my first 1911

[Sketchy_Drifter]

I'm excited just picked up a used springfield GI model for what I think is a good price. $450. everything works but it needs a cleaning. looked online and someone took off the bead blast i think is what he called it on the top and bottom by accident. is there anything i should watch out for when trying to clean it? what should i use to get the best out of my finish. thanks

[jonzer77]

I would suggest shooting it and learning the 1911 and then once you have mastered how to avoid the idiot mark, then refinish it. Congrats on your 1911, prepare to be spoiled

[Sketchy_Drifter]

Thanks I look forward to being spoiled, and I will enjoy learning how to shoot it. I didn't want to refinish it, just clean it without destroying the finish. The top of the slide has like this discolored dirt that won't rub off and is really bugging me. any advice or do not i should know about?

[jonzer77]

I am not sure what that is exactly but you could try letting it soak in clp and then try scrubbing it. If that doesn't work then you could try taking a eraser to it and see if that takes it off......just never try that trick on a blued gun. You could post this over at the 1911forum.com and see what they have to say.

[jimmythebrain]

There are removable spray on paint finishes. If you just hate the current slide finish and will later pay for a better more permanent finish that may be the way to go. I think that these are sold through archery supply stores.

I fully agree with learning how to assemble and disassemble your 1911 in a way that avoid the "idiot scratch" before going the trouble of a costly refinish. A good quality rust preventer like Frog Lube, Eezox, BreakFree, Etc. will keep some rust from happening while you wait on a final refinish decision.

[chozenfew805]

Congrats on your first 1911! Shoot it and familarize yourself with the handgun before upgrading or refinishing anything. Save your money and buy some ammo. The 1911 is an awesome platform with plenty of information (Pros & Cons) out there. It's not for everyone and I personally love it, but you however, might not feel the same a couple days/weeks/months from now

Just my $.02

[Sketchy_Drifter]

I hope that is not rust. I've heard good things about frog lube think i'll try that.

[opie4386]

Lol its not sust, #0000 steel wool+mothers/flitz polish+4 hours= wonders!

I wouldent use the steel wool on the bead blasted area unless you want to experiment. I tell you this by experience. Good luck and have fun!

[skosh69]

OP, personally I think it looks good like it is, it has character!

[Press Check]

I can't make out the finish in the pictures; is it stainless?

[Sketchy_Drifter]

Lol its not sust, #0000 steel wool+mothers/flitz polish+4 hours= wonders!

I wouldent use the steel wool on the bead blasted area unless you want to experiment. I tell you this by experience. Good luck and have fun!

Thanks going to give this a try.

It's stainless. the dull look does not bother me but the dirt colored marks around the rear sight gets to me, think it's cause i'm looking in that area a lot.