I bought an exceptional early Remington 51 at the Houston giunshow yesterday. Its s/n is PA40xx, and all edges and markings are sharp and clear and show none of the typical evidence of repolishing or buffing. Under a loupe all markings (address on barrel "rib", serial number and odd marling where the anchor usually sits) are cut sharp and square with no hint of rounding. Even the slide serations are very sharp.
The remarkable thing about this gun, though, is its finish ~ a light tan (maybe khaki) parkerized-like finish; not a touch of blue anywhere. Even the parts that are normally fireblue have this odd finish.
Has anyone else here ever seen such a finish on a Rem 51? Or possibly offer an explanation?