Cleaning Stainless Steel

[arcticruger]

Howdy all. I have an unfired 40 year old stainless pistol. Some of the lettering/numbering in the rollmarks is starting to turn black. Is this an oxidation of some sort? What would be the proper way to remove it.

[RoninPA]

Go with some acetone and a small, fine bristle brass brush and go over the area you want to clean. Short, light strokes, trying to keep in the area of the discoloration, then wipe and repeat as necessary. The acetone won't hurt or discolor the stainless steel and the light touch and fine bristles shouldn't affect the overall look of the stainless. You could try a nylon bristle brush also which definitely won't leave any marks on the surfaces.

[arcticruger]

Appreciate the info. Thanks!