Removing Buffing Compound

hoosier784 · May 10, 2008

Hey guys - what is the best way to remove buffing compound from creases and groves in the metal? I thought about a brass wire brush on a dremel, but thought there might be a better chemical solution. Any ideas? Thanks!

RSMITH · May 10, 2008

acetone

Chris Meyer · May 10, 2008

There may be better ways, but I find that WD-40 on a rag works pretty well to remove buffing compound.

george tichbourne · May 10, 2008

Most compounds are designed to be removed with soap and water but solvents like laquer thinners or even paste wax work well.

George

Mace · May 10, 2008

Try "Fantastic"....This is a trick I picked up from a jewler.
Mace

bikermikearchery · May 11, 2008

Fritz metal polish.

raythebigfoot · May 11, 2008

I use mineral spirits, but you can use a variety of solvents.

Original · May 11, 2008

Ultrasonic cleaner, with a good soap or solvent.

Steamcleaner.

Leu Custom · May 11, 2008

try either a Q-tip dipped in acetone or a tooth brush with soft to medium hard bristles dipped in acetone.

hoosier784 · May 11, 2008

Thanks guys, I got a railroad spike letter opener in the works for my wife's grandfather and the handle is quite pourous. Per your advice it should clean up real nice. Thanks again. Hoosier.

Michael Lovett · May 12, 2008

Here in the shop I use Fast Orange. The version with out the grit. Unlike Acetone, wd-40, M. spirits, it won't attack the adheasives use on knife grips. Mike Lovett http://knifelegends.com/ Featured Artist

Jim L. · May 13, 2008

george tichbourne said:
Most compounds are designed to be removed with soap and water but solvents like laquer thinners or even paste wax work well.

George

What he said plus denatured alcohol.

Jim L.

Michael Lovett · May 15, 2008

Mine sure aren't. The are a wax base. Hot soap and water won't touch the green buffing compounds.

Not to mention that we buff handle mat. also. you don't want soap and hot water much less alcohol any where most handle mat. surfaces.

David Schott · May 15, 2008

I dont like using acetone because i feel it sometimes dulls the finish i've buffed onto stabilized woods and certain materials. I use 0000 steel wool and it easilly takes it off and usually will not affect any finish unless its mirror polished metal. I find the buffing compound usually sticks to the wood and the metal it can be removed with a tiny amount of elbow grease and a paper towel.