How To Clean Stainless Steel Pistol? Top 36 Best Answers

How to remove and polish scratches on stainless steel

Grind those ugly scratches in your shiny stainless steel surfaces.

Family Handyman Buff out ugly scratches in your shiny stainless steel appliances with fine sandpaper and abrasive paste. You may also like: TBD Time One hour or less Complexity Beginner Cost Less than $20

How to remove deep scratches in stainless steel

Stainless steel looks great until you scratch it. Then it looks terrible. However, you can “sand out” the scratches with sandpaper (400 to 600 grit) and a sanding block, a sanding pad or with a sanding paste. Or buy a stainless steel repair kit and get everything you need.

The grinding technique only works on bare (uncoated) stainless steel sheets. Never try to remove scratches on simulated stainless steel or stainless steel panels with a fingerprint-resistant clear coat. Tip: If your device gets fingerprints easily, it’s probably plain stainless steel.

Required tools and materials

Have the necessary tools and materials for this DIY project ready before you begin – you’ll save time and frustration.

Sandpaper (400 to 600 grit)

sanding pad

sanding block

abrasives

Handyman family

Sand off the scratch

The key to removing scratches on stainless steel is to start with the finest sandpaper or pad and sand a zigzag jet of abrasive liquid across it. Then sand the scratched area (photo). If the scratch doesn’t come out after a few minutes of sanding, switch to the next coarser grit. When the scratch disappears, sand the rest of the panel until it blends in. You need to get a feel for the technique, so start on an inconspicuous spot on the device panel.

question

How do I get stainless steel scratches?

Community Response

What you use will depend on how deep the scratches are, but while stainless steel is quite hard, it’s still a metal and can be scratched by other metals. Pan scrubbers are the first thing to try – unless it’s a gouge, in which case a case-hardened file is probably fine. We see scratches because they interfere with visible light – so although we can remove one scratch, it usually means we have many more smaller ones left. So the trick is to randomly scratch the surface until the “bad” scratch is gone. We usually do this with a random, circular (similar) motion or a tool that does this for us. Repeat with finer connections until finished.

Whether your vehicle has lots of metal components or just the rims, maintenance is key to maintaining that shiny, clean and eye-catching finish. It also helps protect the metal from the elements and normal road damage such as scratches and contamination that can lead to oxidation and rust.

Our professional grade aluminum polish is used in all body shops and among avid car enthusiasts for a reason – it works! This makes it very easy to bring your rims and aluminum components to a high gloss.

Using a soft, clean microfiber cloth, apply a small amount of polish to the metal surface. Then start rubbing it back and forth, not in a circular motion. In doing so, you will notice that the black dirt and residue on your cloth will come off. Keep rubbing until no more residue comes off the metal. Fold the cloth before the polish dries and remove the polish while it is still wet.

With our high-quality aluminum polish in your car cleaning kit, you can effortlessly polish your wheels and other polishable metal components to keep your vehicle looking like new for longer.

416R Gun Barrel Steel is a pre-hardened, low-sulphur, chrome-plated stainless steel primarily used for precision rifle barrels. The 416R Gun Barrel grade has different hardness ranges that can be tailored to your needs. Barrel makers and rifle makers use this grade for its consistency and high quality, as Next Generation Metals produces these bars that are heat treated and stress relieved.

This material has good machinability for gun drilling and reaming, and excellent polishability for smooth lapping, which is required for drilling accuracy. Its homogeneous microstructure responds to a heat treatment that gives this material a uniform hardness along the length of the bar. This is required for accurate button pressing with accurate groove dimensions. Its corrosion resistance prevents rust and minimizes fouling. Next Generation Metals provides their 416R with a durable finish that will not corrode with proper care. This material is 100% ultrasonically tested and precision straightened per ASTM E2375.

