How to clean up a frame
 

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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

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

Just my view...

Would you mine telling us John?