The Importance of Bluing: Protecting and Beautifying Firearms
Firearms maintenance and restoration can be a fulfilling endeavor, allowing gun enthusiasts to preserve the functionality and aesthetics of their prized possessions. Among the many aspects of firearm care, bluing stands out as a crucial element, safeguarding against corrosion and enhancing the overall appearance of metal components. When it comes to cold bluing, two names frequently surface: Super Blue and Perma Blue. Both offer accessible solutions for achieving a blued finish, but they differ in their characteristics, making it important for gun owners to understand their nuances before committing to a specific product. This comprehensive guide delves deep into Super Blue versus Perma Blue, providing a detailed comparison to help you make an informed decision for your firearm bluing needs.
Before exploring the specifics of Super Blue and Perma Blue, it’s essential to grasp the significance of bluing itself. Bluing is a chemical process that induces a controlled oxidation on the surface of steel firearms parts. This oxidation layer, primarily iron oxide, acts as a protective barrier, preventing rust and corrosion, which can severely damage the metal and compromise the gun’s integrity. Beyond its practical function, bluing also significantly impacts the visual appeal of a firearm. A well-executed blued finish can lend a deep, lustrous sheen, enhancing the gun’s value and elegance. Bluing creates a beautiful and durable finish, essential for any firearm owner.
Bluing Methods: A Quick Overview
Bluing firearms involves various methods, each with its distinct characteristics. Hot bluing, the traditional method, involves immersing the metal parts in a heated chemical solution. This process produces a durable, rust-resistant finish, generally considered the most robust. However, hot bluing often requires specialized equipment and expertise. In contrast, cold bluing methods like Super Blue and Perma Blue offer a more accessible approach, making them popular choices for DIY gunsmiths and those seeking convenient solutions. Other specialized finishes, like Cerakote, offer alternative protective coatings, but they are generally not considered bluing methods.
Super Blue: Unveiling the Characteristics
Super Blue, a widely accessible cold bluing solution, is known for its ease of use and cost-effectiveness. It’s readily available at many gun shops and online retailers. Its composition typically involves a blend of chemicals designed to create a controlled oxidation on the steel surface.
The Process of Super Blue: A Simple Approach
The Super Blue application process is relatively straightforward, making it an attractive option for beginners and those seeking quick results. The process generally involves these steps:
- **Preparation is key:** The steel component must be thoroughly cleaned to remove all traces of oil, grease, and any other contaminants. A degreaser specifically designed for firearms is recommended. Any rust or existing finish should be removed before applying Super Blue. A clean surface is crucial for optimal bluing.
- **Applying the solution:** Super Blue is typically applied using a cotton swab, a soft cloth, or a specialized applicator. The solution should be applied evenly to the prepared metal surface, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
- **Waiting and reactivating:** Allow the Super Blue to sit on the metal surface for a brief period, typically a minute or less, as directed by the product. Then, some applications will have you neutralize with a dedicated product.
- **Rinsing and neutralizing:** The metal is rinsed, often with clean water, to remove any remaining solution.
- **Oiling:** Once dry, the metal is generously coated with a protective oil, such as gun oil, to further safeguard against corrosion and complete the bluing process.
Advantages of Super Blue: Ease and Affordability
Super Blue boasts several advantages that make it a popular choice:
- **User-Friendly:** Super Blue is exceptionally easy to use, requiring minimal equipment and expertise. Its straightforward application process is ideal for DIY projects and touch-ups.
- **Quick Results:** Super Blue often produces visible results within minutes, making it a fast and convenient option for those who need immediate bluing.
- **Budget-Friendly:** Super Blue is typically an affordable option, making it a cost-effective solution for bluing small parts or firearms.
- **Touch-Up Ready:** Super Blue is ideal for small touch-ups and cosmetic fixes, providing a quick remedy for minor blemishes and scratches.
Disadvantages of Super Blue: Considering the Limitations
Despite its advantages, Super Blue has certain limitations to consider:
- **Durability Concerns:** The blued finish produced by Super Blue is generally less durable than other bluing methods, such as hot bluing or Perma Blue. The finish can be more susceptible to wear, abrasion, and environmental factors.
- **Aesthetic Variations:** The final appearance of a Super Blue finish can vary, depending on the preparation and application techniques. Inconsistent application can lead to uneven coloring.
- **Susceptibility to Rust:** Without proper maintenance, Super Blue finishes can be vulnerable to rust formation, requiring diligent aftercare and lubrication.
Best Applications for Super Blue: When to Choose It
Super Blue is best suited for:
- Small touch-up jobs, such as touching up minor scratches.
- Firearms that are not subject to heavy use or environmental exposure.
- Beginners who are new to firearm bluing and want to start with an easy-to-use product.
- Those looking for a quick and inexpensive solution.
Perma Blue: Examining the Details
Perma Blue, another popular cold bluing solution, is known for producing a more durable finish than some other cold bluing products. Like Super Blue, Perma Blue is readily available and accessible to gun owners.
