Black Stainless

[Texastbird]

I was looking at the Ruger SR9, and they have one with a black slide that is stainless steel. Does anyone know what kind of coating this is? I have a Stainless pistol that I was toying with the idea of getting it coated or painted black and was looking for some ideas on the best way to proceed.
Tim

 

[NCHornet]

S&W made a few revs in Black Stainless and one day I am going to have one. I know there's is not a coating it is actually the color of the steel itself. Not sure if Ruger is the same way, but I bet it is. I have been told it is just as durable as reg SS. A email to Ruger should clear it up.
NCH

 

[KBGunsmith]

it is possible to blue stainless, just not with normal blueing salts, the process is complicated and includes several additional chemicals

 

[Texastbird]

So I guess this is nothing I can do with my home chemistry set, ha, ha. Its just that I bought a used Colt Double Eagle some years back and it it looks like it spent a long time under the seat of of truck or something. There are many small scratches on the slide, and I am trying to figure out how to cosmetically make it look as good as it shoots.

 

[strat81]

There are many small scratches on the slide, and I am trying to figure out how to cosmetically make it look as good as it shoots.

Have you tried a quality metal polish and some elbow grease? I wouldn't trust myself with any motorized polisher... the heat can change the temper of the metal (unlikely, but possible if you bungle the job).