Rust on the muzzle

[Reacher]

Hello guys, new user from Italy here. Just bought an used M&P 15-22. Two boxes of 22lr and I already like it.
The problem is that I've noticed a bit of rust on the muzzle. Pic attached.
I was wondering if it is a good idea to try to remove it with 1000 grit sandpaper and some gun oil. It seems very superficial.
Any hint on how to do this without damaging the muzzle?
Thanks in advance.


p.s. Is this issue common? I've seen two other M&P 15-22 before buying this and both had some rust on the muzzle and the barrel.

 

[OKFC05]

I was wondering if it is a good idea to try to remove it with 1000 grit sandpaper and some gun oil

Might try superfine (0000) steel wool and gun oil, and rub lightly. Sandpaper will take off all the finish.
If you are in a humid climate, might try putting wax on the outside finish for better protection.

 

[Targets Guy]

Welcome to the forum. Try the 0000 first and keep it well oiled.

 

[bigggbbruce]

Rust is neglect... you bought it used.. original owner not meticulous I'd guess.

That's not the end you look from while shooting.

Piece of cotton some oil press with your thumb in a circular motion. Repeat a few times as you'll see color on the cloth.

Go shoot.

 

[GhostMutt]

Plenty of youtube vids advocating vinegar for rust removal...vinegar and a toothbrush...just don't damage your crown if you go at it with sandpaper.

 

[Targets Guy]

The thread title would make a good title for a country and western song.

 

[Reacher]

Cannot find 0000 steel wool anywhere. Gonna leave sand paper as a last resort. Already tried cleaning with cotton and oil but it wont work.
So vinegar and a toothbrush? Has anyone tried doing this on a firearm? Wont vinegar ruin the bluing?


@bigggbbruce usually rust means neglect, but this is not the case as the gun was the best kept used firearm I've ever bought.

 

[OKFC05]

Cannot find 0000 steel wool anywhere

In the USA, all the big hardware stores sell it, and Amazon sells it online. Never been to Italy, but somebody there must sell it for polishing fine finishes on wood, metal, glass.

 

[Warren Sear]

Vinegar will remove blue. DON'T USE IT!!!

Do not use sandpaper of any kind.

Use oil and an old tooth brush. Let the rust soak in the oil. It will eventually go away, or be greatly reduced. Anything more will damage the gun.

 

[andyo5]

Is the barrel really light blue like it appears in the photo? I haven't seen any 15-22s like that.

 

[Reacher]

Is the barrel really light blue like it appears in the photo? I haven't seen any 15-22s like that.

Nope, it's a standard barrel. The strange color is a problem with the cellphone camera.

 

[andyo5]

Nope, it's a standard barrel. The strange color is a problem with the cellphone camera.

That being the case, I would use fine steel wool or a brass bristled brush and remove the rust using a circular motion consistent with the curvature of the muzzle. When it is gone, clean the muzzle off with alcohol and use a cold blueing (actually flat black in color) such as Birchwood Casey Perma Blue. Follow the directions and repeat as needed. Remember when done blueing, stop the process by wiping with a wet cloth (water), dry it, and wipe with light oil or something like Birchwood Casey Sheath (my choice).

 

[peterdeb]

I would put a little WD-40 on a terry cloth rag, rub with a little elbow grease until rust is gone. wipe off the WD-40 then oil with a good gun oil.

 

[Reacher]

This is becoming harder than I thought. I've tried everything except the steel wool and sand paper.
Does anyone know what is the finish on the muzzle?

 

[97catintenn]

I would use steel wool if it bothered me. But in your case, then firing end of the barrel, I would write that off as being gun power residue and just keep it oiled.

 

[Majorlk]

This is becoming harder than I thought. I've tried everything except the steel wool and sand paper.
Does anyone know what is the finish on the muzzle?

The finish is blueing. Under no circumstances use sandpaper!!!

 

[cinnwalt]

Big 45 Frontier Metal Cleaner
This is the best item I have ever used for removing rust. Generally I'll oil the rust and let it set and then use the Big 45. It'll remove the rust and not the blueing. I have gotten pretty aggressive with it at times and still no issues. Good luck