Does anyone out there know for certain what causes the "plum" colored discoloration on some parkerized finishes? It seems to be primarily in high wear areas.
I have a very nice Navy Victory (at bottom, in the pic) with this issue. Actual coloring is not as bad as shown in the flash pic, but is quite evident. I've seen this on several other Victories as well.
Thanks for any thoughts/comments.
John

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It looks like patina or rusting of the base metal.

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Dick

I heard years ago it was evidence of high nickel content. I was recently told by a very good gunsmith it's an indication of silica in the steel.

Dave

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RSVN '69-'71
PCSD (Ret)