Cleaning/Restoration Smith Pre 27

[Gray]

Hello,

I am in the process of trying to gently restore a 1956 Pre 27 I came across. The original bluing is in good shape minus some apparent carry/probably holster wear on sharp edges. Somewhere along the line the previous owner used white paint on the rear sight and some type of red paint on the ramp of the front sight. I was able to carefully remove the white paint on the rear sight using gun scrubber for synthetics and a nylon brush. The red paint on the front sight ramp is not responding so well. A little red came off but most of it still remains. I want to try and preserve the underlying original finish if possible. Also looking for a decent set of correct period grips since the gun came to me with the Smith rubber on it.

Would welcome any suggestions
Thanks- Gray

 

[g8rb8]

I have successfully and without damage removed paint or nail polish from a front sight. First I would try acetone. I use an old inexpensive paint brush with the bristles trimmed back so that they are stiffer and can be used mechanically to dab at the paint to help remove it. Let the acetone sit on the paint for a few seconds to a few minutes (you may have to add more as it evaporates) and then work on it with the tips of the bristles. Be patient and persistent. If that is not working then try a small, fine brass or bronze brush (carefully) with the acetone.
Good luck,
John

 

[Gray]

John- thank you - did not consider that nail polish might have been used. Will give that a try this afternoon.

Thanks- Gray

 

[mogwan]

using Acetone

Gray, remember acetone is not only nail polish remover- it is a very powerful solvent and will melt/dissolve many types of plastic and paint.

Be sure you keep a sharp eye for any drips or runs...also, when using it to remove painted on stuff, there will be a point where the pigmented stuff coming off will be VERY sticky...careful where you go with a brush, you may wind up with a sticky lump on your wife's table that has now become part of its finish.