Griffin& & Howe-modified NRA Sporter

[Rick the Librarian]

Thanks for the suggestions. but as I said in my earlier post, I have a copper brush that does a very good job of removing rust without damaging the original finish. I use CLP, kerosene or mineral spirits with the brush. When it comes to cleaning/restoring old (and valuable) firearms, I tend to be extremely conservative. I would definitely not trust myself with a wire wheel. On stocks, I use the most fine-grade steel wool I can and very "judiciously".

[Sons of Alvin Linden]

I will leave it at this. I have refurbed over a hundred 1903 Springfield Custom Sporter's over the years. I did not go to Trinidad JC. I have some that I picked up for $150 and I have several G&H's and an Alvin Linden custom restocked N.R.A. SPORTER [built for a Muncie Indiana Lawyer], that is my pride and joy. I am not particularly talented or smart when it comes to gunsmithing task. I used Flitz on them all when needed and I can't say the bluing in worse on a single one because of it. I can say many are markedly better because of it! Take it for what its' worth. If you think it is too abrasive don't use it. However looking at Rick's results after the wire brushing, I know Flitz when used properly can still do wonders for his metal. Jerry

[Johnny Peppers]

I don't really refurbish collectible firearms, but have cleaned up more than a few that had rusted due to neglect. I think everyone develops their favorite way of doing this, and while some methods work great for me, I would never recommend them to someone that has never done it before. If explaining that even though advertised otherwise, Flitz is indeed abrasive, I apologize for making this information known.

An oil refinery in a nearby town uses very slightly tapered bronze wedges for breaking flanges on lines carrying flammable liquids. With the end squared up properly the bronze wedges also make a great scraper for rust on neglected gun barrels as it removes the rust but doesn't touch the metal or blue. I would never recommend this for someone that had never done it, but it works great.

[Rick the Librarian]

Jerry, I do appreciate the suggestions and I'm sure, for you, they work well. I tend to be "all thumbs" mechanically and know my limits. I have received MANY tips over the years that have help greatly. I'm just satisfied with the results my efforts produced. I hope you know there was no attempt to be critical of your idea.

Thanks!

RtL

[Sons of Alvin Linden]

Rick: None taken. If you're happy,so am I. Thanks for all the kindnesses you've shown me! Jerry