Brass

[Col. Batguano]

The shinier you make it, the slower it will tarnish. I took a butt plate on my Ohio Vincent up to 2000 grit one time and I could have used it as a signal mirror. Now I usually don't go much further than 800 grit if I want something of a mat finish.

 

[ZUG]

I agree with what some have already said that they will polish a new build to a nice satin / gloss finish and then let it age naturally during the gun's life. A highly polished gun does not do well in the woods if you are trying to blend into natures background.

 

[Omahkapi'si]

Patina! If I had a daughter I’d name her Patina

 

[Desert Dawg]

Lots of great information, thanks! I asked the question because I got my Pedersoli Kentucky percussion pistol kit. It has lots of brass for its size. I'm thinking I'll polish it up, as I plan to use it as a show piece and paper killer. I don't think the shine will scare off the targets. However, my rifle has dulled over the 18 years I've had it and it looks good.