Big mistake

[Cities n Dust]

The other day I was cleaning a SS gun and found a spot on it and did the dumbest thing you can do. I rubbed it till it decided to polish up in that single spot now the gun has a high shine about the size of a out of round dime. I very much so would like to get it back to its original state. I do not want to polish the whole gun as I do not like high polished SS guns. Nothing wrong with them just not for me.

Any suggestions on how to "dirty" it back to where I started from? I have heard Cigarette ash but that sounds unrealistic.
Just looking to dull the spot back too close to its original appearance. Anyone have experience in this? Is it even such a thing that you can do?

Cities

 

[dusty3030]

Scotch brite pads. Rub with the grain.

S

Thread 'Scotch Brite and stainless'

Mar 12, 2022

I’m in need of a tutorial on working a Scotch Brite pad on a 686-3 2.5” that has some serious scratches. I have photos in the 1980-present section.

It’s at the gunsmith now getting a deep cleaning and the action smoothed up. He gave me a red pad to use, I don’t want a high polish look at all, closer to the frosted of the 64 NY-1 or the light bead blasted look my late dad had done on his 686 no dash.

Has anyone done a short video? I’ve always been more of a visual learner. Also any photos of stainless revolvers that have received the pad treatment that aren’t high polish greatly...

• S&W Fan
• Replies: 27
• Forum: S&W-Smithing

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[65Whelen]

I agree, scotch bright pad but you have to have the correct grit. I've used the light gray one on my 629, it's very gentle and gives that satin finish. The light gray is equivalent to 0000 steel wool. Double check that I haven't bought them in awhile.

And also agreed, polish with the grain. Don't polish back and forth, that can leave small swirl marks. I only apply pressure on the forward stroke lift and repeat.

Once again make sure it the right grit pad.

 

[Cities n Dust]

I used the grey pad as Suggested. It worked Perfect. I also used it on some other Guns I have in SS that I bought that were really good deals and planned to use as shooters.

Special Thanks to Dusty3030 and 65Whelen for writing back and the others who "liked" their post as 2nds

Cities

 

[chief38]

Stainless guns and Scotch-brite pad play very well together!

 

[ACORN]

I’ve revived many SS revolvers with a gray Scotchbrite and a little oil, like Balistol.
It isn’t difficult.
Just as said go with the grain of the original finish.