Rust can ruin a good firearm. Cold bluing is a simple way to restore the finish. It’s much easier than hot bluing. You can do it at home. I’ve tried a few different brands over the years. Some worked great, others not so much. So, I’m sharing my top picks to help you choose the right one.
Product Overview / Quick Summary
- Birchwood Casey Perma Blue: Fast-acting, deep blue finish, good for touch-ups.
- 液体のガンブルー (Liquid Gun Blue): Affordable, easy to apply, suitable for beginners.
- Brownells Oxpho-Blue: Professional-grade, durable finish, requires careful prep.
- Blue Wonder Gun Blue: Non-toxic, good for small parts, slow to develop color.
- Mark Lee Express Blue #1: Produces a dark, even finish, great for complete re-bluing.
Top 5 Best Cold Bluing Solutions
Birchwood Casey Perma Blue
Birchwood Casey Perma Blue is a popular choice. It’s known for its fast-acting formula. It gives a deep blue finish. Many people use it for small touch-ups. I’ve used it to fix scratches on my shotgun. It worked really well.
Pros:
- ✅ Fast-acting formula saves time.
- ✅ Deep blue finish looks professional.
- ✅ Easy to apply for quick touch-ups.
Cons:
- ❌ Can streak if not applied evenly.
- ❌ Strong odor during application.
- ❌ Requires thorough degreasing for best results.
Verdict: Great for quick fixes and small areas. Best if you need a fast, reliable solution.
液体のガンブルー (Liquid Gun Blue)
液体のガンブルー (Liquid Gun Blue) is a budget-friendly option. It is easy to use. This makes it good for beginners. The finish might not be as durable as others. However, it’s a solid choice for the price. I used this when I was starting out. It’s very forgiving if you make mistakes.
Pros:
- ✅ Very affordable option.
- ✅ Simple application process.
- ✅ Good for beginners.
Cons:
- ❌ Finish not as durable as others.
- ❌ May require multiple coats.
- ❌ Color can be uneven on some metals.
Verdict: Ideal for those on a budget. Also great for first-time users of cold bluing.
Brownells Oxpho-Blue
Brownells Oxpho-Blue is a professional-grade bluing solution. It gives a very durable finish. It requires careful preparation. Degreasing and cleaning are crucial. I’ve seen gunsmiths use this. The results are always impressive, but it takes skill.
Pros:
- ✅ Professional-grade results.
- ✅ Very durable and long-lasting finish.
- ✅ Produces a deep, rich blue-black color.
Cons:
- ❌ Requires meticulous surface preparation.
- ❌ More expensive than other options.
- ❌ Can be tricky to apply evenly.
Verdict: Best for experienced users who want a top-quality, durable finish.
Blue Wonder Gun Blue
Blue Wonder Gun Blue is a non-toxic option. It’s safe to use. It is good for small parts. It develops color slowly. It might take several applications. I used it on some small screws once. The non-toxic aspect was a big plus for me.
Pros:
- ✅ Non-toxic and safer to use.
- ✅ Good for small parts and intricate details.
- ✅ Easy cleanup with water.
Cons:
- ❌ Color develops slowly.
- ❌ May require multiple applications.
- ❌ Not as effective on larger surfaces.
Verdict: A good choice if you need a non-toxic solution. Also good for small parts and detailed work.
Mark Lee Express Blue #1
Mark Lee Express Blue #1 produces a dark, even finish. It’s excellent for complete re-bluing projects. This is what I would use if I had to refinish an entire firearm. It provides a consistent, professional look.
Pros:
- ✅ Produces a dark, even finish.
- ✅ Great for complete re-bluing projects.
- ✅ Provides a consistent, professional look.
Cons:
- ❌ Requires some experience to apply correctly.
- ❌ Needs careful temperature control.
- ❌ Can be a bit more expensive than other options.
Verdict: Best for full re-bluing. Ideal for achieving a uniform, dark finish.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right cold bluing solution can be tricky. Here are some things to consider.
- Project Size: Are you doing a small touch-up or a complete re-blue? Small touch-ups need fast-acting solutions. Full re-blues need even coverage.
- Metal Type: Some solutions work better on certain metals. Check the product description. Make sure it’s compatible with your firearm’s metal.
- Ease of Use: Are you a beginner? Look for easy-to-apply solutions. Professional-grade options require more skill.
- Durability: How long do you want the finish to last? Some finishes are more durable than others. Consider how often you use the firearm.
- Safety: Consider non-toxic options if safety is a concern. Always wear gloves and eye protection. Work in a well-ventilated area.
- Preparation is Key: No matter which solution you choose, proper preparation is essential. This includes thorough degreasing and cleaning of the metal surface. Use a dedicated degreaser and ensure all traces of oil and dirt are removed.
- Application Technique: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Apply thin, even coats. Avoid pooling or streaking. Use the recommended applicators, such as cotton swabs or clean cloths.
- Multiple Coats: For best results, apply multiple thin coats rather than one thick coat. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next. This will help to build up a deeper, more uniform finish.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about cold bluing.
Q: What is cold bluing?
A: Cold bluing is a chemical process. It adds a protective layer to steel. It helps prevent rust and corrosion. It’s a simpler alternative to hot bluing.
Q: How long does cold bluing last?
A: It depends on the product and usage. Some finishes last for years. Others may need reapplication sooner. Regular cleaning and oiling help.
Q: Is cold bluing difficult to do?
A: No, it’s not too hard. Some solutions are very easy. Proper prep is most important. Follow the instructions carefully.
Q: Can I use cold bluing on stainless steel?
A: No, cold bluing is not effective on stainless steel. It’s designed for carbon steel.
Q: What safety precautions should I take?
A: Wear gloves and eye protection. Work in a well-ventilated area. Keep the chemicals away from children and pets.
Conclusion
Cold bluing is a great way to protect and restore your firearms. Choose the right solution for your needs. Remember to prep the surface well. Follow the instructions. You’ll get a great-looking, durable finish. Good luck with your project!
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