Parkerized vs. Blue & Scuff Marks Too

[Scuba Diver]

http://members.aol.com/ttxp/38_38_45.jpg

My 1991A1 is the parkerized version and I am partial to blue, the purchase price was one I could not pass up and thus my purchase of it? My question, is this pistol able to be blued and come out looking well? Would Colt offer this service?

For the most part I simply stare at the pistol if not shooting it and thus the reason for the blue steel look. I have had a difficult time in becoming comfortable with using it for CCW purposes as I have always carried a J Frame S&W in a front pocket and nothing seems more natural, otherwise a parkerized .45 would do.

Also, while the pistol is not scratched, "scuff marks" appear quite easily on the surface, is there a way to remove these or must I simply accept that its an imperfect world and everything can't look perfect on the surface of my firearms?

[wetidlerjr]

http://members.aol.com/ttxp/38_38_45.jpg

My 1991A1 is the parkerized version and I am partial to blue, the purchase price was one I could not pass up and thus my purchase of it? My question, is this pistol able to be blued and come out looking well? Would Colt offer this service? ...


Yes and yes. :D

[rondawg]

I'd like to see some before and after photos of a gun that's had it done! A Rock Island, in particular. I really like the deep blue finish, I'd like to know more about it.

[Rich-D]

Parkerized finishes that are not well oiled scratch very easily. The finish was made to absorb oil into it, some folks even bake their guns saturated with gun oil. I utilize a hair dryer to heat the metal and apply a good quality gun oil. Do not use WD-40 as it is not a gun oil and will leave behind a gunked up mess.


Rich

[dakota1911]

I would call Colt and ask them. I could see roll marks being less sharp on the finished product. Also spec the bluing you want.

[Scuba Diver]

am thrilled to hear that the possibility of having the pistol blued by Colt is an available service. I would be happy with a deep blue gloss surface. While the roll marks remaining sharp would be welcomed, the blueing is more desired and would be a reasonable trade off? The only question remaining of them would be the costs involved, I will call them this week?

I have read prior that some surfaces should be heated and then oiled but I believe the suggestion was made in reference to a Damascus knife I own? I would also appreciate a before and after image of a handgun so modified in its surface appearance if someone has had this done themselves?

Thanks 1911 people,

[daveohno]

I prefer a nice blue like Royal Blue. The only problem with those gorgeous blue finishes is that they aren't as durable as some finishes and rough usage mars the beauty.

Scuba Diver, if you have the work done, please post pictures of the finished job so we can all envy your pistol!

[Tommy D]

My question, is this pistol able to be blued and come out looking well? Would Colt offer this service?


From the 2007 Colt Custom shop price list:
Standard Blue $200.
Royal Blue 275.
Matt Blue 165.

I'm sure they would be glade to service/refinish your pistol.