Draw filing the barrel/ how bright?

[pcrum]

I'm sure that this has already been addressed, but I couldn't find it in a search. As some of you already know, I'm working on a TOTW jaeger. I'm currently working on cleaning up the colerain barrel. I read Zonie's excellent postin on how to file. So my question is this: how bright is "Armory Bright?"
As I understand it, most Jaegers were finished armory bright.
Do I polish it until it shines like chrome? Or just draw file the milling marks off?
I filed the polished one flat so far, it's pretty much looking like chrome or stainless. when I'm done I plan to use the gun rather than hang it on the wall, but I want it to start out looking as proper as a new german gun would have in the early to mid 18th century. From there I can let it age and patina. In otherwords, I don't want to half ass the finish just 'cause it's going to get rusty anyway.

Thanks,
Patrick

 

[Birddog6]

That all depends on how YOU want it, as it is your rifle. There is no set way to sand or finish one, it is up to the builder.

I would draw file it & then sand it with a block of wood with 320 wet/dry paper is more than adequate. IMHO. You could polish it with 600 if the idea hits ya right.... Then a lil Mothers Mag Wheel Polish & that bably will shine like a new penny....... but if it is going t be let to patina, the extra work will soon not be noticable....

When I brown one I don't sand them at all, I draw fine them til there are no noticable lines & brown the barrel......

If it is a flintlock, Do Not file where the vent is going, leave about 2-3" there alone til you get the vent in & file it down flush & etc. as it is important it be flat there.

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