Just started working my first kit (DDRII w/ CF). I am adding a relief for access to the liner lock. As a result I am cutting into the bolster a bit and will need to get the bead-blast finsh redone. Can anyone suggest an economical source for this service?

Hey CoinKnife, welcome aboard!

Hmmmm..... There is no real trick to this, but having the correct 'media' (abrasive) is key. I work in a motorcycle shop, and we have a captive sandblast cabinet. Changing the media to a finer grade would work fine. There has to be a number of businesses in your area that could do this. Also, any business that etches glass uses a sandblaster as well.

Or--you could sand them both and just have a rubbed finish instead. Others have done this, too.

Good luck.

Coop

My experience with the bolsters is that glass bead blasting does a nice job restoring the finish.
I've seen small blasting cabinets are available from Harbor Freight, Grizzly and others for under $ 100, which work fine with a little bit of extra sealing - and as long as you have an adequate compressor.
As Coop mentioned, the bolsters do look great sanded or polished. I like to work up to 1200 grit and bring them flush with the scales at the same time.

Thank you for the advise. I'll check a few local glass and machine shops.

One additional question...satin finish. I have sanded the bolsters to 400 grit and they are close to satin (a few remaining scratches to sand out). How do I get a true satin finish? buffer?

Hi Guys
They make a pencil blaster that is very inexpensive.
You can make your own cabinet out of plywood.
A small compressor and your in business!