Specifications:

ASTM A370

ASTM A484

ASTM A582 (not S)

ASTM E381

AMS2315

Hardness: The default hardness is 190-210 BHN but can be adjusted to one of the following values: HRC 24-28; HRC 28-32; HRC 32-36

Tensile Strength: 90-110 KSI

Applications:

Clean, Lubricate, Protect

Below I will explain how WD-40 works in each of these roles.

cleanser

Since WD-40 is primarily a solvent, it makes sense that it would be ideal for cleaning guns. However, it is NOT advisable to clean your guns with WD40.

Solvents like WD40 will not remove dirt or slime.

Solvents dissolve goo, which then moves the dissolved goo to another area of ​​your gun that you can’t see.

Using an aerosol solvent simply “shoots” all the dirt into tiny crevices in your firearm, making them even more difficult to clean and can lead to “gum formation”.

lubricant

WD-40 is a solvent and NOT a lubricant. Because it evaporates so quickly, WD-40 doesn’t work well as a gun lubricant. Between spraying on the chamber or slide and loading your cartridges and starting to shoot, it would almost certainly evaporate leaving your gun bone dry.

MYTH: WD-40 is a lubricant.

FACT: “WD” stands for “Water Displacement” and is primarily a solvent.

Protection

As mentioned above, WD-40 evaporates so quickly that it won’t protect your gun for very long. Before storing your firearms in a gun safe for any length of time, consider using a real oil (oil does not evaporate and will protect your firearm from rusting).

WD-40 consists primarily of mineral spirits. Once these mineral spirits vaporize, your gun will be left with exposed metal and your gun will begin to rust.

WD40 & Exceptions

There are only two situations where WD-40 can/should be used:

Written by T. Logan Metesh, published Apr 27, 2022 3:29pm

Gun cleaning solvents remove powder residue, carbon deposits, copper and lead deposits and more to keep your firearms running smoothly. Whether you’re looking to pass your great-grandfather’s lever-action rifle to your kids, or a brand new threaded-barrel pistol for some understated plink fun, the goal is to keep both running smoothly for decades to come.

To do this, you must have a good gun maintenance system in place, which usually involves putting together a gun cleaning kit of your choice, so you can keep your guns clean in any situation. The first step in cleaning a gun is to get rid of any debris from firing. The best way to get rid of all that dirt and residue from shooting is to use the best possible gun solvents.

Things to Consider Before Buying Gun Cleaners

The variety of gun solvents available for purchase varies widely, as does the number of different guns you can purchase. Still, there are definitely some names you’ve no doubt heard of over the years, including Hoppe’s, Break Free, Lucas, Tetra, and Ballistol. All of these are fantastic products so you can’t go wrong with any of them. But how do you differentiate good gun cleaners from the best gun cleaners for you?

Here are a few things to keep in mind about your guns, how you use them, and your shooting habits when deciding on a gun solvent:

Frequency of Use: Do you use your guns infrequently and only need cleaning a couple of times a year, or do you shoot a lot and need to clean your guns fairly regularly?

Are your guns used infrequently and only need cleaning a couple of times a year, or do you shoot a lot and need to clean your guns fairly regularly? Shooting Environment: Are you shooting indoors or outdoors where the weather and natural elements can affect the condition of your gun after a day of shooting?

Are you shooting indoors or outdoors where the weather and natural elements can affect the condition of your gun after a day of shooting? Type of Ammo: Do ​​you shoot corrosive ammo? Maybe use black powder and lead bullets? Or are you using jacketed bullets? The type of ammo and powder you fire can have a big impact on how dirty your gun gets. Some shoot cleaner than others, while others can be much more stubborn if left sitting.

You should also read our advice on gun maintenance, how to clean a gun, and common gun cleaning mistakes so you can avoid them. Take a look at our roundup of the best gun cleaning kits and top gun oils for your maintenance routine. And always remember the 10 rules for safe gun handling.

