Grip Finish Question

[Erion929]

DROSing a 1957 Pre-29 and saw that the grips are nicely polished and shined. Is this generally done by tung oil and (Renaissance) waxing....or just waxing?

I want to get this shine on another revolver's grips, but don't want to wax first if I should oil first.....

 

[H Richard]

A lot depends on the condition your stocks are in. If in very nice condition without dings and scratches a wax job will do well. If somewhat dull and nicked up a light sanding and refinish with Tru-oil first. If well used looking and lots of wear you need to soak in Acetone to remove all old finish then give them 4-5 coats of Tru-oil (or finish of your choice).

 

[arjay]

Quite a few coats of tru oil or a poly would be my guess

 

[weatherby]

What is the vintage of the stocks you want to do ?
To me it would be important as they didn't always have a glossy finish.

 

[Erion929]

What is the vintage of the stocks you want to do ?
To me it would be important as they didn't always have a glossy finish.

Actually, it's a Colt....maybe I should've asked the Colt guys, but my Pre-29 example made me post here first

It's a 2.5" Diamondback from 1975.....but maybe, as you noted, they are meant to be non-glossy?
I've seen Target grips from the 4" and 6" Diamondback and they are more glossy. The 2.5" gets Service grips:

 

[MrG5122]

All of the pictures I've seen of full checkered Colt stocks plus the ones on my 3-5-7 lead me to believe the finish on yours are correct.

 

[Erion929]

Thanks MrG.....Seems to be, from the majority of what I keep finding.

Still kinda interested in at least Renaissance waxing, as they look so, uhhh, dry. Maybe I'll try a little spot on the inside of the grip....

 

[H Richard]

When I had a set of grips made by the original Mr Hogue, he told me there was no finish on his grips, just finely sanded wood. A coat of good carnuba wax every few years should keep them in good shape. I believe Renaissance wax would be just fine, but rub in with your fingers, a minimal amount, then brush out the checkering with an old clean toothbrush. Any wax you don't get out may turn white over time. Be sure to get it all rubbed in or removed.

 

[crsides]

I just sold a diamond back 2 1/2" with service grips that had a glossy finish applied. It looked sad. I stripped the finish (it could have been years of wd-40 accumulated, or tru oil) and added Formsby tung oil low gloss. May not be the look you are after, but they looked like factory.

Charlie