Colt combat commander 45

[Angel g]

So I'm buying a used combat commander that's satin stainless the pistol wasn't fired much but shows alot of carry can I polish and buff the scratches out if so what's the best way

[drkphibr]

So I'm buying a used combat commander that's satin stainless the pistol wasn't fired much but shows alot of carry can I polish and buff the scratches out if so what's the best way

You can't really polish or buff out scratches as doing so will put a higher "gloss" shine on the finish and you will have a mixed finish of satin and what would effectively look like bright stainless (almost nickel).

My process is to use 400 grit sandpaper (sanding with the "grain" of the current finish - basically parallel to the slide or frame) to take out all the scratches or finish irregularities. Once you have a uniform finish in 400 grit, that will serve as a good "base" to then put a finish sanding of 600 grit.

PM me and I'll send you pics of a stainless MK IV model 80 I refinished with this exact process so you can see the finish and judge for yourself.

Best thing to do is get some stainless steel scraps (ebay is a great source for cheap pieces) and then practice your sanding technique on them. It is and art and not something to expect to get perfect first time out. I've found the most effective method is completely striping the frame (including the plunger tube) so you can work with a totally flat surface. Slide is much easier.