Number removal

[gutterman]

What is considered the best way to remove a lightly etched serial# on a blued gun? I have a real nice 5 screw 4" pre model that is in great shape, but someone decided to etch a number into the "frontstrap" right above the mainspring screw. Just looking for someway to remove it without alot of blueing damage. I can cold blue the area when done, but if it looks like it would cause more damage to the gun, then I'll just leaving it alone. Suggestions?

 

[arjay]

There really is no way to remove it without destroying the finish.If you put some diamond magnas and a Tyler t grip on it,it would look period correct and hide the chicken scratches.

 

[gutterman]

Never thought of just hiding it......thanks!

 

[glowe]

gutterman - I would first ask what is the value of the gun now? I assume it is a standard K frame and in good shape, they are $350. Guns with previous owner markings are more difficult to sell and if it were gone, it would improve the appeal of your 38.

It obviously bothers you and the marking is in the easiest place to remove. You can sand off the numbers and use a Oxpho-Blue Creme to restore the finish. Start with 200 grit and work down to 400 to 600 grit. Warm the surface by running hot water over the area until the area is as hot as your water. Dry and apply bluing using 0000 steel wool to scrub it into the metal, then re-heat and re-apply bluing with a small cloth of Q-tip as many times as needed until you get the color you want.

. . . or put an ugly black rubber stock on the gun . . . either way, problem solved.