Gun Bluing Kits
Gun enthusiasts and collectors alike know the importance of preserving and restoring the beauty of their firearms. One way to achieve this is through the use of gun bluing kits. These kits offer a simple and effective way to enhance the overall appearance of your prized possession. In this roundup, we’ll explore the top-rated gun bluing kits currently available on the market, helping you make an informed decision on the best choice for your valued firearms.
The Top 9 Best Gun Bluing Kits
- Pachmayr Pistol Bluing Kit for Beginners — Lyman’s Pistol Starter Kit 7837820, featuring a robust 600D nylon bag and 25dB noise reduction ear protection, is an affordable and convenient way for shooters to gear up.
- Safe & Reliable Blue & Rust Remover for Firearms — Effortlessly remove rust and old blue from firearms and tools with the versatile Birchwood Casey Blue & Rust Remover — your go-to solution for hassle-free restoration!
- ODIN Works ZULU Adjustable Stock Kit with Padded Tube and Ambi QD Plate — Get the perfect fit with Odin Works ZULU Adjustable Stock, featuring a padded intermediate buffer tube, ambi sling/QD plate, and a length of pull: min-12, designed for both rifle and carbine builds.
- Brownells Gun Bluing Kit — T-4 Creme for Superior Finish — Brownells Dicropan T-4 Creme Gun Blue 4oz, a highly praised gun bluing kit designed for impeccable, quick coloring of a variety of steel surfaces, offering seamless touch-ups with minimal disruption to the surrounding bluing.
- Oxpho-blue Professional Gun Bluing Kit — Experience flawless, professional-grade cold blue gun bluing with Oxpho-Blue, delivering a durable and weather-resistant finish, all without any after-rust!
- Vew Fck Field Weapon Gun Bluing Kit — Protect and maintain your firearms with ease thanks to Vulture Equipment Works Vew Fck Field Weapon, an all-in-one kit complete with essential accessories for a hassle-free cleaning experience.
- Black Oxide Gel Kit for Spot Blackening of Steel and Iron — Effortlessly blacken steel and iron surfaces with ease using Caswell Black Oxide Gel Kit, providing a durable, dry finish in just minutes.
- Professional Deburring Tool for Steel, Aluminum, & More — The Noga NG8350 is a versatile gun bluing kit, perfect for deburring a variety of materials and designed with the user in mind, making it a top choice for metal finishing enthusiasts with an impressive rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars.
- Nitrofire Breach Cleaning Kit for Firearms — Experience the ultimate gun cleaning kit with the Traditions A1950 Nitrofire Breach Cleaning Kit — a must-have for all outdoor enthusiasts.
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Reviews
Pachmayr Pistol Bluing Kit for Beginners
This Pachmayr Pistol Starter Kit is an excellent option for those looking to get started in pistol shooting. It comes with all the basic accessories you need, including eye and ear protection, and is housed in a robust 600D nylon shooter’s carry bag. The bag is perfect for transporting your equipment to and from the range, and its tough material ensures your gear stays protected.
The set also includes a QwikDrawTM barrel cleaner for cleaning your pistol after use, which eliminates the need for traditional cleaning rods and patches. At a great cost savings compared to purchasing items individually, this Pachmayr Starter Kit is a reliable and convenient choice for pistol enthusiasts.
Safe & Reliable Blue & Rust Remover for Firearms
The Birchwood Casey Blue & Rust Remover is a versatile solution that effectively removes old blue and rust from firearms, muzzleloaders, and antiques without causing damage to the base metal. It’s also great for cleaning tools, gauges, and precision instruments. This product has a four-star rating from 60 reviews, with an average rating of 4.7.
Weight-wise, the remover comes in a 3-ounce bottle, making it perfect for tackling rust in small areas or applying it to specific parts. Users have praised its effectiveness in removing rust and old bluing, as well as its ease of use. Some customers recommend using the product in conjunction with other Birchwood Casey products, such as their Cold Blue Finish. However, a few users have had varying results with effectiveness, particularly when trying to tackle deep-pitted rust. Overall, the Birchwood Casey Blue & Rust Remover is a reliable and easy-to-use product for cleaning and restoring a variety of items.
