Nitro Solvent Question

[thejoe]

Guys,
I've been using nitro solvent to get all the burnt powder residue and surface rust off my firearms for as long as I've been cleaning them. I'm starting to notice on some, though, that the blueing isn't as good as it used to be.

Now, is this a result of the nitro solvent, or is another practice of mine wrong and causing premature wear on my firearms? The ones I've noticed it on the most are my SKS and 522 Viper. These firearms are my oldest and have been cleaned the most. I can't tell if it's bad for my XD or not.

What do you all use to clean this particular substance off your firearms? I've heard breakfree works well... should I be using that instead? Of course, after the cleaning, I leave a light coat of oil on the firearm to prevent rusting.

Any input on this topic would be much appreciated. It scares me to think that for 10+ years of firearms cleaning has been done incorrectly.

joe

[xd4life]

Well you can expect some fading on firearms with sub-par finishes, Like the SKS. You are using an abrasive chemical on another chemical process. Not sure there is much you can do about it. Re-blue them every 20 years?? I dunno.

For the last couple of years I have used Blue Wonder and have seen no wear problems on my XD or any of my newer firearms. The guns that have been handed down to me from my grandpa and dad, that I know have only been cleaned with Hoppes 9 do seem a little faded. But not enough that it is a big concern, If so I will re blue.... I think with todays melonite/tennefer/ or moly coating you shouldn't have to worry.

Someone out there more knowing than I will shed more light on the subject...