Metal Finishes

There are several options today for the finish of your newly customized rifle. Some you can do at home others its better to let your gunsmith tackle. Always follow the instructions for application that comes with the finish you decide upon ! The most popular types of finish are as follows in no particular order.

• Bluing - Cold bluing is probably 1 of the the easiest applied in the home workshop but over long term use it fades or wears off with time .The Time it takes to start deplinishing will vary with the use and elements the rifle is exposed to. Hot bluing Which is best left to your gunsmith to apply as it requires a bluing tank to heat the solvent up to dip the parts in. Hot bluing Leaves an excellent finish and will out last cold bluing by far but is still very easily mared or scratched.See the Gunsmith Tips section for a slow rust blueing process
• Parkerizing - This is the finish you find on most U.S older military rifles. It is very durable and has proven to stand the test of time in all types weather. It protects your rifle from rain, blazing sun and any element imaginable very well. It comes in gray, black and green you can buy the kits to do it yourself . Your gunsmith would probable park your gun at a very reasonable price which is always worth checking into before buying the kit.
• Gun-Kote Baking Laquer- This is an excellent finish for appearance and protection. After prepping your parts simply preheat them apply a thin coat bake and repeat till desired finish is achieved. As you guessed this requires an oven [ see baking oven below ]. I have heard of these finishes lasting years with no chipping or problems of any kind . This finish was first used by the U.S Navy Seals on thier weapons to protect them against the harshest enviroment. Durability is determined by the care put forth in metal prepping and number of coats applied.

*Baking oven - Steve Wagner has a terrific article on Building a curing oven for these finishes click here .