Nickeled model 19-4

[jagd1305]

A couple of months ago I made a down payment on a factory nickeled model 19-4 with a 4 inch barrel. I now own this weapon which I have since discovered was a carry weapon by a LEO in Montgomery, Alabama. I have two questions for the knowledgeable members of this board:
1. This weapon came to me with considerable discharge residue still on the cylinder face and the forcing cone area of the barrel. I've used break-free and Kroil with a nylon brush but some residue still remains. I'm hesitant to use anything else for fear of damaging the nickel finish. Any suggestions?
2. The serial # is 44k2xxx. Any idea what the dob for this revolver is? I'm guessing '78 or '79.
Thanks guys!

 

[jagd1305]

A couple of months ago I made a down payment on a factory nickeled model 19-4 with a 4 inch barrel. I now own this weapon which I have since discovered was a carry weapon by a LEO in Montgomery, Alabama. I have two questions for the knowledgeable members of this board:
1. This weapon came to me with considerable discharge residue still on the cylinder face and the forcing cone area of the barrel. I've used break-free and Kroil with a nylon brush but some residue still remains. I'm hesitant to use anything else for fear of damaging the nickel finish. Any suggestions?
2. The serial # is 44k2xxx. Any idea what the dob for this revolver is? I'm guessing '78 or '79.
Thanks guys!

 

[S&W Oldtimer]

1978/79 25K0001-56K9999

 

[jframe]

Try some Flitz metal polish in an inconspicuous area. I've used it on my nickel Model 40-1 with pretty good results. I don't really clean these areas real hard, as long as residue isn't completely built up. Shows the gun has been carried and fired and gives it some character to me.

 

[Hoot]

Mothers Mag Wheel Polish works well for me. It's not quite as abrasive as Flitz, so you don't have to be quite as careful.

If you use a bore cleaner with ammonia in it (Hoppes #9 for instance) be very sure to get it all off. The ammonia can undermine the nickel plate and cause it to flake. I don't use anything with ammonia any more.