TexasCHLforum.com

It's been many years since I was in the industry, but a few pointers for those who are interested.

Most blast media has abrasive qualities, though some like glass will peen more than abrade. Precision machine parts are sometimes bead blasted to peen the micro burr and bring the part into specs. (like forging)

For paint prep use an abrasive such as sand to give the item an anchor so the paint will adhere.

Sieve size, pressure and volume will give different results with the same media. Nozzle orifice must be sized for the air volume. High speed air volume is important. Be careful of the distance between the item and the nozzle.

For treasured items -I suggest testing a scrap piece of similar metal before blasting. (Dont ask how I know)

If I wanted to just clean the OP's pistol I would have first tried walnut shell, and if not satisfactory, soda.

In blasting media, less is more. Adjust the air/media ratio to the point where it looks like it's just air blowing from the nozzle & it you need more barely increase the media feed. Start with low pressure, maybe 60 pounds and increase if need be.

I like the OP's gun. Nice.

https://www.finishingsystems.com/blog/a ... dia-guide/

BTW I have etched several things, guns, glass, shower doors, mirrors, etc. Make a stencil from adhesive backed soft plastic or rubber. I have used decals, shelf paper and pipe line/electrical tape.