finishing damascus barrels

Alex Johnson · March 17, 2002, 02:44 PM

Hi everybody. I'm reworking an old damascus barrel Ithaca and I'm going to attempt to rebrown the tubes. I'm familiar with the processes of rust blueing and browning; however, I'm unsure if the barrels need to be etched first with acid as is done with damascus blades. I've heard many times that the common browning and rust blueing solutions won't bring out the twist pattern properly, one fellow even suggested using Chlorox Bleach as a hot brown bring out the damascus pattern. A few of my gunsmith books illude to the acid etching process, but there were no clear details on the subject. Have any of you ever done this before?

Alex

March 17, 2002, 02:44 PM	#1
Alex Johnson Senior Member Join Date: February 16, 2000 Location: Grand Forks, ND Posts: 812	finishing damascus barrels Hi everybody. I'm reworking an old damascus barrel Ithaca and I'm going to attempt to rebrown the tubes. I'm familiar with the processes of rust blueing and browning; however, I'm unsure if the barrels need to be etched first with acid as is done with damascus blades. I've heard many times that the common browning and rust blueing solutions won't bring out the twist pattern properly, one fellow even suggested using Chlorox Bleach as a hot brown bring out the damascus pattern. A few of my gunsmith books illude to the acid etching process, but there were no clear details on the subject. Have any of you ever done this before? Alex __________________ I thoroughly disapprove of duels. I consider them unwise and I know they are dangerous. Also, sinful. If a man should challenge me, I would take him kindly and forgivingly by the hand and lead him to a quiet retired spot and kill him. - Mark Twain