ODIN Works ZULU Adjustable Stock Kit with Padded Tube and Ambi QD Plate
Introducing the Odin Works Zulu Adj Stock — a versatile and functional addition to your rifle build. Constructed from durable 6061 aluminum, this padded pistol buffer tube is designed to provide an ergonomic and ambidextrous solution.
With its adjustable length of pull feature and reversible QD adapter, this stock is perfect for rifle or carbine builds. Users have praised its exceptional fit and build quality while some have cited minor issues with the end plate attachment and stock tube length.
Overall, this Zulu stock is a great option for gun enthusiasts looking to customize and enhance their shooting experience.
Brownells Gun Bluing Kit — T-4 Creme for Superior Finish
The Brownells Dicropan T-4 Creme Gun Blue is a top-of-the-line product for gun bluing enthusiasts. Its unrivaled coloring ability for various steel types makes it perfect for spot touch-ups and enhancing the overall appearance of your gun. The creme formula ensures that the bluing remains where you apply it, leaving the surrounding area unaffected.
While it may be on the pricier side, the results are truly fantastic and worth the investment. Customers also mention that it works much better than other alternatives, like Birchwood Casey Super Blue.
However, it’s crucial to follow the instructions carefully and use the right techniques for the best outcome. Overall, this product is a favorite among many gun owners and highly recommended for those seeking a long-lasting, high-quality bluing solution.
Oxpho-blue Professional Gun Bluing Kit
Using Oxpho-Blue as my first experience with this type of product, I must say it absolutely blew me away! The ease of application along with the remarkably superior results left me thrilled. What stood out was the no-after-rust feature, making it hassle-free to use. I simply dampened a piece of cotton flannel and gave the area a good rubbing. The chemical effortlessly went through the oil on the gun, removing thin rust and leaving a beautiful blue finish beneath.
The final finish was far from perfect, as this product wasn’t intended to rival the beauty of a hot-blued gun. But with a careful hand, the results were more than satisfactory, and it turned out to be more durable and weather-resistant than any other finish I have come across. My only word of caution is to follow the product’s directions, as any contamination from skin contact might spoil the results. Overall, a fantastic experience, and I would highly recommend Oxpho-Blue for anyone looking to achieve a professional finish on their firearms.
Vew Fck Field Weapon Gun Bluing Kit
The Vulture Equipment Works Vew Fck Field Weapon is a comprehensive kit designed to keep your firearms in top shape. This versatile package comes with a variety of useful items, all neatly housed in a resealable mylar zipper pouch for easy storage.
The kit includes a 2oz twist cap bottle of liquid freakiness, an extreme environment lubricant and protectant that’s perfect for those tough weather conditions. There’s also a 4oz spray bottle of liquid Chimera cleaner/degreaser to remove dirt, grime, and grease build-up from your gun’s surface.
A collection of black swabs, a dual-ended gun brush, and a red microfiber cloth are also included, offering you a range of cleaning options. Plus, there’s a sticker and a DropOut card, adding a personal touch to your kit. But be aware, the packaging may be a bit of a tight squeeze for all these items.
While the Vew Fck Field Weapon might not be perfect, it certainly offers more than enough value to justify its price tag. Whether you’re a pro or a beginner, this kit provides everything you need for maintaining and preserving your firearms in pristine condition.
Black Oxide Gel Kit for Spot Blackening of Steel and Iron
I recently tried the Caswell Black Oxide Gel Kit, and I must say, it’s a game-changer for transforming the appearance of steel and iron surfaces without the need for strenuous effort. The gel formula makes it incredibly easy to apply to the desired area, allowing me to achieve a consistent and professional-looking finish.
