Remington 51 finish.

[zulu6]

Today at the Houston Gun Show, I purchased an early (s/n PA40xx) Remington 51 pistol. This is an exceptional pistol with very sharp edges and markings of which there are few. All lettering (barrel "rib" address, serial number and the odd little mark where the anchor usually appears) are sharp and square cut, as are the slide serrations. There are none of the usual indications of the gun having been repolished or buffed.

But ~ and it's a big BUT ~ the finish looks and feels like a very light tan or khaki parkerized finish on all parts except the grip panels. Even the usual fireblued parts have this finish. To my somewhat inexpert eye this finish looks to be correct, but logic tells me that, at best it is improbable, perhaps doubtful and, at worst, it is not original ~ a dud.

Did Remington experiment with such a finish, or is this a case of an uncommon variation in finish?

All responses will be gratefully receieved and appreciated.

[ChuckD]

zulu
In the many years I have been collecting Remingtons I have never seen a finish such as you describe. Is it dull or shiney? I once saw a rifle with copper plateing, but I'm sure it wasn't factory original. With the matting on the slide, I would think it would be hard to refinish without it being obvious.
A photo might be helpful.
Chuck D

[zulu6]

Hello, ChuckD ~ in a more natural light than I viewed the gun in previously, the finish may be more of a light grey than sand; my old eyes are not quite what they were.

The finish is matte overall, and is apparently quite thin.

I will post a picture or two in the next day or so ~ I should have thought of this before.