Dull finish on Green Mtn barrel, what to use??

[HighStrung]

I recently purchased a 18" fluted stainless heavy barrel for my 10/22 build and I was somewhat surprised when I opened the package. It'll really dirty/dingy looking. My factory barrel was a nice clean stainless, the compensator I ordered for this build was clean and shiny, but this barrel wasn't. It's a darker grey looking color more than stainless in my opinion and even the markings of the manufacturer look pretty cruddy. What should I use to bring a higher shine to this barrel, and is this pretty common for the Green Mtn barrels? Will edit with pics when I get back home tonight.

 

[U.S. Patriot]

I would first try some Wadding Polish. You can buy it at auto parts stores.

 

[Colt556]

There are a number of things you can use depending on the final look you want to achieve. I've used;

0000 Steel wool
Fine sanding sponges
220-600 wet/dry sanding paper
Never Dull polishing wadding
Semichrome or similar paste

Decide what you want it to look like when you're finished and then decide which product will get you there.

 

[DownByTheTracks]

I'd ask for a replacement.

 

[sshelton]

hey i have some mothers aluminum wheel polish you can use...