Rusted 1911

NYyotekiller

NYyotekiller

New member
I just got my hands on an old Colt 1911 that was manufactured in 1918. The guy I got it from had it stored wrapped in a towel in a plastic bag. I'm not sure how the rust formed on the gun but it was only in two spots and kind of looks like fingerprints maybe. I was wondering the best way to get rid of the rust without having to have the gun re-blued if possible?

 
There is no real way to remove that rust without re bluing or otherwise coating the metal. Sorry!

CeraKote is good route to go.
 
That's a shame to happen to that piece of history.

I think there is going to be bluing loss and pitting.

Have fun with it.
 
That looks pretty bad; probably pitted, but here's best way to remove surface rust w/least damage to remaining bluing.

Soak rust in penetrating oil (overnight won't hurt). Using a round bladed screwdriver, such as most phillips screwdrivers, rub the blade back and forth across rusted surface while pressing against the rusty surface. Add more oil as necessary. The round blade will not scratch the surface but will remove the oil loosened rust.

Regards,
hm
 
I had a old colt army special that was of no collector value. It was rusted about as bad and I didn't want to reblue. I tried a few different oils and found inhibitor v80 produced by Plano to work well. I coated it every day and gently rubbed the rusted area with 0000 steel wool. The gun had a nice patina and I didn't want to have white steel showing where I removed the rusted areas. I took 2 months but I left enough rust so it blended with the rest of the gun, and eventually it turned out good. The rust has stopped. I take the six gun out every month or so a put a little more v80 on it.
 
Oil and Kroil mix with some 0000 steel wool would be my starting point. Go from there to see how bad it is and how it is turning out.
 
Since it can't stay like that, I would start with the mildest effort possible. Probably soak with Kroil and hope most of the rust would float away. I would not worry about the finish until I saw how bad the final product looked like after rust removal. What a shame to happen to a fine old gun.
 
Rust removal is your first priority...As suggested, start with the most gentle that will least likely harm the rest of the finish that exists....A 1918 in used, but near pristine condition, is worth approximately $1,000 (sold mine for that), any damage or refinishing only reduces cash value or collectable value...1918s were one of the most produced in that decade...Value is less than other years..



It was all original, with all matching numbers and proper parts..

If you are going to do any refinishing to it, have it done completely and by a professional...Just be aware of the diminished value that you will incur...
 
How would soaking it in molasses work? I know thats a old trick that removes rust without harming the base metal, diluted 10:1 with water. Never tried it on a gun.
 
I bought an old match 1911 from a guy and the frame was a Remington 1918. I sold that frame for $800. Post some better pictures so we can get a better idea of the piece.
 
I'd try some fine steel wool and some automatic tranny fluid. I did that on an old shotgun. It works pretty well. I'd say the bluing is shot though.
 


Write your reply...
Back
Top