What are the different types of gun bluing?
There are four basic types of gun bluing.
- Hot Bluing. Hot bluing uses a heated alkaline solution.
- Cold Bluing. Cold bluing is used for cosmetic touch-ups of previously blued firearms.
- Rust Bluing. Rust bluing is an older bluing process that is not used much anymore.
- Fire Bluing.
Is rust bluing better than hot bluing?
Although a very slow process, cold rust bluing produces a deep blue color generally considered to be the most durable kind of bluing. By contrast, hot-water bluing processes can produce a deep blue finish in just a couple of hours, rather than several days.
Is black oxide the same as gun bluing?
In colloquial use, thin coatings of black oxide are often termed ‘gun bluing’, while heavier coatings are termed ‘black oxide’. Both refer to the same chemical process for providing true gun bluing.
Should you Reblue a gun?
The short answer is no. If it’s your intent to maintain a firearm’s collectibility and value, the answer is usually “no”; don’t re-blue your gun. Firearms with an original finish, even if they have visible wear and discoloration are generally more valuable than those that have been refinished (re-blued or parkerized).
Will vinegar remove gun bluing?
Pour enough white vinegar to completely cover all of your gun parts. Remove the parts from the vinegar every 20 to 25 minutes and wipe down the oxidation. Continue to soak the parts until all bluing is removed. Remove the parts from the vinegar once all bluing has been removed and dispose of the vinegar.
Is parkerizing better than bluing?
Parkerizing is commonly used on firearms as a more effective alternative to bluing, which is an earlier-developed chemical conversion coating. It is also used extensively on automobiles to protect unfinished metal parts from corrosion. Passivation can be used for protecting other metals.
Does cold bluing prevent rust?
Does bluing prevent rust? Cold bluing is a controlled oxidation of ferrous metals similar to rust. Whether cold or hot blued, these metals should be treated with a wax, lacquer or water displacing oil to reduce exposure to corrosion causing moisture.
What chemicals are in gun bluing?
True gun bluing is an electrochemical conversion coating resulting from an oxidizing chemical reaction with iron on the surface selectively forming magnetite (Fe3O4), the black oxide of iron.
Does Rebluing a gun decrease value?
Rebluing only decreases the value. Rebluing a $500 gun, if you try to sell it, you’d likely still get $500 out of it, if not less.
What kind of bluing do you use on guns?
It is a high quality custom cold bluing which is used by Gunsmiths, Blacksmiths, Metal Artisans, Hobbyist and Manufacturers to oxidize and blacken steel. Gun bluing is a conventional finish applied to firearms. Bluing shields protect the steel from corrosion and gives the metal a very dark blue finish.
What kind of Finish do you put on a gun?
Gun bluing is a traditional finish applied to firearms. Bluing helps protect the steel from corrosion and gives the metal a very dark blue finish. The factory bluing process hasn’t changed much over the years, and gun owners can also now buy home bluing kits to touch up or refinish their firearms.
What’s the difference between cold bluing and fire bluing?
Not to be confused with hot bluing, fire bluing is the process of heating a polished steel part until the surface of the metal changes color to a deep blue. It’s not as durable as hot bluing, but like cold bluing, can be easily done at home. It produces a colorful and attractive finish, ideal for smaller gun parts or restorations.
Which is the best method for bluing steel?
Hot bluing is the most preferred method due to its effectiveness. This method uses the heated alkaline liquid to heat metal instead of the heat gun. Sodium hydroxide & potassium nitrate are common solutions in this process. And, that is why many people know it like this. Hot bluing offers protection for the steel from rust and gives a lasting look.