The Process of Perma Blue: A More Involved Approach
The application process for Perma Blue is similar to Super Blue, but it often involves more preparation and slightly different steps. Here’s a breakdown:
- **Meticulous Cleaning and Degreasing:** Thorough cleaning and degreasing are crucial. The metal surface must be meticulously cleaned to remove all traces of oil, grease, and rust. A degreaser is crucial.
- **Preparing the Metal:** The metal is often prepared by lightly abrading the surface with fine-grit sandpaper or steel wool. This creates a textured surface that enhances the bluing solution’s adhesion.
- **Applying Perma Blue:** Perma Blue is applied using a clean cotton swab or cloth, covering the metal surface evenly. The product should be applied following the manufacturer’s guidelines.
- **Rinse and Neutralize:** After the application, the metal is typically rinsed with water.
- **Lubrication for Protection:** After the rinsing and drying is complete, the blued surface needs to be generously lubricated with gun oil.
Advantages of Perma Blue: Achieving a Better Finish
Perma Blue offers several advantages:
- **Improved Durability:** Perma Blue typically creates a more durable finish than Super Blue, providing greater resistance to wear and tear.
- **Enhanced Appearance:** Perma Blue often produces a richer, deeper, and more uniform finish compared to some other cold bluing solutions, resulting in a more visually appealing appearance.
- **Ease of Use, Relatively:** Perma Blue is generally easy to apply, making it accessible to DIY gunsmiths.
Disadvantages of Perma Blue: Considering Potential Drawbacks
While Perma Blue offers benefits, it also has some potential drawbacks:
- **Preparation Requirements:** Compared to Super Blue, Perma Blue may require more preparation work, including more extensive cleaning and surface preparation.
- **Not as Durable as Hot Bluing:** Perma Blue’s finish is still less robust than hot bluing, which can last much longer and withstand tougher conditions.
Best Applications for Perma Blue: Ideal Scenarios
Perma Blue is a great choice for:
- Firearms that require a more durable finish than Super Blue can provide.
- Projects where a more visually appealing blued finish is desired.
- Those seeking a balance between ease of use and performance.
Super Blue vs. Perma Blue: A Detailed Comparison
When deciding between Super Blue and Perma Blue, considering various factors is essential.
Durability Evaluation
Perma Blue generally offers a more durable finish compared to Super Blue. The Perma Blue finish typically resists wear and abrasion better, making it a more suitable choice for firearms exposed to frequent handling or moderate use. Super Blue, on the other hand, is more prone to fading or wearing off over time.
Appearance Assessment
The visual appeal also differs. Perma Blue tends to produce a richer, deeper, and more uniform finish. Super Blue’s finish might appear less consistent and can sometimes exhibit streaks or uneven coloring if not applied carefully. The final aesthetic outcome hinges on the preparation and application techniques used for each product.
Ease of Application Comparison
Super Blue is typically the easier of the two to apply. Its application process is straightforward, requiring minimal preparation. Perma Blue, while still user-friendly, often needs more meticulous cleaning and surface preparation, such as light abrasion with fine-grit sandpaper or steel wool, before application.
Cost Considerations
Both Super Blue and Perma Blue are cost-effective solutions for bluing firearms. Their affordability makes them appealing choices for DIY projects. However, the overall cost may vary depending on additional supplies.
Ideal Uses: Matching Products to Projects
Super Blue excels for quick touch-ups, minor cosmetic corrections, and for firearms that don’t endure heavy use. Perma Blue suits those who want a more durable and visually appealing finish and for firearms used more frequently.
Maintenance: Preserving the Finish
Regardless of the chosen product, proper maintenance is essential to preserve the finish. Always wipe down the firearm with a protective gun oil after handling or cleaning. Store firearms in a low-humidity environment to prevent rust.
Application: Brief Steps (Optional)
Super Blue Application at a Glance: Clean the metal, apply the solution, wait a short time, neutralize and rinse, then oil.
Perma Blue Application at a Glance: Thoroughly degrease and prepare the metal, apply the solution as directed, rinse and dry, then apply protective gun oil.
Safety: Essential Precautions
When using bluing solutions, prioritize safety:
- Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment, including gloves and eye protection, to shield yourself from chemicals.
- Work in a well-ventilated area to prevent exposure to fumes.
- Carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Dispose of used materials properly.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between Super Blue and Perma Blue hinges on specific needs and priorities. Super Blue offers ease of use and quick results, making it a good choice for touch-ups. Perma Blue provides a more durable and aesthetically pleasing finish. Understanding the nuances of each product empowers you to make the best decision for your firearm project.
Next Steps
Research specific product reviews, consider the application process, and choose the bluing method that aligns with your requirements.
This guide explores the Super Blue vs. Perma Blue question in detail. By understanding the differences between these two popular options, gun owners and enthusiasts can now make more informed decisions about firearm bluing.
