Refinishing a s&w 642

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RKM

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Getting shot with an ugly gun is just as bad as getting shot with a purty one....Leave it be. The inner gun guy wants it to look good, let the outer gun guy be your Yoda. "Leave it ugly I will"
 

Go_Ordnance

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I remember another member here having issues with sweat causing issues with the finish on his S&W j-frame. I seem to recall that he contacted S&W and there was some concern that refinishing the alloy frame might damage or remove the serial numbers.
They’re covered by the yoke/crane. Can’t see a lot of refinishing requirements in that area.
 

SPDguns

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Mine looks like it was slid down the driveway a few times. I don't have a cool story. Seriously, there's not much you can do if it's your EDC. Buy a no dash 2" 66 to show off to your friends. Show the beater 642 to your enemies.
 

HiredHand

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They’re covered by the yoke/crane. Can’t see a lot of refinishing requirements in that area.

The serial # is on the bottom of the grip area of the frame. I believe you’re thinking of the model number. In any case, blasting the finish off the frame could potentially damage the serial number if care isn’t taken to protect that area.
 

Go_Ordnance

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The serial # is on the bottom of the grip area of the frame. I believe you’re thinking of the model number. In any case, blasting the finish off the frame could potentially damage the serial number if care isn’t taken to protect that area.

Yes, the model number is on the frame under the yoke. The serial number is right above it. The serial number is also at the bottom of the grip frame. If you inadvertently ruin the one on the grip, there’s still the one on the yoke.
 

kd5rjz

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I have a 642 I got in pretty rough shape for a great price. I soaked it in MEK for a couple of weeks, scrubbed the finish off, and buffed the frame to a decent shine. Acetone will take the leftover finish off as well, but takes longer to dissolve it.
 

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