Mini 14 surface rust

[memphisjim]

Ok I was given a mini 14 It's one of the early lightweight ones which I like. Problem is the reason it was given to me is that there is light surface rust all over the thing. Not to the point of pitting though

Couple of questions. One if I keep it oiled without removing the surface rust will it not rust any more?

Two what's it generally cost for some one to break one of these down and clean up rust and recoat the metal with Something?

[enfield]

IMHO,

Keeping it oiled/greased will prevent further rust. Rubbing it down with an oily rag will remove some rust. Just don't store it in a gun case.

0000 steel wool and oil, used lightly, will remove the surface rust but not the remaining bluing.

I'd contact a smith on rebluing cost. You can also have it refinished with one of the aftermarket finishes. There are some vendors on this forum.

Renaissance Wax is highly recommended by some for protecting blued finishes. I've just started using it, don't have any results to report yet.

Edited August 10, 2011 by enfield

[memphisjim]

After market finish is fine even preferred if its cheaper and better prevents rust

[dlm37015]

try breakfree wiped on with newsprint it takes a little work but it usually does the job for me

[Guest coldblackwind]

Liberal use of oil and steel wool. Not a big deal, good chance the finish won't be as bad as you expect once you get it cleaned up. After that either refinish it, or simply keep it very well oiled and it should be fine.

[memphisjim]

In Memphis guess y'all missed the part where I'd rather pay What's an honest price?

[memphisjim]

And who wants to do it ?

[Capbyrd]

Kings Custom Coatings is just across the river.

Or you could send it back to Ruger. Its about 130 for them to polish and reblue. Ruger Service Fees

[peejman]

Keeping it oiled will slow the rust process, but will not prevent further rust. You must remove the existing rust (steel wool, scotchbrite, etc.) and then treat the surface to prevent it continuing to corrode.

If you want to have it refinished, I wouldn't do anything prior to giving it to the refinisher. They're the expert, let them fix it.