Side plate edge flattening

Alfred

E. Deplorabus Unum
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Wasn't sure whether to post here or in Gunsmithing. Picked up a Smith Model 60-7 a while back that was a little bit unloved- the top edge of the side plate has some slight evidence of someone attempting to pry it off- not totally rough / buggered but just stands proud a tiny bit when you run your finger across it. Anyone have a non-invasive method for flattening it ? Its not gross but since its a shooter I thought I might try.
 
Every time that I've ever tried to fix something like that... end up wishing that I never tried. Hate to say it. That said, if you're going to try it, probably good that it's a 60 and not blued or nickel. That is a very delicate edge.

Some of the real gurus over at the big SW forum might have a special secret.
 
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Put a piece of wood over it and tap it with the hammer. Also, stainless can be touched up with sandpaper, finish up with a very fine grit. I've bought stainless 1911s with some horrible idiot marks and made them disappear by using different grit sandpaper.
 
Thanks to all of you for ideas- this one came at a good price but want to not be "that guy" who turns a 90% gun into a 75% gun. Maybe I'll just enjoy its flaws and not dink with it. Aint going in no museum...
 
If you have a Babbit Bar, clean it really, really good on one side, place it against the face flat of the side plate, after you have cleaned it very good, lay the side plate on a very sturdy surface and strike the Babbit Bar, NOT the side plate. Begin very gently and increase the strike force only if required to achieve the desired results.
 
I've decided that I can stare at it the way it is a while longer - its really not that bad at all compared to some I've seen. There is one other small nick elsewhere I will dress up but will leave the sideplate alone unless I'm positive I can improve it.
 
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