The Smith & Wesson model 27 Project Part 2

If you missed part one, see it here

The first part to get polished is the ejector rod, I taped up the knurled portion and the threads and chucked it into my drill, then polished it to 1200 grit

Then I started on the frame, removing the engraving. I started with 150 grit

Next I remove the engraving from the bottom side of the top strap

note the cartridge marks on the breech face

The muzzle had some wear and light pitting, this is a 1200 grit finish, I stay away from the roll marks, the rest of the finish on the barrel is in good shape, I'll give it a light buffing and blue over the old bluing.

Then I started on the side plate

Notice how I steer clear of the roll marks, it is easy to destroy these when they are shallow. I work around them until I get to 400 grit or above. I also find creative ways to sand the metal in very small sections

Once I had the frame parts close, I started on the cylinder. I built this jig, using a small bolt, some bushings that fit the inside of the S&W cylinder perfectly and some copper washers. It allows me to mount the cylinder in my drill press for expedient sanding

There is some deep pitting in places

I start with 100 grit, I alternated sanding fore and aft, then back into the drill press

Then 150 grit

220 grit

280 grit

320 grit

400 grit

600 grit

800 grit

1200 grit

2000 grit

and a final polish with fine crocus cloth

Next stop the bluing tank