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I've always wondered how "in the white" parts were restored/refinished. I had a derelict C96 (and I do mean derelict) 100% restored, and the bolt, hammer and lock mechanism are pristine. I am assuming some form of bead blasting was used, as any other form of abrasive action would result in not only a white finish, but a polished/shiny one. Am I correct?
Sanding doesn't polish unless you use a very fine paper. You can usually see the scratch marks however. Bubba will use whatever means he has. Arsenals didn't generally restore to in the white conditions with the notable exception of the Soviets that I'm aware of.
This is a very interesting topic and one that evades me as to an answer also.
It is very difficult (on a Gew98 receiver for example) to replicate the machining marks to get the material in the white whilst still maintaining the depth of receiver stamps.
Tones.
I think you'd need a soak instead. Lemon juice or perhaps muriatic acid...also muriatic can be applied with q-tips and do the job. Do it outside though...