US Army Colt 1911

My grandad left me a Colt 1911. Overall it is in decent shape but has rust spots and normal cleaning will not remove. I’m struggling what to do with this gun. I hear that having it refinished will hurt the value but I have no intention of ever selling. Any suggestions is much appreciated.

Check with a guy in Newville. He specializes in 1911’s.

Cogan

Thanks Cactus.

I've got a 44 Remington Rand that was in the Ardennes. I shoot it occasionally, and enjoy it. It's not perfect, but it's 100% original. Took it 70 something years to look like that. Keep it clean and enjoy it from time to time.

You can take #0000 steel wool and pour kroil penatrating oil or clp oil into the steel wool then very lightly scrub the rust spots but don't over do it.you would be surprised sometimes if it's just surface spots it will take care of it.anytine you refinish something you devalue it but I've seen alot of reblued guns sell for alot of money just because of rarity or value of that particular firearm.personally I'd leave it alone unless it's in real tough shape.army issue colts are bringing good money now days

Thanks guys. I definitely have no intentions on selling it. I just can’t decide if I want to get it back new again.

I would clean and lube. Then store the gun correctly. Nothing else

Bet Gundoc could cerakote it. Saw a piece in American Handgunner that "aged" a modern Springfield Armory 80 years.

I bet your Grandad could just about tell you when and how those rust spots came about. I'd leave it as is for the added character on the weapon but keep it cleaned and don't let the rust spread.

Doing any more than this will destroy both the monetary value and the historic significance. Might as well trade it for a new reproduction and let someone else enjoy this piece of history.

Thanks for the suggestions guys. After doing more research and input from here I believe I will leave it As Is. Thanks everyone.

My gun came with the original tank crew holster, that I since cleaned and stored. I ordered one of these to use when I shoot it. They're not 100% correct, but they're pretty close and pretty good quality. Also 20% off due to Black Friday.

https://www.ww2gear.com/p-39627-us-m3-leather-shoulder-holster-for-m1911a1-45-russet-wwii-repro.aspx

I am glad to find this thread. Mine is the 1911, but produced in 1913 from my great-grandfathers time in WWI. I still have the leather flip over holster with US imprinted into it along with his compass. It sounds like it is in about the same condition as yours and I have always wondered if I should do anything more to it that oil it.