There is a very real diference between a traditional blued metal surface and a SS factory finish surface. In the process of blueing, the 'pores' of the metal, and any imperfections or machining marks are filled and a glass like surface is created on top of the metal itself. A Stainless surface can be polished to achieve just such a surface but it is different in that the 'pores' and imperfections are reduced by removing metal during the polish process itself in addition to the compound filling in microscopic aberations. As to how they feel, pick up a barrel that has been bead blasted, one that is factory finished SS and one that has a good quality gloss blue finish. Thinking out loud again, pay no attention to man behind the curtain. kb