Erfurt Grips

I dissagree with any soap and water cleaning of Luger grips.Some times used it 20 years ago--but it raises grain and makes fuz. I have cleaned and frequently recheckered [carefully by hand] dozens of grips in past. It is a top secret method---but for good Luger buffs--here it is. The product is paste type paint and varnish remover --Kleen Strip available at Walmart and---. Cover the grips with paste and let it set--sometimes and hour or more.. Use tooth brush to remove paste and goo--brushing both ways with checkering. Blot and wipe with soft paper towels and blow dry with air compressor blow gun. Some times I blot with paper towel soaked in Acetone before blowing dry. If grips still too dark repeat process. Linseed oil seems a bit much for grips. I use Pilkstons red/brown rubbing oil applied with q tips. If this not dark enough for your taste --apply Pilkstons pre64 stain with q tip. these products are available from Bronnels. Bit expensive but one bottle lasts forever. The paste also works wonders for military stocks that are full of years of cosmoline and crud. I do agree with linseed for final finish on stocks. Seems no two guys like the same color of Luger grips..I prefer a medium redish brown. Some want them dark as the proverbal Ace. Note that some 1920 comms. have very light unstained grips.