soak it!
what I did with a revolver that I shot a lot was to soak the barrel and cylinder in kroil. overnight it REALLY softened the crud up. all I needed was a plastic screwdriver
i just paid s&w 175.00 to refinish a 686 no dash. if someone likes the polished look i don't think you are charging to much. if you put your heart into it, just let you're work speak for itself.
just an idea, how about a factory like refinish option