Cleaning old grips
 

Just picked up a Portuguese Navy, and the grips are filthy. Any thoughts on the best way to clean them? Thanks

I like to use a bit of paint thinner or mineral spirits, maybe with just a bit of linseed oil blended in and carefully clean them with a toothbrush.
There are differing schools of thought on the subject, from cleaning and re-checkering to doing nothing, leaving the dirt on.
Be careful, handle them with great care, and do nothing aggressive.
dju

Everybody here has got his own way, in any case if you have a look at the FAQ you'll probably find some answers already.

Regards.

Also do a search of existing threads, this subject is frequently discussed.

No one ever reads the stickys or tries the search feature first!:p

I think many do; those who don't are missing a great pleasure as the wealth of knowledge here and on the Jan Still site are impressive. Just trying to share the fun with my 'recommendation'.;)

I had my grips cleaned by Jim Solomon here on the forum. His work is impeccable, you won’t regret it.

A number of those Portuguese Navy Lugers were stored in drums of old motor oil and the grips are a mess. Here in southern New Mexico we have an abundance of hot summer sun. I put my grips out in the sun on paper towels and you would be astounded at the amount of oil that baked out of them. They never did become completely free of the oil but a bit of mineral spirits and an old toothbrush helped them along a bit more. Still not pristine but more in line with the condition of the rest of the gun.
Ron

I usually use Simple Green, it is not very caustic, however, no matter how you clean it will look gray and icky - but then once dried you use boiled linseed oil or the like and they look good.
Simple green - toothbrush, washing with water - repeat - they will look used but not new (which is what I want)...

Jim is my hero! He is a miracle worker and very reasonable!!! God Bless~