Scope mount on pistol

[RetE8USN]

Lately I've seen several Model 41s being offered with Weaver style scope mounts. As far as I know S&W never offered the 41 with pre-drilled holes for scope mounts. The one I just purchased has one and to me it is no big deal that the scope was mounted. I wanted to remove it and put filler screws in. When I took the base off, I found what I think is a "bedding compound" residue on the top of the frame. I don't want to scrape it off and hurt the finish and a patched soaked with WD-40 ( don't wince, I thoroughly clean it off right away) didn't do anything (although it is great for removing small patches of surface rust when need be). My question is how can I remove the residue without hurting the finish. The pistol is about 95 to 98% original finish and was made in 1978. All help appreciated!

 

[murphydog]

Senior;

I would first try to ID the substance, then you may have a better idea as to how to remove it. Soaking it with a gun-safe penetrating oil couldn't hurt while you research it, but I think bedding compound would be pretty water-, oil- and everything-resistant once it dries.

All model 41s since 1994 are drilled/tapped for optics mounts.

 

[RetE8USN]

Thanks for the reply. I was able to use a dental pick and dislodge a small piece. Translucent and green color.

 

[tomcatt51]

My question is how can I remove the residue without hurting the finish.

Put it in a ziplock bag, evacuate as much air as you can and throw it in your freezer over-night. Take it out of the freezer, let it come up to room temp and repeat the process a couple times. See if that loosens up the old bedding.

 

[RetE8USN]

Thanks! I'll give that a try.

 

[steelslaver]

If that doesn't work you can heat it up and soften it. Most epoxies soften up at higher temps. A hair drier would probably get it hot enough to soften. Acetone will also break down epoxies. You can get small bottles of acetone labeled as finger nail polish remover. Acetone should not harm anything other than painted finishes.

 

[H Richard]

Acetone will not hurt the finish.