Chrome 1911 parts

[TAKtical]

I have a Springfield Armory full rail TRP Operator and Im looking to have this pistol chromed and polished. Its my understanding that only steel parts can be chromed. Three questions,
1.) Am I correct that only steel parts can be chromed?

2.) How do I find out which parts are steel and which arent?

3.) Will chroming parts like barrel, beavertail safety, etc. cause parts to not fit back into place or in any way affect the performance or reliability of the pistol?

Thank you for your time and input.

 

[BBBBill]

1. Some shops will hard chome aluminum, but it requires the extra step of nickle plating first. Carbon and stainless steel can be hard chromed.
2. Carbon steel is magnetic. Aluminum and some stainless steel is not. Chances are that the only aluminum part on your gun is the finger pad of the trigger.
3. Only in very rare cases will it affect fit, etc. Most guns will see zero ill effect and will often function more smoothly after chroming. If the gun is a bullseye pistol with a super tight fit, I would consult with a professional 1911 smith first.

Hard chrome is often done with the idea that it will prevent rust. Not so. With reasonable care, it will be more rust resistant, but I've seen severely rusted hard chome guns that had been ignored because of that false assumption. Hard chrome is not a solid coating it does have "pores" that will allow moisture through to the base metal. That said, it is still my favorite finish for a hard use gun.
You mentioned polished. Are you looking for a bright shiney finish? If so, why? That makes for glare issues when you are shooting in bright light.