<climbing on soapbox>

Synthesizing the results of the discussion here, I think the
answer may be clear. I am not an expert but putting together
all the information from those who profess to be such:

MIM is hard all the way thru but slightly more porous. This may
be an advantage to hold the slight amount of lubricant necessary.
No one doubts the hardness or function of the forged parts.

Hence I call BS on the guy who claims MIM can't be effectively
polished for action surfaces. It doesn't have to be spacecraft
worthy, only smooth enough to work properly and hold a very little
oil.

<falling off soapbox>

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Nemo