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I've got a Springfield 1911 that I've had since the mid 90s. I've never really liked the shiny slide and sides of the frame. I've been thinking about stripping it down and hitting it with an air eraser and a very mild abrasive. I'm worried about getting it consistent. Anyone ever tried anything like that? If it was a flop, I could always Cerakote it.
I currently have a 1911 that is in need of a refinish on the frame. Mine is not stainless but blued. My plan is to have it blasted with aluminum oxide and then refinish with DuraCoat. I have had great luck with DuraCoat in the past on AR parts and accessories and want to try it on the 1911. The frame will be sprayed with Flat Dark Earth while the slide will remain a glossy blued finished. At least that's the plan.
I have bead blasted knife blades. Start with the nozzle further back than you'd think and keep moving. If it isn't etching enough move closer but KEEP MOVING! There are all kinds of bead media but it isn't always available in small qty.
Do not use blasting grit as it is made to cut deep and it will leave jagged finish marks. If the slide is hardened very much you might have to look into something like a matte finish with wet/dry carbide sandpaper. That requires a very steady hand but can look outstanding IMO.
CDH said it. If you use blasting grit you while remove metal. Use fine grit GLASS beads. You can always move up in glass bead size if you desire. Be sure to mask off the areas you don't want blasted.
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