What did Colt use finish the walnut grip on...

[Got Colt]

Please, help me. I’m here mainly because I need an expert or five. I have a Signature Series 1860 Army with the accessories. Once, while attaching a stock I dented both sides of the grip. I have an idea how to repair most of the damage. I thought after removing the grip I would strip the finish with Zip Strip. Then I’d use a small electric hobby iron and a damp rag to swell the dents. Then refinish the grip and reattach it. Does anybody have a better idea? What finish did Colt use?

[ssb73q]

Hi Got Colt, IMO it was probably boiled linseed oil. However, you can never go wrong with Tru-Oil:

https://www.amazon.com/Birchwood-Casey-True-Oil-Finish-8-Ounce/dp/B0000C5398/ref=sxts_sxwds-bia-wc-rsf1_0?cv_ct_cx=Casey+True-Oil&dchild=1&keywords=Casey+True-Oil&pd_rd_i=B0000C5398&pd_rd_r=1d1e0e05-cf6a-4500-8dec-22462630473d&pd_rd_w=us9Ln&pd_rd_wg=tAgfC&pf_rd_p=5d815bf0-8407-4925-96a4-1fe69f424373&pf_rd_r=AT25CRZXC7ZVARPG1ZC7&psc=1&qid=1612369233&s=sporting-goods&sr=1-1-526ea17f-3f73-4b50-8cd8-6acff948fa5a

Photo of grip refinished with Tru-Oil.

Regards,
Richard

[ShotgunDave]

Welcome to Colt Country!

I agree with Richard. BLO or Try-Oil are your best bet. It sounds like you already have a good plan to repair the damage.

We'd love to see some pictures when you get it done.

[tljack]

All there years, it has been my understanding that it was varnish.......?

[mazo kid]

Maybe, but this is a modern reproduction. I have an old electric iron that I use for projects like that. And you can make your own "TruOil" by mixing Polyurethane and mineral spirits.

[Hawg]

All there years, it has been my understanding that it was varnish.......?

Original 1851 and 1860 Colt's had black walnut grips. Civilian grips were hand polished varnish. Military grips were oil finished.

[tljack]

Thanks for the clarification Hawg!