One thing I particularly appreciated was the fact that the gel keeps the blackener in place, giving me ample time to perfect the application before rinsing it off with water. Additionally, sealing the treated surface with Caswell Sealer ensures a dry finish, adding a nice touch of authenticity to my projects.
While the Black Oxide Gel Kit might not be suitable for stainless steel surfaces, it’s an excellent option for those looking to add a touch of sophistication and uniqueness to their non-stainless steel objects. With a few applications and the right metal prep, you can achieve stunning results that are sure to turn heads.
Overall, the Caswell Black Oxide Gel Kit stands out for its simplicity and ease of use. If you’re in the market for a reliable gun bluing kit, this might just be the ideal solution for you.
Professional Deburring Tool for Steel, Aluminum, & More
The Noga NG8350 Deburring Tool is a versatile and handy device that has become a staple in my workshop. This deburring tool is perfect for smoothing out those pesky sharp edges on a variety of materials, from steel to brass and even plastic. It’s incredibly user-friendly, with its ergonomic NogaGrip 3 handle that provides a comfortable and firm grip.
One of my favorite features is the range of blades it comes with — including 5 pieces of S10 blades and 5 pieces of S20 blades. The blades are sharp and robust, and I’ve found that they hold up well even after multiple uses. The S holder helps keep the blades organized, making it easy to switch between different blade sizes.
While I’ve been really impressed with the Noga NG8350’s performance, there is one minor drawback. The tool can be quite bulky, which means it might not be the best option for those with limited workspace. However, given the wide range of materials it can work with and the sleek design of the tool itself, this minor inconvenience is easily outweighed by its benefits.
Overall, the Noga NG8350 Deburring Tool has become a valuable addition to my toolkit. Its versatility, comfort, and effectiveness make it a tool that I highly recommend to anyone looking for a high-quality deburring solution.
Nitrofire Breach Cleaning Kit for Firearms
The Traditions A1950 Nitrofire Breach Cleaning Kit is a handy and efficient tool for cleaning the breach of your Nitrofire gun. With its ease of use and high-quality components, it makes maintaining your gun a breeze. Although some users mentioned they wished for a case to protect the kit, overall the cleaning kit has a solid rating and is highly recommended for those with a Nitrofire in their arsenal.
Buyer’s Guide
Welcome to our comprehensive guide on gun bluing kits. In this section, we will provide you with essential information about the features, considerations, and advice to help you make an informed decision when purchasing a gun bluing kit.
Important Features to Consider
When searching for the best gun bluing kit, several features should be taken into account. These include the bluing solution, type of finish, ease of use, and safety precautions. Additionally, consider the availability of application tools and the compatibility with various gun types and materials. Look for a kit that offers a user-friendly experience, produces a consistent finish, and contains all the necessary components to avoid additional purchases.
Types of Finishes
Gun bluing kits offer different types of finishes to cater to different preferences. These include traditional blue, antique blue, and various shades of black. Traditional blue is a deep, dark navy color, while antique blue is a more faded and weathered finish. Black finishes can range from glossy to matte and are often preferred for a more modern look. It’s essential to research the finish options and choose one that best suits your gun’s style and desired appearance.
Safety Precautions
Working with gun bluing kits involves handling chemicals and using heat to achieve the desired finish. It’s crucial to read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and follow all safety precautions. Wear gloves, protective eyewear, and a mask to minimize exposure to chemicals. Work in a well-ventilated area and avoid inhaling fumes or touching the blued surface until it has cooled down completely. These measures will not only protect your health but also ensure a high-quality finish on your gun.
Expert Advice
When bluing a gun, patience is crucial. The process can take several hours, depending on the size of the gun and the desired finish. Make sure to apply even layers of the bluing solution, allowing each layer to dry before moving on to the next coat. It’s essential to use high-quality materials, as this will yield a more durable and visually appealing finish. Lastly, practice on a test piece or an older gun before attempting to bluing your prized firearm to ensure you’re familiar with the process and can achieve the desired results.
FAQ
What is gun bluing?