Why it made the cut

Hoppe’s has been around since 1903, so they really must be doing something right. Otherwise the company would not have existed for so long.

main features

Available in multiple size containers

For use with pistols, rifles and shotguns

Also a great rust preventative

advantages

To be found everywhere

Available in a variety of different delivery media

Removes all types of deposits and deposits

Disadvantages

Iconic scent may not be ideal in hunting situations

The gun care product family no. 9 from Hoppe is legendary. The company’s gun barrel cleaner easily removes powder, lead, and carbon deposits, and loosens any abrasive materials that could damage your gun. This family of products is easy to use, works fast, is extremely efficient and safe. In addition to breaking down dirt quickly, it also prevents rust.

You can buy it in bottles, aerosol cans, and jars to best suit your needs. Because it’s part of the larger No. 9 line, it works incredibly well with their gun oil and grease products. Oh, and who could forget the legendary Hoppe smell? You won’t find it anywhere else.

Why it made the cut

Sage & Braker CLP is non-toxic, non-hazardous and biodegradable. Oh, and it works fine.

main features

Biobased

harmless

Fine mist spray bottle

advantages

Proudly made in the USA

Three in one: clean, lubricate, protect

A little goes a long way

Disadvantages

Expensive

Sage & Braker boldly claims that their CLP is the most advanced and best performing Clean, Lube, and Protect product ever to hit the market. And it does this while remaining non-toxic. The formula is bio-based and non-hazardous. So you can clean your guns without having to open a window.

Sage & Braker’s CLP penetrates down to a microscopic level to remove absolutely all copper, lead and carbon contamination on your gun. Then its lubricating properties ensure improved heat dissipation, which leads to cooler operating temperatures of the weapon when firing. Finally, Sage & Braker’s CLP uses an anti-static formula that greatly reduces static electricity, preventing carbon and other contaminants from sticking the next time you shoot. This in turn means that your gun will be easier to clean after the first use of this CLP.

Best for Rifles: M-Pro7 Gun Cleaner

Best for guns check price

Why it made the cut

The M-Pro7 Gun Cleaner improves the performance of your rifle by removing existing contamination and conditioning the metal to prevent future deposits.

main features

Safe on all metals including titanium, aluminum and stainless steel

Biodegradable and non-toxic formula

Non-flammable

advantages

Completely odorless for those who don’t like gun cleaning smells

Can be used in a tank as an immersion cleaning solvent

Removes even stubborn embedded carbon

Disadvantages

Not suitable for oil-based OEM finishes

It’s just a cleaner; it doesn’t smear

The M-Pro7 Gun Cleaner makes cleaning your rifle even easier as it actually breaks down carbon deposits, allowing the deposits to float freely and clean faster. The M-Pro7 formula is designed to rid your rifle’s gunmetal of all contaminants while depositing a thin, rust-inhibiting film behind it that is not oily or rubbery to the touch. When you have a big cleaning project to tackle, you can use M-Pro7 Gun Cleaner in one tank and use heat and agitation to make cleaning and removing even the most stubborn dirt quick and easy.

While this cleaner is fast and effective, it offers no protection. After cleaning, you need to apply a layer of oil or other protective substance. Also, be careful not to let it come into contact with oil-based paints as it can strip those too.

Best Spray: Ballistol

Why it made the cut

Ballistol has been a proven gun cleaning agent worldwide since 1904. It can clean and protect every part of your firearm, from the action to the stock.

main features

Aerosol or non-aerosol spray options available

Aerosol propellant is a non-CFC propane/butane blend

Also suitable for many other products – not only for weapons

advantages

Does not harden or thicken over time

Protects wooden gun stocks from moisture and vermin

Also available in wipes and large canisters if spray isn’t what you need

Disadvantages

If there are any, I haven’t found them

Ballistol was developed by the Germans for their military and has been used by marksmen, hunters and the military since 1904. Ballistol works wonders on black powder and caustic ammunition remnants, as well as any other type of ammunition and modern smokeless powder. As an added benefit of the Ballistol design, it can be used on any part of your gun, not just the metal. Ballistol’s formula makes it a perfect and safe treatment to preserve gun stock wood and gun sling leather. There is no need to switch between products for complete gun protection.

