How to Blue a Gun
Bluing a firearm is a great way of ensuring it has protection from rust as well as giving it a new look. Bluing your firearm might just be the thing you need to consider if you want to give your firearm proper protection. Whether you’re restoring an old firearm to its former glory or simply want to enhance the protection and aesthetics of a more modern gun, bluing can provide a uniquely sleek and protective finish that sets your gun apart from the rest. In this Shooters Mart guide, we’ll dive into what bluing is, its benefits and a step by step instructional guide on how to blue your firearm
What is Bluing?
Bluing is a chemical process of passivation in which steel can become protected against rust using a black oxide coating. It's called blueing as the finish it leaves on the firearm gives it a blackish blue appearance. There are a couple of different types of bluing as well though they all generally follow the same principal but have different results and procedures.
Cold bluing is generally a compound that colours the steel of your firearm black or dark grey. The compound used for cold bluing is generally a more difficult product to apply evenly and is mostly recommended for small fast repair jobs and touch-ups. Cold bluing as the name implies does not involve any external heating elements and can be the easiest “DIY” method for most people.
Hot bluing is typically done at high temperatures of up to 155 °C using a slightly different compound. Hot bluing is normally done by manufacturers as an easier and more economical way of bluing a firearm and is also considered to be more effective than cold bluing. Hot bluing provides good rust resistance, which can then be improved with oil.
Rust bluing provides the best rust and corrosion resistance as the process is a continuous one that converts any rustable metal immediately into magnetite or the “blue” protection that is seen. As always, an oiled coating further enhances the protection offered by the bluing. Rust bluing is also the only process safely used to blue or re-blue vintage shotguns. Many double-barreled shotguns are soft soldered or silver brazed together and with many attachment parts using the same material. Higher temps in hot bluing and the caustic nature of the cold bluing compound could weaken the soldered joints and damage the firearm.
Benefits of Bluing a Gun
Bluing your firearm, whether by yourself or through the use of a gunsmith, is a great way of preventing rust from forming on your gun. Blued guns are protected from rust and even better protected when properly oiled so you can rest easy knowing the enemy that is rust is safely at bay.
Blued guns tend to have a smoother finish that not only looks sleek but also feels great in hand. The deep blue black colour achieved through the bluing process adds a touch of elegance to your firearm, making it stand out among others. Whether you're a collector or an avid shooter, having a beautifully blued gun in your arsenal is sure to turn heads at the range.
Step by Step Guide to Bluing a Gun
The following guide will show you how to cold blue your gun as that is the easiest and most convenient way to do so at home. To begin cold bluing a gun, start by disassembling the firearm into its individual components. Take your time to ensure each part is thoroughly cleaned and free of any debris or oils that may interfere with the bluing process. Start off by using sandpaper or a polishing wheel to remove the surface rust and create a uniform and clean surface for the metal parts of your gun.
Next you will want to finish this cleaning by using a cloth dipped in acetone to remove any and all gun oils and other residue from the metal of the gun. Make sure to be wearing gloves for this and following steps as acetone and bluing solution are not chemically friendly for human skin. Continue wiping the surfaces until there are no streaks or residue of oil left on the cloth and the metal is uniformly clean.
Start carefully applying the bluing solution onto each component using a clean cloth or applicator. Put the bluing solution in a separate container and use that new container exclusively for this process. Dipping into the original container will eventually destroy the bluing solution and render it unusable. Make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions closely to achieve an even and consistent finish on the metal surfaces. Use only a very small amount of solution and make long, even strokes to apply. You can ensure a small amount of solution is applied by thoroughly wringing the cloth or applicator before applying.
Once all parts have been coated with the bluing solution, get a bowl of water and carefully soak the parts to remove any excess solution. You can use a small sponge to help with this task. Once they have been rinsed, use a cloth or paper towel to thoroughly pat dry all of your parts. Once they are completely dry, use a gun oil of your choice or any other suitable oil and thoroughly cover all of your gun parts. You will want to leave them oiled for at least 5 hours, preferably overnight so that the oil can soak into the parts.
Once you have let the parts sit in the oil, remove all of the excess oil and you will have completed the process of bluing your firearm. Now all that's left is to reapply gun oil for protection, reassemble your firearm and you will be good to go!
Bluing a firearm is not just about enhancing its appearance but also about protecting it from rust and corrosion. By following the step by step guide you can ensure that your newly blued gun will remain in top condition for years to come. Shooters Mart are Australia's number one supplier for firearm accessories and supplies, visit our store today and find the perfect accessories for your budding firearm collection.