Refinishing

[Powder Horn]

I have 2 WW2 issued 1911 that have some rust, but no pitting. I want to re-parkerize them both. They are both in a shade of dark gray, not the green or light gray. Who can do this and how to specify for this color?

[j.primo]

I asked that question b4. Sorry guy, no one does park finishes in the bay. Everything is in SoCal. The only leads I've come up with is CCR. They're not local so you gotta' ship. Let me know how it turns out. Good luck.

[shtr45acp]

Since you are in norcal, consider calling the college up in Susanville to see if they are running any batches. Allens Enterprises (Janesville) might have a lead (if still in business). Brownells sold a kit to re-parkerize, but havent read any reviews. Color control prob, maybe. Earlier suggestion to send out to a pro seems best solution. Any collector value?

[gunboat]

I would be careful about refinishing any GI 1911 unless it's value is really low.
my ha-penny

[KracknCorn]

Yah, if they are collector 1911s, any refinish of any kind will destroy the value. Scrub off as much rust with oil and a rag

[uxo2]

Have it appraised brfore you do anything.

[kendog4570]

I asked that question b4. Sorry guy, no one does park finishes in the bay. Everything is in SoCal. The only leads I've come up with is CCR. They're not local so you gotta' ship. Let me know how it turns out. Good luck.

I do.
I am in Aptos. PM me for specific details and quotes. 20+ years experience.

Zinc Phosphate
KG Gun Kote
Duracoat

[JRJCP]

http://www.delvallegunsmithing.com/

http://www.jrjcustompistols.com/

http://www.techplate.com/

I do manganese parkerizing.

[GetBulletsandBrass]

I'm still a month or so out to be properly set up for parkerizing. We do handle custom painted stocks, guns, and bluing.

How much were you quoted for shipping the gun down south?

[NeoWeird]

Don't do it. Any type or refinish will destroy it's value. It's like painting over the Mona Lisa - it may LOOK better but it would be worth near nothing compared to it's former self.

Take some copper wool, WD-40, and some elbow grease - but not too much. Don't remove any patina, just potentially damaging rust. After that just keep it well oiled and out of harsh enviornments like storing it outside, and wipping it off if you smear sweat and grease on it while shooting. You might also want to look into one or more of the several rust preventing gun storage options. Placing it in one of those silica free stoarge bags before putting it away for extended periods of time could really help.

Just think it over; you'll drop $200 to take a $1k+ gun to $600 status. Or if you need that new looking 1911, just drop $200 extra bucks to get a cheap shooter like an RIA and you'll have both guns to keep you warm at night.