Mirror finish rust blue?

[Hutch]

I've searched this forum and read everything that seemed applicable, but a question remains.

Given all the information here, I think slow rust blueing is the best choice for a semi-avid (is that a word?) home tinkerer. However, most references to it indicate that the results will be more of a matte finish, regardliess of the amount of polishing done beforehand. I really want a flashy, mirror-like finish on the side of the slide. Before investing all that time with the rust blue prep, not to mention the process itself, I'd like to get some idea of whether I'll be pleased with the effect.

Has anyone tried this process on a 1911 slide? I'm looking for a matte finish on the rounded top, and a mirror-black/blue finish on flat sides. Am I doomed to disappointment?

TIA

 

[gunut]

yes....sand blast the top, polish the sides and hot blue it........

 

[GeorgeR]

Rust blue etches the surface a little, so a mirror finish rust blue isn't possible. Your best bet would be to polish it yourself and send it out to have it hot blued. Prepared guns and parts are relatively cheap to have done IF all the prep work is done.

 

[Hutch]

GeorgeR, I visited your site and asked a question about the cost of this project.

 

[jpcampbell]

Hutch
As GeorgeR said the etching effect by the rust blue will not lend itself to a high gloss finish. I have seen GeorgeR's work it is obvious he is a pro and his work is well worth the money.