Nickle Model 10 turning Satin

[jrd1976]

The previous owner said it was stored in a Hunter brand leather holster and turned over the years. Outside the leather contact areas (grip area, recoil shield, cylinder face), it is a bright nickle.

It has the capital "N" on the cylinder and the frame.

Sharp logo, address and barrel stamps, with no indication of a refinish, like covered over pitting.

The hammer and trigger are case hardened.

Is there a way to restore the nickle luster?

 

[JCS&W]

I take it certain areas on the finish are "cloudy or milky"? You can bring back the shine, but it will take some time and effort. I use Flitz, but others have said that Mothers Mag Polish works well also. Apply Flitz to the areas that are cloudy and milky with a soft cloth. Do not press hard, and turn the cloth when it become darkened. Then buff out and repeat if necessary. It may take several times to "bring back" the shine. Flitz is a polish, and any polish is abrasive so go slowly and carefully. Just do not press hard and do not use a buffer. I have had success on most of my nickel plated Smiths using this method. After the shine comes back, use Renaissance Wax to protect the finish.

I am sure there will be others who will give their thoughts on how best to "shine" up those areas of concern.

 

[kennyb]

i'm with jcs&w thats the exacy method i use and it does work...i have used flitz and more recently mothers mag polish

 

[mbliss57]

I just did a Model 19 with Flitz and Mother's. I used both products mentioned but the Flitz woked best as the gun was quite milky and Flitz is more abrasive. I'll put a before and after for you for comparison. When they say it takes some time... they are not talking 10 minutes. It took me several hours. I worked on mine over many days a little at a time. Patience is your friend.
BEFORE

AFTER

 

[Snafu12]

I like Mothers
This Colt was frosted when I got it

 

[dirty gary]

Everyone is sending you on the right path. Personally I like Flitz, and it takes a LOT of time. I find a Q-Tip is helpful in reaching the tight recesses where a cloth is too bulky. A good light source helps.

 

[cjtraining]

Witch Flitz? Paste in the tube or polish in the bottle?

 

[JCS&W]

cjtraining, I use the paste in the tube.

mbliss, that M19 looks really nice. Good job!

 

[jrd1976]

I tried the Flitz polish and this really looks promising.

Thanks for the good information.

I'd better take an "as is" picture now.

 

[JCS&W]

jrd1976, make sure you post pics when you have finished.