Not very familiar with SS but have heard the same timing suggestions about cast whatever pans and not to wash them with detergent. Nonstick coatings IMO don't like to be heated empty and on a campfire. They might get too hot if you don't pay attention.

Never used 1400 grit wet/dry but I know a buffing wheel and various polishing compounds (up to Jewelers Rouge) can do great things to embossed glass bottles after grinding off the embossing. I assume SS could take the same treatment. Whatever works for you is great!

I currently have a small/light no stick pan I kept because it snuggled my pots really well. It still works as advertised after I don't know, 3, 4, 5 years? It's thin though so it requires attention.

All I know for sure is if it ain't broke, count your blessings and enjoy.