Rust or Slide Abrasion?

[bountyhunter]

Looks like oxidation. Don't assume it's stainless, just because it's silver.

Try a scotchbrite pad on it.

[NoHeavyHitter]

That looks like wear from the slide rubbing the barrel during cycling - but can't say for sure as the photo it difficult to read.

Seeing the second photo - I'm sticking with my original thought of it being a slide / barrel chatter mark. In other words - normal.

To positively verify, you can rub the spot with a clean oily cloth. If discoloration to the cloth occurs - it's rust / oxidation. Clean cloth means abrasion / chatter mark.

[Fishslayer]

I use Ballistol emulsifying oil mixed with water for cleaning up after corrosive ammo. Probably not the same stuff but it didn't strike me as anything that would have extraordinary lube or protection properties.

Your barrel is "in the white" meaning zero protection. Surface rust can appear in hours if unprotected steel is left in the elements.

[hal515]

Thanks guys I appreciate the feedback.

[robert101]

2nd photo looks like barrel hood wear to me. Clean and polish it. Then light oil.

[j15w]

Keeping that area lightly oiled at all times will solve either rust or abrasion issues. Good luck.

[heidad01]

Keeping that area lightly oiled at all times will solve either rust or abrasion issues. Good luck.

^^^
This.

Hard to tell from pics. If in doubt, rub the area with a white patch. If you see redish brown, it is rust. If you see black/gray, it is sooth from shooting or the scratches from operation. Clean and polish that area before oiling.
RIA has no stainless in it. Even if stainless, the barrel hood and the outside of a gun need to be rubbed clean with a generously oily rag and wiped dry leaving some oil on any exposed and bare metal.

Easy:: Keep some Remoil wipes (individually wrapped) in your shooting bag. Wipe the outside of the gun when yu are finished shooting. That will hold it safe for a couple of weeks until you get to it for more details.