How to clean up a frame

[Harold Lee Pickens]

I dont have any pictures yet, but recently picked up a little VHE 20 that one might call a "beater" or a project gun. The frame is so dark, but not blued. Was wondering what I could use to clean it up without hurting it. Would I use a frrontier pad or some type of metal polish? I dont plan on doing alot with the gun, but may over time pretty it up a little. Hope to get pictures soon and I may bring it to the Southern to get opinions. Thanks

[wayne goerres]

I wouldn't use any form of metal polish. I would start with the frontier pad and some some sort of solvent. A lot of people use Hoppys No 9.

[John Campbell]

Some advocate Frontier Pads. I've tried them, and still prefer burgundy colour Scotch Brite available from most well-stocked hardwares. Wet this in Hoppe's No. 9, scrub, wipe off the crud, then allow to "age" for 24-48 hrs. The metal looks clean, yet still old with a soft patina that still includes some of the darker original colours.

[Dean Romig]

In my HO, definitely use the Frontier Pad with Hoppe's No. 9

Soak the frame in the Hoppe's allowing the crud to soak it in then use the Frontier Pad on it.

The Frontier Pad will not harm case color or bluing... while other abrasives might.

[Richard Flanders]

The green scotchbrite has very fine silica imbedded in it from what I can tell and will scratch ANYTHING you scrub with it. I sure will scratch the hell out of glass.

[Mark Landskov]

This may be a bit late, but....use Hoppe's No. 9, bronze wool and brass brushes/scrapers. You will not cause any harm to the metal or any remaining original finish/patina. My budget usually does not allow the purchase of top-end firearms, so I have 30+ years of experience cleaning well used antiques! It is truly amazing what you may find under a thick layer of 'patina' (a much abused term in the gun trade). Good Luck!

[jim garrett]

Where can I find Frontier pads. I have looked , but with no success. Jim Garrett

[Jerry Harlow]

Where can I find Frontier pads. I have looked , but with no success. Jim Garrett

http://www.big45metalcleaner.com/

Call for the quantity price. I'll bet you will order a dozen. I did and sold to buddies that had never seen these and before they screwed up their guns removing rusty spots.

[John Campbell]

if you like your Frontier Pad, you can keep it.

I've tried them. There's better stuff, cheaper.

Just my view...

[Daryl Corona]

if you like your Frontier Pad, you can keep it. Please.

I've tried them. There's better stuff, cheaper.

Would you mine telling us John?

[John Campbell]

Go to a good hardware. Find burgundy Scotch Brite pads in the paint section. About $3 each (one is a lifetime supply). Use a 2" square moistened with Hoppe's No. 9. Use the pad until it disintegrates. The effect gets better as it ages.

[Dean Romig]

'And never the twain shall meet.'

I wouldn't think of using a scotch-brite product on the finish of a fine gun. My career having been in the automotive service and repair field, I have seen too much damage done by the use of these abrasive products to engine parts to ever feel comfortable using them on gun finishes.... bronze and brass brushes and scrubbies - sure! Frontier pads - yes!.... Scotch-brite - not for me thanks.

[John Campbell]

With all due respect, like I said: If you like Frontier Pads, use 'em...

I don't have stock in any of these companies...

[Jerry Harlow]

Cheaper?

By the dozen they are about $2.50 last time I bought them. Good to just give to friends at that price.