Birchwood Casey is a name synonymous with gun bluing for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts. Their products offer a range of solutions for restoring, refinishing, and even customizing the look of firearms. This guide delves into the various Birchwood Casey gun bluing products, their applications, and best practices for achieving professional results.
Understanding Gun Bluing and Birchwood Casey's Role
Gun bluing, or blackening, is a metal finishing process that protects firearms from corrosion and enhances their aesthetic appeal. It involves a chemical reaction that creates a durable, dark oxide layer on the steel surface. Birchwood Casey has established itself as a leading provider of gun bluing solutions, offering a variety of products catering to different needs and skill levels. Their commitment to quality and ease of use makes them a popular choice among gun owners.
Types of Birchwood Casey Gun Bluing Products
Birchwood Casey offers several different gun bluing kits and solutions, each designed for specific applications:
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Birchwood Casey Perma Blue: This is arguably their most popular product, a cold bluing solution requiring no heat. It's ideal for touch-ups, small repairs, and even complete refinishing on smaller firearms. Its ease of use makes it perfect for beginners.
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Birchwood Casey Tru-Oil Gun Stock Finish: While not strictly a bluing agent, Tru-Oil is crucial for protecting the wood stock of a firearm. It penetrates the wood, providing a durable, water-resistant finish that enhances the beauty of the grain. Properly finished wood complements a beautifully blued metal surface.
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Birchwood Casey Super Blue: This is another cold bluing option, offering a darker, more durable finish compared to Perma Blue. It's often preferred for projects requiring a more robust and lasting protective layer.
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Birchwood Casey Brownells Oxpho-Blue: This is a hot bluing process, requiring a heat source. It results in a deep, rich blue-black finish that's incredibly durable. However, it requires more skill and specialized equipment.
Applying Birchwood Casey Gun Bluing: A Step-by-Step Guide (for Cold Bluing)
The process for applying cold bluing solutions like Perma Blue and Super Blue is relatively straightforward:
1. Preparation is Key:
- Cleaning: Thoroughly clean the firearm with a degreaser and steel wool to remove all rust, grease, and oil. This ensures optimal adhesion of the bluing solution.
- Preparation: Lightly sand the metal surface with fine-grit sandpaper to create a smooth, even surface for the bluing to adhere to.
- Masking: Use painter's tape to mask any areas you don't want to be blued, such as engravings or non-metal parts.
2. Applying the Bluing Solution:
- Application: Apply a thin, even coat of the bluing solution using a cotton swab, brush, or rag. Avoid heavy applications, as this can lead to uneven coloring.
- Drying: Allow the solution to dry completely according to the manufacturer's instructions. This typically involves a few minutes to several hours, depending on the product.
3. Multiple Coats for Deep Color:
- Repeat: Apply additional coats as needed to achieve the desired depth of color. Multiple thin coats are preferable to one heavy coat.
- Drying Between Coats: Ensure each coat is completely dry before applying the next.
4. Finishing Touches:
- Neutralization: Once the final coat is dry, neutralize the remaining solution with a neutralizer (often included in the kit). This prevents further reactions and seals the bluing.
- Lubrication: Lightly lubricate the firearm with a gun oil to protect the newly blued finish.
Beyond the Basics: Advanced Techniques and Considerations
While cold bluing is relatively simple, mastering the process takes practice. For more complex projects or for a superior finish, consider:
- Hot Bluing: Explore Birchwood Casey's hot bluing options for a more durable, professional finish, but remember that this requires specialized equipment and more experience.
- Surface Preparation: Precise surface preparation significantly impacts the final result. Proper cleaning and sanding are critical for even color and adhesion.
- Experimentation: Don't be afraid to experiment with different techniques and products to find the best approach for your specific needs.
By following these guidelines and understanding the nuances of each Birchwood Casey product, you can achieve professional-looking results and significantly improve the look and protection of your firearms. Remember to always consult the specific instructions provided with your chosen Birchwood Casey gun bluing product.
