Cleaning wood grips

1blindref · May 17, 2011

I just bought a very nice pre model 18 made in 1950 with original numbered diamond magna grips.
The gun is in very good overall condition, maybe 90 - 93%.

The grips are in good condition but appear to be dark and dirty. They don't need to be refinished, just cleaned.

What is the best cleaner and method of cleaning the wood without stripping the finish?

Thanks in advance!

fat tom · May 17, 2011

A little soap (Dawn) and water and a toothbrush. Dry 'em off and wipe 'em down with CLP. Might not be the accepted method,but it's been workin' for me for 25 years.
f.t.

The Shadow · May 17, 2011

1blindref .......... I've been using Ballistol to clean, preserve and restore metal, leather and wood for over 30 years. I'd apply a light aerosol spray application to the grips without removing them (don't be concerned about getting on metal) and rub in with fingers. Allow 5 minutes to penetrate the wood, and then use a moderately stiff tooth brush to clean in between the grooves. Wipe off with clean cotton cloth. I use the aerosol spray and squirt around the outside edges of the grips where they meet the metal, allowing some Ballistol to seep under the grips as well. To learn about this safe multi-purpose product, go to ballistol - The World's Most Useful & Environmentally Friendly Lubricant where it can be ordered on line at:ballistol.com.

When I'm done treating the wood and exterior metal on the gun and allowing to dry, I then apply a small amount of Renaissance Wax with my fingers and buff dry with a clean cotton cloth. This is also an incredible cleaning/polishing multi purpose product. To learn more and to purchase, go to: www.restorersupplies.com.

Let me know if you decide to follow my recommendations and your personal experience.

Shadow

OFT II · May 18, 2011

I use Murphey's Oil Soap. It's made for cleaning wood such as furniture and works well on dirty grips. If they are oil soaked you may need to put them in some acetone for a couple of days to get the oil out.

1blindref · May 18, 2011

Thanks for the suggestions.

I decided to use dish liquid and then Lemon oil. They came up pretty good for now but I might try the Murpheys down the road.

I'm afraid the acetone might be too harsh. I don't want to strip the finish, only clean up the 61 years of dirt and sweat.

Cleaning wood grips

1blindref

Well-known member

fat tom

Absent Comrade

The Shadow

Active member

OFT II

US Veteran

1blindref

Well-known member

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