Gun bluing is a technique to give firearms their distinctive, almost black finish. It produces a hard-wearing surface that offers a matte, dark, and rich appearance, often preferred by gun enthusiasts and collectors. This technique, however, is not limited to firearms but is a wider artistic application for various metallic surfaces.
The primary methods of bluing include applying a chemical solution or heating in a neutral or reducing atmosphere. The process of gun bluing is not just for aesthetic purposes; it also provides some level of protection against rust and corrosion, especially in humid areas, making it a practical way to maintain and enhance the look of firearms.
What is a gun bluing kit?
A gun bluing kit is a collection of tools, chemicals, and equipment necessary to perform the process of gun bluing. It is designed to provide a user-friendly and safe way to bluing firearms at home. These kits typically include a range of chemicals, applicators, and protective gear, tailored to achieve the desired results with minimal risks or complications.
Gun bluing kits can vary in content, so it is essential to understand the components and their specific recommended applications before embarking on the bluing process. Manufacturers provide detailed instructions on how to use the kits, which can significantly improve the chances of obtaining a high-quality finish on your firearm.
Which bluing kits are suitable for beginners?
Numerous gun bluing kits are available in the market, catering to all skill levels, including beginners. Ideal starter kits usually have a user-friendly approach, with step-by-step instructions and minimal requirements for protective gear or equipment. They are often compact to accommodate limited workspace, and the chemicals used are typically more straightforward to handle.
Some of the well-known beginner-friendly gun bluing kits include those by Blue Blood, Hoppe’s №9, and We-Blu. All these kits provide basic tools and chemicals necessary for bluing without being overly complicated. However, it is always advisable to read reviews, compare specifications, and consult knowledgeable sources before purchasing a bluing kit to ensure the best value for your money and safety.
Is it possible to modify the color of gun bluing?
Yes, it is possible to modify the color of gun bluing to achieve various shades of dark blue or black. This can be done by adjusting the application method, the concentration of the bluing solution, or the length of time you leave it on the metal surface. Using a combination of different bluing chemicals can also result in more unique colors or finishes.
However, it is crucial to note that altering the process of gun bluing can significantly affect the overall finish and durability of the firearm’s surface. It is advised to practice on a spare part or an old firearm before attempting any modifications to ensure an optimal outcome. Additionally, test the chemicals on a small, inconspicuous area before proceeding with the entire project. Experiment cautiously and consult the kit’s instructions or an experienced professional before making any significant changes.
Are there any alternative techniques to achieve a gun bluing finish?
Yes, there are alternative methods to gun bluing, all of which aim to achieve a similar finish without the use of gun bluing kits or chemicals. Here are a few of these techniques:
- Cold blueing, also known as etching, employs a rotary tool to rub the metal surface, creating a texture that resembles blueing without harsh chemicals. 2) Stainless steel firearms can sometimes naturally rust to a dark blue color that mimics gun bluing. This can occur if the firearm is not frequently cleaned or stored in a humid environment. 3) Some gun owners apply a thin layer of black paint over their firearms, which can give the appearance of gun bluing. However, this method does not offer the same protection against rust or corrosion as actual bluing.
Each of these alternatives has its pros and cons, and the choice of technique depends on the desired outcome and the firearm’s material. It is worth mentioning that while these methods may save time and expense, the resulting finish might not be as consistent or durable as those achieved using proper gun bluing kits.
Can gun bluing kits be used on non-firearm materials?
Many gun bluing kits are specifically designed for firearms, leveraging their chemical composition, application method, and protective gear to work safely and effectively on the material. However, some general-purpose bluing products can be adapted for use with non-firearm metallic surfaces like knives, car parts, locks, and tool handles.
It is essential to remember that attempting to bluing non-firearm materials can present unexpected challenges or risks, especially if the material is not listed as compatible with gun bluing kits. Non-firearm materials may have different chemical tolerances or surface textures, which can affect the overall finish or durability. It is advised to seek guidance from the kit manufacturer or test the product on a small, inconspicuous section before applying it to any non-familiar materials.
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