Colt Govt. .380, Rust and Finish

[IN_Sheepdog]

I have had a Colt Govt .380 which I have used pretty much as either EDC or as a BUG since I purchased it in 1985. (Dang I feel old!. )

Anyway, it has been developing a surface type rust on the areas where it comes in contact with my extremely acidic hands. (in particular the front/back straps, and the slide lock release lever...)

My safe has both an electric stick dehumidifier as well as one of the Eva-Dry Crystal Beads dehumidifier.

Questions for you:
1) Do I need to change something in my storage safe?
2) What is recommended for removal/prevention of this type of rust?
3) Any suggestions on what can be done to recover the finish? (I am not in a position right now to have it "re-blued" )

I have used Breakfree CLP for the internal parts and it is not showing any wear or rust inside, just outside where my oily hands come in contact with it. I also dont want to coat the damn thing in BreakFree. That will be an oily mess.
Would Hoppes 9 work better?

Any suggestions appreciated...

 

[Turn Key]

Start using the "Breakfree CLP" cleaner. This will protect all metal surfaces from rust and corrosion.

CLP will "Clean Lube & Protect" all gun surfaces.

JMO,

~TK

 

[Turn Key]

If the rust is real bad, use the CLP with a piece of Green Scotch-Brite to scrub the rust away. If worse, try the CLP with a very fine 0004 steel wool.

~TK