Removing the make, model and serial number from a firearm does not bode well with law enforcement. Especially the folks with the BATFE.
Firearms that have been stamped (engraved) with the appropriate markings are fine to refinish but ones that are etched or laser engraved will more than likely obliterate any and all markings during refinishing and that is a big no-no. Kind of like pulling your VIN and tag off of your vehicle. You'll generate a bunch of questions if the firearm is ever seen be someone in law enforcement.
Here’s a link to another forum page where INBOOST explains the refinishing of his CS45 during a custom project he did himself. He even did the re-laser engraving and took a number of before and after photos.
My take on the S&W CS45
Here’s a link to the BATFE website which talks about the necessary markings and heights of the letters required on firearms.
http://www.atf.gov/publications/down...ions-sub-c.pdf
I think someone who possesses a firearm with an obliterated serial number would be looking at a minimum of 5-10 years in Federal Prison. Not to mention the possibility of hefty fines. I personally preferred to send my pistol back to Smith for them to refinish and reapply the markings bringing back to original spec.
I hope this info is helpful to you.