38 Combat Masterpiece

[Oldengineer]

I have a mid-1950’s 38 Combat Masterpiece, serial number K233767 that has non-relieved diamond target stocks. The stocks are in excellent condition…..except for the high gloss, rattle can spray job with what looks like polyurethane. I’m ready to strip them with acetone and want to know if there is an easy way to determine if the stocks have plastic medallions? I’m not really interested in melting them in an acetone bath! Any and all recommendations are appreciated.

Tom H

 

[DARE]

Have heard that the plastic medallions are from the 1951-1953 era. Mid 50's should be ok.

 

[JP@AK]

K233767 probably shipped in 1955. You should be fine, as David noted.

 

[Vtgw938]

Question made me wonder how the plastic ones were attached. Would there be a peened over post on the backside with the stock circle insert?

 

[Engine49guy]

The plastic ones have the pin melted a little so they hold the washer circle thingy.

Problem is you don't know what year the stocks were made even if you had proof those stocks were original to that gun as most shipped with Magnas.
Look closely the plastic and the steel medallions look very different than the nickel brass.

 

[Oldengineer]

After close inspection I submerged the stocks in acetone. After about a hour, the offensive spray …….whatever it was, washed off with a little toothbrush activity. All is well. The original finish is intact as well. Thank you guys for allaying my fears. I’ve been after those stocks for a while and they look soooo much better.


Tom H.