernBorn]

Just picked up a Colt Delta Gold Cup 10MM and it has some light scratches on the slide that I would like to get rid of.

What would be the best way to buff these scratches out without damaging the finish of the slide? They're light scratches... no gouges or anything.

 

[mbrittan]

Re: Best Way to Polish Out Scratches Stainless 1911

You might try a ScotchBrite pad, going with the grain of the factory finish.

 

[Downzero]

Re: Best Way to Polish Out Scratches Stainless 1911

Get it bead blasted, everything will disappear.

 

[Mr_Brass]

Re: Best Way to Polish Out Scratches Stainless 1911

Sand blast it.... Lol

 

[Killer Spade 13]

Re: Best Way to Polish Out Scratches Stainless 1911

Progressive wet/dry sandpaper STARTING at 1000 grit. Progressive meaning starting at 1K and getting finer if needed and a VERY FLAT surface.

 

[RADcustom]

Re: Best Way to Polish Out Scratches Stainless 1911

I would use the dark red colored scotch brite pad. It will leave a brushed finish instead of polished. You will need to do the frame too to make it match.

Follow the original direction.

 

[sawman556]

Re: Best Way to Polish Out Scratches Stainless 1911

I usually use a flat piece of marble or 1/4" thick tempered glass and lay my sandpaper on that. I use grits from 320 to 2000 depending on the depth of the scratches or my desired finished look. If you're looking for a brushed look I find 600 to work well. You can also use a block of wood or something as a straight edge. It will help make it look professionally done. There is also glass bead blasting if you want an even matte finish. Or you can blast it then do the flats with the brushed look. The only issue you might have is the plunger tube. You might need to hang it over the edge of your flat surface or if possible remove and re-stake it when you're done. If you go the brushed route make sure you get a truly flat surface. A 1/4" piece of tempered glass the size of a piece of paper can be had pretty cheap from a local glass shop. Have them sand the edges so you don't get cut.

The glass plate also works great for sharpening knives, plane blades and chisels. I don't waste money on expensive Japanese water stones anymore. The glass works better and stays flat.

 

[skep_tic1]

Re: Best Way to Polish Out Scratches Stainless 1911

Holster wear should fix it right up