Rust

[arjay]

There is a 2 digit python on one of the auction sites that has a fairly steep reserve and a condition problem I haven't dealt with.It has an ugly blob of rust out near the muzzle.My question to the experts is what do you do with that? Leave it as is?

 

[jaykellogg]

Is it pitting?. If it is just red surface rust, I would try 0000 steel wool and gun oil.

 

[arjay]

It's a fairly small patch (1/2" x 1/4 ") but heavy enough that I'm sure it's pitted below it.Being a 1st year python and having a reserve north of 4k,I just wonder if the gun loses value if you try to clean it up.

 

[jaykellogg]

The steel wool and gun oil will reduce the rust a bit without removing any blue. Cleaning that removes original patina is a no-no. I have reduced a rust spot on many rare handguns without affecting the overall look of the gun.

 

[BigBill]

Is it holster wear that rusted?? If so i would reholster it till it wears off.

 

[tacreload]

My opinion for what it is worth.I hate rust.Apparently it isn't surface rust or they would have removed it before they posted pics.If it is pitted then the rust is into the frame.It probably can be restored but not to original condition.If that revolver has a reserve of over 4 thousand I believe I would take my time and keep looking .The seller is apparently trying to take advantage of the Python phenom.Even if I had that kind of money I don't think I would let myself get sucked into that.

 

[arjay]

Me neither,I think the reserve is pie in the sky.Just wondering what one does with a rare and expensive gun in that condition.I already have a mint condition python from the 60s.

 

[Rule3]

If I had $4K to spend on any gun, it would not be one that had any rust, scratches or other defects unless it was some vintage gun or from WW II where you would expect such things.

JMO and I do not know what drives it but prices for Colts is insane.

 

[arjay]

I was collecting Colts for several years before I started with the Smiths and thought the prices were nuts then!