Sometimes you don’t need a bottle of solvent and it would be much more convenient to spray down your gun instead of having to wipe it down. That’s why Ballistol offers several spray options in addition to regular bottles, cloths and jugs.

Best Cleanser and Lubricant: Break Free CLP

Best Cleaner and Lubricant Check the price

Why it made the cut

Originally developed for the military, Break Free CLP has become the industry standard for military and civilian use due to its versatile use as a gun cleaner and lubricant.

main features

Was the first product of its kind to pass MIL-SPEC 63460

Works in temperatures from -65 F to +475 F

Multiple application methods available

advantages

Will not degrade or solidify over time

Works even after immersion in salt water

Three in one: cleaning, lubricating, preserving

Disadvantages

If there are any, I haven’t found them

Introduced in 1975, Break Free CLP is a standard product for the military. They use a proprietary penetrating formula that breaks down powder fouling, oil, dirt, grease and corrosion that can damage metal. In addition to cleaning, Break Free CLP helps reduce friction, delay wear and stop the build-up of debris that could damage your gun. Finally, CLP creates a long-lasting protective layer that protects all metals from rust and corrosion.

Break Free CLP is available in a variety of options. Choose the standard applicator bottle for on-site use or benchtop cleaning. The spray bottle is perfect for high-volume applications such as B. High-volume shooters who frequently clean their firearms. An aerosol can is perfect for a quick wipe down at home or at the shooting range. Pick up a few and keep them in your range bag, vehicle, and maintenance area.

frequently asked Questions

Q: Should I clean my gun after each use? Cleaning your gun after each use will certainly not harm it. But in most cases it is not necessary. Modern firearms and cartridges are built to standards where they do not foul and/or fail nearly as quickly as guns of a century or more ago. A light day at the range doesn’t usually require a complete dismantling and cleaning. But if that makes you feel better, yes, you can clean your gun after each use. Q: Should you oil the inside of a gun barrel? Yes, you should definitely oil your gun barrel on the inside. All of the burning powder and residues of gunpowder, copper, and lead that may be in your projectiles will accumulate there. After cleaning the barrel, you should lightly coat the inside of the barrel with oil to prolong barrel life. Q: What gun cleaner does the military use? The military uses a variety of gun cleaning solvents. These include Break Free CLP, G96, Radcolube to name a few. You really can’t go wrong with any of these options. They are all premium gun cleaning solvents. The military also use a variety of different gun oils in conjunction with their cleaning solvents. Q: What happens if you never clean your gun? The biggest gun cleaning mistake you can make is just not cleaning your gun. If you never clean your weapon, it will eventually stop working as intended. These failures can include a number of different things, including firing pins that won’t retract, semi-automatic pistol slides that won’t run, turret cylinders that won’t rotate, trigger assembly parts that get stuck, rifle bolts that come loose. t close and go into the battery, and many other ways.

How I made my selection

In my years as a gun historian I have used a variety of products to ensure the guns in a collection remain protected. The primary concern of those in charge of the preservation of museum objects is to ensure their proper condition and longevity. As a result, I’ve also had many conversations with colleagues at similar institutions, not just in the US but around the world, about what we think works best.

There are many different gun solvents on the market and they are not all the same. It’s not like one product is really better than another. In most cases, some of them are very similar. However, you will find that some do more than others. In some cases, less really is more. As such, it may make the most sense for you to have more than one gun solvent on hand.

I can name a dozen of them off the top of my head as I sit here writing this. And there are currently no fewer than four different ones in my cleaning kit. Those on this list were selected using a variety of criteria, including:

Cost: In general, solvents for guns are not expensive. Still, money doesn’t grow on trees and you don’t want to waste your money on products that over-promise and under-deliver. You won’t find them here.

In general, gun solvents are not expensive. Still, money doesn’t grow on trees and you don’t want to waste your money on products that over-promise and under-deliver. You won’t find them here. Distribution: If you see a specific product on every weapon bank, chances are it’s no coincidence. There are some gun solvents that are everywhere and have been for decades, and with good reason.

