Metal Strippling Punches

[DanR]

Does anyone know of a place to buy metal strippling punches? Brownell's sells them for wood but not metal. With some Hi Powers having the serial number on the front of the grip, strippling seems the way to go for increasing the gripping capacity without messing up the number. Any help? :confused:

[Azrael256]

You might think about making your own punches. I found this (http://www.thefiringline.com/forums/archive/index.php/t-145611.html) post from TFL about making your own.

You may know this, but it's worth repeating: You're not trying to punch little holes, you're trying to flow the steel outward from the point.

[DanR]

That sounds like the "punches" used in leather tooling, only harder. I regret that I do not have the tools or the medium for heating a rod at this time. But, thanks for the input.

[brickeyee]

" I regret that I do not have the tools or the medium for heating a rod at this time."

A propane torch and some water hardening drill rod will do the job.
Heat to red hot, quench in water, polish a spot, reheat and watch the colors on the polished spot, quench again.
Color depends on type of steel and desired hardness. Tempilsticks work well also.

[DanR]

My trouble is that I am "color blind" and your "colors" will not be my "colors". I have had this problem before. It is frustrating!!!!! That is why I ws hoping that someone knew where I could obtain some. Looks like I just may have to attempt to make some, if all else fails.

[Hawkmoon]

Why not use skateboard tape? No risk whatsoever of damaging the numbers, and you can return the pistol to original condition with a quick application of adhesive remover.

[1911Tuner]

+1 on the skateboard tape. If stippling is a must, and you don't plan on doin' more than one or two pistols...roofing nails work well.

[DanR]

I am building a gun and wanted to keep the frame in the "white" with the slide in black. So, I do not think I could find a tape that would meet the color. If I was to put on a "stainless steel" finish then I could go with the Wilson part that is held in place by the grips. Thanks for the "roofing nail" tip. It should work, just will take a lot of time. But, because I would like the gun to be a "show piece" as well as a good carry gun, time is something I plan to take in the build up. I plan to post pictures when I finish it.

[stans]

If it is a carbon steel frame, keeping it "in the white" is going to require constant cleaning and oiling. If it is a carbon steel frame and you want a "white" finish, I recommend hard chrome plating.

[DanR]

I plan to use Brownell's clear mat baked finish. As this will be the first time I will be using this product, I will also post info on how it works. The "black" parts will be coated with the same product in mat black.