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Powderman · June 2, 2011, 06:17 AM

It IS possible to do a bluing job yourself--even hot tank bluing--but there are some things you must be aware of:

1. The equipment to do it properly is expensive. Brownell's does sell a complete bluing outfit--but the beginning equipment will set you back at least $900 or more.

2. In a bluing job, metal prep and proper flaw removal is EVERYTHING. You'll need more tools for that, so bargain in another $600 or so--at the very least.

3. You will find it VERY difficult--if not impossible--to duplicate Royal Blue. The original Royal Blue was known as carbonia bluing, and I believe it involves the use of arsenic.

June 2, 2011, 06:17 AM	#3
Powderman Senior Member Join Date: September 7, 2001 Location: Washington State Posts: 2,166	It IS possible to do a bluing job yourself--even hot tank bluing--but there are some things you must be aware of: 1. The equipment to do it properly is expensive. Brownell's does sell a complete bluing outfit--but the beginning equipment will set you back at least $900 or more. 2. In a bluing job, metal prep and proper flaw removal is EVERYTHING. You'll need more tools for that, so bargain in another $600 or so--at the very least. 3. You will find it VERY difficult--if not impossible--to duplicate Royal Blue. The original Royal Blue was known as carbonia bluing, and I believe it involves the use of arsenic. __________________ Hiding in plain sight...