Freedom Arms Model 97 finish.

[makilly]

I have a new FA 97, and it seems that the finish is easily scratched, my question is if there is a method of polishing out small rubs and scratches. Does the field grade finish show the same as the premier finish? Thanks,  makilly

[stevejr454]

makilly, I have found that dark green scotch brite cloth works very well with matching the premier grade finish. Yes I think the field grade finish is a little more durable, but it is harder to match the finish, to get scratches out. Hope the info helps stevejr454

[makilly]

Thanks stevejr54 for your help. I had called the factory on something else and asked what they used. Their reply was the maroon scotch-brite which is much coarser. Since the dark green worked well for you that is what I am going to use. Best Regards, makilly

[Ken ONeill]

I use the Scotchbrite red / maroon and find it to be a perfect match. Of course, it should be. That's what FA uses.

[paul105]

Ken,

Will that work for the 83 Premier also?

Thanks,

Paul

[Ken ONeill]

Yes, it will, Paul. The Premier Grade finish is the same on both. Take your time, go easy, and be sure that the direction of your strokes is the same as the original polishing. Done properly, the touch up will blend flawlessly with the original polishing. The pads can be purchased at auto or auto body supply stores.
I use Lead-Away cloth (carefully) on Field Grade finishes when I have to, but the results are not very satisfactory in many cases, and the part may need to be re-blasted with an appropriate media. The Scotch-brite eliminates that issue on the Premier Grade.

[paul105]

Thanks Ken.

[henryb]

I've used the maroon pad on my premier grade to smooth out scratches.  Just follow the grain that is already there from the factory, take easy even light strokes and go slow.  You wont be able to tell that it has been "re polished" after you are done.

[makilly]

Ken, Does the scotch-brite work on the cylinder also? thanks Makilly

[Ken ONeill]

Yes. See your PM.

[4MUL8R]

I think this is one of the best reasons to buy Premier over Field Grade.  Really.  I hated the scratches on my Field Grade that couldn't be touched due to the blasted finish.

[makilly]

Thanks to all for your help. Best regards