If you see a specific product on every gun bench, chances are it’s no coincidence. There are some gun solvents that are everywhere and have been for decades, and with good reason. Application: The gun solvents on this list are available in a variety of application methods. This is important as not everyone wants or needs a giant bottle of oil when a precision applicator or spray can is really needed.

The gun solvents on this list are available in a variety of application methods. This is important as not everyone wants or needs a giant bottle of oil when a precision applicator or spray can is really needed. Performance: If a gun solvent doesn’t work well, it’s not worth using. That’s pretty easy, isn’t it? You have to rely on it to clean, lubricate and protect your guns.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a good gun solvent is very important, but thankfully it’s not expensive or difficult. There are so many excellent options on the market that it’s difficult to pick a bad gun solvent. However, that doesn’t mean that every gun solvent is always right for every situation. They all have their pros and cons, so be aware of what they are before you buy any. And you can never have too many options, which is why I have a handful of them in my kit right now.

Gunmetal can tarnish and look worn after a very short time. The material requires regular maintenance and polishing to ensure the firearm operates safely and effectively. Regular and proper polishing also contributes to maintaining the value of your weapon. All of the materials needed to polish gun metal are available from online or local retailers that sell guns and gun products.

Step 1

Unload your gun and remove any magazines that can store bullets. Turn on the safety on your firearm.

step 2

Remove any tarnish and burrs with 220 grit sandpaper. To sand flat gun parts and square barrels, wrap the sandpaper around a file or other firm and square piece of wood or rubber. To sand round parts of the firearm, hold a strip of sandpaper by the ends and remove burrs and tarnish by moving the sandpaper back and forth across the surface in a manner similar to shiny shoes. Repeat the process, proceeding with finer grit sandpaper until you achieve the shine and shine you desire.

step 3

Use a small air compressor to get rid of all the dust and dirt left over from the sanding process. Move the air hose nozzle around the firearm, focusing on small parts and areas with screws and other areas that you cannot clean and polish with a cloth.

step 4

Wipe the firearm with a soft cleaning cloth.

step 5

Apply and remove gunmetal polish, following the manufacturer’s recommendations. You may need to let the polish sit on the metal for a period of time.

step 6

I stumbled across the Patriot Gun Polishing Instagram page and was blown away. The quality of the mirror polish was amazing and soon I was at Gun For Hire in Woodland Park, NJ having my revolver shipped to Patriot Gun Polishing in Florida.

Robert, the owner of PGP, sent me a written description of all the superficial scratches on my revolver after he looked at it so we both knew what he needed to work on. The wait for work was a few weeks and it was killing me! Every day he posts pictures of firearms he is working on and they looked great, I was going insane waiting for my firearm. I received my revolver back in the hard black gun case that I had mailed. When I opened it, I felt like the characters in Pulp Fiction opening Marsellus Wallace’s trunk, it literally glowed. Most parts of it were polished to a mirror finish, there was no indication of the scratches that were on the revolver. The end of the barrel and the top strap were sandblasted, the trigger and hammer remained original. The mirror polish along with the trigger and action I took when I bought the 686 made this BBQ gun a BOMB!

Simichrome Polish is a soft polishing paste for chrome, silver, gold, aluminium, brass or virtually any other metal. Cleans to a brilliant shine and leaves a protective film to retard oxidation. Apply a small amount of Simichrome Polish with a clean polishing cloth. Polish to a high gloss with a soft cloth. Also ideal for removing tarnish.

Excellent for: jewelry, coins, silverware, furniture fittings, car trim, model cars and trains, and steel tools and molds. Simicrome is also great for testing the authenticity of Bakelite. A small amount of Simichrome polish is rubbed onto the surface of the Bakelite with a cotton swab. If the polish turns yellow the piece is Bakelite, if it remains pink in color the piece is not Bakelite.

Supplied in 50 gram (1.76 oz) tubes.