I already posted this on Gunsmithing, but thought maybe it would be more likely to attract an answer if I repeat it here.

At a small gun show in the Shenandoah Valley of VA this weekend I was able to purchase a set of SB smooth combats with very nice grain (book matched and fairly fancy.) The bad news is that they have some finish wear that shows through on some of the high spots as grey and dull on the otherwise shiny red-brown surface... the good news is that they were priced accordingly.

Now for my question; Is it possible to "freshen up" the factory finish without a complete "re-do" involving complete stripping and a total refinish? I actually bought these to be used as carry stocks on my 6" Model 686, and making them look like show pieces isn't necessary, but a slight improvement would be in order. Suggestions??

Any and all good suggestions appreciated!
Froggie

You can clean all the oil, wax and dirt from the damaged areas then brush on a high gloss, solvent based clear urethane building up coats to match the thick factory finish.

NOTE:I would strip them with acetone and refinish with a high gloss wiping varnish like Formby's "Tung Oil" if they were mine. Not much more effort and easy to redo in the future. The two sets of combat grips shown on the 686 and 617-6 were purchased used. Both had many chips and scratches in the original varnish. Refinished with low gloss wiping varnish which I could easily change to high gloss by adding a couple coats of that type. The Formby's product drys much faster than traditional stock finishes like Tru-oil.

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Virtue,Liberty & Independence

Do not use a urethane finish!!! It was not used by the factory. Tru-oil is the closest you will find to the factory finish. How it is applied can be night and day difference. If the old finish is worn through in any location, you are better off to completely remove the old finish and start over. That is done with soaking in acetone and using a old tooth brush on the checkering.

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H Richard
SWCA1967 SWHF244

Doing a spot repair is never an easy task and being careful may not be enough to maintain an even finish. Also replied in the GS section.

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Sam
S&WHF 333 S&WCA 2198

This method mentioned, has always worked for me. Just take your time! Bob