Ruger GP100 Question??

[MCMXI]

I was at the Les Baer display and asked why they do not make many SS guns. The rep promptly replied SS does not last as long, it galls, and carbon steel wears better and is stronger. I was shocked.

Ed Brown makes 1911s using 416 stainless as do some other high-end manufacturers. 416 is a martensitic grade of stainless steel with excellent resistance to galling. Ed Brown states on their website FAQ ...


Q: What is the difference between stainless and blue steel? Does stainless steel gall?

A: Stainless steel is more rust resistant, and costs a little more. There is no other significant difference between the two with regard to any attribute of a 1911 - accuracy, longevity, durability, etc. are all virtually identical between the two. We have been building all stainless guns for many years from high quality 416 stainless steel and there are no problems with galling.

http://www.edbrown.com/FAQ.htm#aax

 

[JohnKSa]

The rep promptly replied SS does not last as long, it galls, and carbon steel wears better and is stronger. I was shocked.

A lot of custom gunmakers don't like working with stainless because it can be a pain to machine compared to carbon steel.

Some will tell you why up front. Some aren't so straightforward.