The truth about do it yourself gun finishes!

[JohnKSa]

What is the truth?

I've heard good things about GunKote but what about this STUFF?

And I'm sure there are other alternatives out there. I've heard of folks using barbecue grill paint and muffler spray paint as well with good results.

So, are these finishes really GOOD. Or are they just the best you can do in your backyard?

In terms of durability, is it possible to match a good anodizing job? A custom finish like Roguard? A commercial teflon finish?

In terms of corrosion resistance are we talking as good as parkerizing? As good as melonite? As good as cold bluing? Hot bluing?

Sorry for those tuning in for lots of answers--I don't have 'em. Somebody out there want to enlighten us?

 

[HSMITH]

The top line bake on home finishing products are very good, on par with commercial bake on finishes. Are they as good as hard anodizing? No, it is very hard paint/poly/teflon rather than a metal treatment. Think of it in durability terms as being about like powdercoat on car or motorcycle parts.

Corrosion resistance is where the paint on finishes really shine. You can make one complete seamless coat that is impermeable to moisture and most chemicals. Provided the finish stays intact the paint finish is the most corrosion resistant you can get, better than even hard chrome or nickel.

Paint on finish over park is the best way to use it IMO. The park lays down a good finish and provides the paint a great surface to 'bite' and hold on.

I prefer hard chrome, it is super tough, essentially stops wear in the gun and very very corrosion resistant. I think it is a great balance of protection for guns.

 

[smince]

John,

I've done a pair of Springfield 1911's that get regular carry with both. The Gunkote, though a little more trouble, is MUCH more durable than the teflon/moll stuff. My Gunkote SA is going on seven years now. It doesn't get carried as much, as it is the frame for my CCU now.

I've been considering looking into the Dura-coat finishes from Lauer. Any info on these?