Filing/Sanding my stainless revolver

[BSG]

Hey Everyone,

I bought a SP101 last night and have been thinking about it all day at work today. I've noticed that there are a few roughly-machined edges (common on Rugers I hear). The hammer spur and on the frame where it meets the cradle are examples. It's a stainless steel gun and I'd like to gently smooth file down and smooth out these areas. So here are my questions:

1) What tool (file, sandpaper, etc) is best suited for this type of work?
2) Are there any places where this smoothing is a no-no? ( I'm not going to file the action or internals or anything.)
3) General Tips?

I bought some flitz polish that i intend to use to polish everything up when i am finished. Thanks for the help.

[Guyver]

I would probably use some sand paper... 800grit maybe then touch it up with 1000, then pollish. Files can be uneven if you don't have a steady hand, it's easier with the sandpaper.

[srothman]

Use basic tools, NO Dremmel. Go slowly, it is very easy to remove metal, and difficult to put it back. Make sure where you are removing material is areas where it is purely cosmetic, and not mechanical, especially if you don't know what you are doing.

The hardest part is going to be matching the original factory finish, especially on an older used gun. Be prepared to polish the whole gun, the same way, so it will match, if that even matters to you?

Just be careful and go slow. Take your time, and everything should be ok. Don't rush, use lots of pressure, or real abrasive sand paper.

[45caldan]

I don't mean to sound like a jerk but if you have to ask how to do it, I suggest you leave it alone. You MAY end up kicking yourself for trying to fix a MINOR blemish and end up with a major eyesore. Ask me how I know...:whistling:

[carbofan21]

then again, it's a ruger so it is made to be more of a "working" gun, not a show piece

that said, i would also go very slow

maybe some 800 or 1000 grit to take the sharp/rough edges off, and then some wet/dry 1500 grit before you polish will supposedly makes a nice "brushed" look

if i were you, i would do a search on the s&w forum. there's quite a few people over there that could point you in the right direction

[GlockFish]

You may as well really do it right and sand that "Billboard" off the barrel while you're at it.