442 Grip Screw Rust

[EricR]

I did Google the subject and saw that it's certainly not a new topic. Am referring to surface rust on the head of the stocks screw on my 442. It's my EDC and almost always is in a DeSantis in my front pocket, whether cargo shorts, jeans, or dress slacks.

This revolver is otherwise in great shape. It get's wiped down plenty enough and when it's shot it receives proper cleaning. But the rust will pop up on the head of the grip screw. Probably the tiniest problem in life I have at this moment but this is a S&W forum so what the heck. Anyone know if there's a stainless steel aftermarket screw? Only recently I thought to coat the screw with Ren wax but I'm seeing that red surface rust coming back.

Appreciate any comments. But it is my carry weapon so I'm not too uptight about such a minor thing. I just don't like rust.

Thanks,
Eric

 

[VictorLouis]

If you're not backing the screw out, you're likely missing the rust that's gathered along the sides of the head. Pretty easy for it to migrate back up into place. I can say I've not experienced any rust issues with either Ballistol or EEzox wipedowns and Desantis nylon pocket rig carry.

 

[EricR]

If you're not backing the screw out, you're likely missing the rust that's gathered along the sides of the head. Pretty easy for it to migrate back up into place. I can say I've not experienced any rust issues with either Ballistol or EEzox wipedowns and Desantis nylon pocket rig carry.

You are exactly correct, I'm not backing out the screw for the wipedowns that might be once a week at times. And likely contributing to my issue is that I'm doing this maintenance wipe down with homemade silicone cloths. I had liked the idea of silicone as it was fine for rubber, steel, alloy. But your point is well received.

For revolvers I'm shooting regularly, too often to receive Ren wax, I wipe them with CLP. Never in my lifetime have I had rust issues when using CLP. But for my EDC I guess I'm just too lazy to back out a screw on a regular basis. Like I said, not a huge issue and it is one I may just be content living with. Clean the screw once a month or so.

 

[S&W Rover]

I read a long article on the Internet once about various oils and lubricants and their ability to prevent rust. Most did not last long or do well unless reapplied often. The article pointed out Hornady One-Shot cleaner and dry lube (not to be confused with Hornady One-Shot Case Lube for reloading) was among the very best rust prevention lube.

Added: Here is the article - Comprehensive Corrosion Test: 46 Products Compared : Day At The Range

For a grip screw, you'd only need a drop!

Added: Hornady's One Shot cleaner and dry lube strikes me as a good product to apply to the area under revolver grips, too.

 

[EricR]

LOL, I guess I could take the time for a drop. Thanks S&W Rover!!

 

[haywood]

I spray Ballistol on a toothbrush and clean my grip screws once in a while.

 

[civil1977]

I had the same issue. Took the factory screw to Home Depot and picked up a stainless steel equivalent. Easy fix.

 

[Richard M]

I pocket carry my 642 and my grip screws always rusted. When i sent it out to a pistolsmith for some work, i had him fit some stainless steel grip screws. It was only $2.00 and well worth it.

 

[NPV]

I had the same issue. Took the factory screw to Home Depot and picked up a stainless steel equivalent. Easy fix.

I need to get to home depot, that sounds like the least costly option.