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Old May 8, 2012, 05:23 AM   #1
DavidB2
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Removing rusty finger prints from 1861 Springfield?

I made the mistake of handling my 1861 Springfield without wiping it down with oil. Now I have rusty finger prints on part of the barrel. What is the best way to restore the lustre and remove these finger prints? I have already tried steel wool and got some of it off; but more help is needed. Thanks for your suggestions.
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Old May 8, 2012, 05:35 AM   #2
Sport45
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Read this thread.

I trust anything the first two posters have to say about metal finishes.
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Old May 8, 2012, 10:08 AM   #3
maillemaker
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I believe the 1861 Springfield is a firearm with a "bright" barrel finish (not blued), correct?

If so, the fix is "easy". Use a mild abrasive with progressively finer grit until the rust is gone and you have matched the finish of the rest of the barrel.

Steve
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Old May 8, 2012, 12:39 PM   #4
straightcut
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Monel Wool

It's very easy to scratch the surrounding bluing with Scotchbrite or steel wool. I use this product: http://www.big45metalcleaner.com/ It's similar to steel wool, except made of an alloy, monel. The monel is harder than rust, but softer than bluing.

Best of luck!
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Old May 8, 2012, 12:54 PM   #5
DavidB2
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Never-Dull

What about using Never Dull on 1861 Springfield?
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Old May 8, 2012, 01:37 PM   #6
James K
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If the 1861 Springfield is an original or a good replica, it is not blued, so maillenmaker is correct.

600-1000 grit emery paper should remove the rust marks; next time, keep the barrel oiled.

Jim
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Old May 8, 2012, 04:46 PM   #7
bedbugbilly
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It's called "patina" . . .
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Old May 9, 2012, 11:09 AM   #8
Fingers McGee
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http://www.rb-treasures.com/product3.html

RB17 is the best rust remover I've ever found. It also removes built up lead and powder fouling as well as regrowing hair

OK, that last part might be stretching it a little; but RB17 is some good stuff. I've used it for going on 20 years or so.
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Old May 9, 2012, 06:10 PM   #9
bedbugbilly
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Whatever happened to just using steel wool, oil and elbow grease? Once a year I polish up my rifled musket with the above and it seems to work just fine - it's kept my rifled musket looking good for many years.
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Old May 9, 2012, 10:25 PM   #10
4V50 Gary
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I'm with bed bug billy. Steel wool (0000) will do it. Simple and old fashioned. Afterwards treat with Rig gun grease or, if it'll never be fired, with Rennaisance Wax.
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