Chloe Zhang
Restoring the pistol grips on an old gun can be a fun project for collectors and enthusiasts. While some prefer to simply clean the grips with soap and water, others opt for a full refinishing to bring back the shine. For wooden grips, this can involve stripping off the old finish with a chemical stripper, applying a new stain, and then coating the grips with wood oil. Plastic grips can be cleaned with soap and water or a specialised cleaner, and then touched up with paint to cover any wear points.
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What You'll Learn
Clean plastic grips with soap, water, and a toothbrush
To clean plastic pistol grips with soap, water, and a toothbrush, start by mixing a small amount of soap with warm water. You can use a mild soap, such as dish soap. Soak a sponge in the soapy water and then wash the grips with the sponge. Alternatively, you can apply a few drops of soap directly to the grips.
Once the soap has been applied, use a toothbrush to scrub the grips gently. The toothbrush will help you reach any crevices or textured areas on the grips. Scrub until the grips are foamy, and then rinse them with clean water to remove any soap residue. Make sure to dry the grips thoroughly after rinsing.
If your grips are very dirty, you can try using a different cleaning product in addition to soap and water. For example, you could use a degreaser or a household spray cleaner to help remove grime. If your grips are greasy, you can try using baking soda mixed with water to create an abrasive cleaning paste. Spread the paste on the grips, let it sit for a couple of hours, and then wipe it off with a wet cloth.
Another option is to use denatured alcohol, which can be purchased at a home supply store. Soak a rag in the alcohol and wipe down the grips. Denatured alcohol evaporates quickly, but be careful not to use too much, as it is a strong cleaner. If it doesn't evaporate quickly, wipe off any excess with a paper towel.
Always make sure to dry the grips thoroughly after cleaning to prevent moisture buildup.
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Use a 50/50 mix of boiled linseed oil and turpentine
Restoring plastic pistol grips can be a tricky process, and one method that has proven effective is the use of a 50/50 mix of boiled linseed oil and turpentine. This solution not only restores the vibrancy of the plastic but also adds a protective layer. Here is a detailed guide on how to use this method:
First, it is important to prepare the surface of the plastic pistol grips by thoroughly cleaning them. Use a wax remover or 91% alcohol to ensure the surface is free of any dirt, grease, or residue. This step is crucial as it ensures the effectiveness of the restoration solution.
Next, create the 50/50 mixture of boiled linseed oil and turpentine. It is important to use boiled linseed oil, as unboiled linseed oil may not be as effective. Mix the two ingredients in a container, stirring or swirling them together until they are fully combined.
Before applying the mixture to the plastic pistol grips, it is recommended to wear rubber gloves to protect your hands. Dip a small portion of a towel or sponge into the mixture, and then gently wipe it onto the plastic surface. Ensure you cover all the desired areas, including any nooks and crannies.
After application, use a clean, dry towel to wipe away any excess solution from the pistol grips. It is important to be cautious during this step as both linseed oil and turpentine are highly flammable. Ensure that you do not leave any rags or towels soaked in the solution lying around.
Finally, allow the pistol grips to dry completely before handling them. The turpentine in the mixture helps improve the drying time, but it is still important to let the solution cure fully before use.
By following these steps and using a 50/50 mix of boiled linseed oil and turpentine, you can effectively restore the appearance of plastic pistol grips while also adding a layer of protection. This method is a great way to enhance the look of your pistol without resorting to paint or other more invasive restoration techniques.
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Remove old lacquer with furniture stripper
To restore plastic pistol grips, you'll first want to give them a good clean. Pistol owners recommend soap and water, with some suggesting the use of an old toothbrush to get into the grooves and patterns of the grip. If the grips are particularly dirty or greasy, some sources suggest using an aerosol oven cleaner, but be aware that this could discolour the grips.
Once the grips are clean and dry, you can use paint to cover any worn areas. You can also use paint to highlight any logos or text on the grips.
If you're looking to remove old lacquer from wooden pistol grips, you can use a furniture stripper. First, dust off the grips with an old toothbrush, making sure to clean out the checkering. Next, coat the grips with a liberal amount of furniture stripper and let it sit for around 15 minutes. Be sure to wear gloves or handle the grips carefully, as stripper chemicals can be dangerous. After the stripper has been left to work, use a soft rag or cotton cloth to wipe off the goo and old lacquer. You may need to repeat this process for the back sides of the grips and to use the toothbrush to get into all the edges.
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Re-paint grips and logos
To repaint pistol grips and logos, you must first disassemble the gun and ensure it is not loaded. Take photos to help you reassemble the gun later. Remove all stocks, grips, sights, scopes, and scope mounts. Clean and degrease all parts with a solvent that dries without residue, such as acetone or spray cans of Brakleen, which are good for getting into cracks and crevices. Wear gloves when handling degreased parts. Protect areas that will not be painted with painter's tape. Wear a high-quality respirator during painting operations.
Once your gun is disassembled and prepared, you can begin the painting process. Choose a spray-on coating in your desired colour and finish. Spray-on coatings are much easier to apply than traditional methods like hot bluing, which requires specialised equipment and chemicals. They also protect gun metal against rust and corrosion. Ensure you are in a well-ventilated area when using spray paint. Apply light, even coats to the grips and logos, holding the can about 6-8 inches away from the surface. Allow each coat to dry thoroughly before applying the next.
For the grips, you may also use plastic paint to restore them if the original paint or dye has worn away. You can also try dabbing a small amount of paint onto the grip logos, letting it set for a few seconds, then wiping it off to make the logos stand out.
Finally, allow the paint to cure completely before reassembling the gun. Refer to your photos to ensure proper reassembly. Test the gun for function and accuracy before use.
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Use rubber grips for increased control
If you're looking to restore plastic pistol grips, one option is to replace them with rubber grips. Rubber grips can provide increased control when handling a pistol. They are designed to improve performance, safety, and confidence by allowing you to maintain a secure hold on your weapon.
Rubber grips, such as the Hogue rubber grips, can make the pistol feel like it was moulded for your hand. They increase the width of the gun and provide a tackier surface, improving your grip and, consequently, your control over the pistol. This can be especially beneficial if you're looking for a more comfortable and secure hold on your firearm.
TALON Grips, for example, offers adhesive-backed rubber grips that can enhance your control and performance. Their textured rubber material is their most popular option, providing a non-abrasive and comfortable grip for concealed or open carry. The texture is designed to be effective in both wet and dry conditions, ensuring a consistent grip.
Additionally, companies like Handleitgrips specialise in manufacturing textured rubber grips for firearms. Their products are designed to cover more surface area, resulting in exceptional versatility and an improved grip. By using rubber grips, you can achieve a more confident and controlled handling experience with your pistol.
Overall, opting for rubber grips is a great way to enhance your shooting experience by providing increased control and comfort. They are specifically designed to improve your grip and performance, making them a popular choice for pistol owners seeking a more secure and confident hold on their firearms.
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Frequently asked questions
Use soap and water with an old toothbrush to clean the grips. Once dry, use paint to cover any worn areas.
A basic cleaning with bore cleaner can go a long way. For wood grips, you can use a furniture stripper to remove old varnish, then apply walnut stain and wood oil.
A mixture of soap and water applied with a toothbrush is a safe and gentle way to clean plastic pistol grips without causing damage.
Aerosol oven cleaners can be effective for extremely dirty or oil-soaked grips, but they can also cause discolouration. It is recommended to test on a small area first.
