Does your favorite firearm look dull and worn? Sunlight and handling can steal the deep, rich black finish from your metal. A beautiful gun deserves to look its best. Restoring that classic look yourself sounds great, but choosing the right gun bluing kit can feel overwhelming. You worry about harsh chemicals, uneven results, or perhaps damaging your prized possession.
Picking the perfect kit means understanding what works best for your specific needs. We know you want a safe, effective product that delivers a professional-looking finish without a trip to the gunsmith. This detailed guide cuts through the confusion. We break down the different types of kits available.
By the end of this post, you will know exactly which bluing kit matches your skill level and project goals. We will show you what features matter most for a successful home bluing job. Get ready to give your firearm a stunning, durable makeover!
Top Gun Bluing Kit Recommendations
- ALL-INCLUSIVE KIT - Easy to use, all-inclusive kits are the proven way to touch up or completely reblue most guns. Everything you need for a professional-looking, first-class job is included
- CLEANER DEGREASER - Specially formulated to remove dirt, fouling, grease and oil quickly and easily. Safe, easy and effective way to clean you gun thoroughly or use as a preparatory cleaning for blueing or browning
- PERMA BLUE LIQUID - Perma blue liquid gun blue provides great blueing to metal that has already been thoroughly cleaned and is free of rust. Fast-acting liquid gives a non-sticky, uniform blue-black finish
- BARRICADE WIPES - Convenient gun cloths leave a lasting, protective, anti-rust film on guns and other metal eguipment. Handy to use as a bore cleaner/protector when run through gun bore
- BLUE & RUST REMOVER - Blue & Rust remover is a safe, reliable solution that removes rust and old blue easily and quickly without damaging base metal. Safe for removing old finish from guns. Also great for removing rust from tools
- Deluxe Perma Blue& TruOil Complete Finish Kit
- Clam Pack
- All-In-One
![Birchwood Casey PERMA BLUE LIQUID Air Gun Shotgun Blueing 90ml [13125] Blue Rifle](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51mEFBn3CpL._SL160_.jpg)
- PROVEN WAY FOR TOUCHING UP - Birchwood Casey offers you the best ways to touch up scratches and worn spots or even completely reblue most guns. It will give a non-streaky, even blue-black finish to steel (except stainless)
- FAST-ACTING - Both perma blue liquid gun blue and paste provide great blueing to metal that has already been thoroughly cleaned and is free of rust. Perma blue paste gun blue is slower to darken than liquid gun blue, but will build up a denser finish
- HIGH-QUALITY - This top-grade product is expertly made in compliance with stringent industry standards to offer a fusion of a well-balanced design and high level of craftsmanship. Manufactured from industry-leading materials
- BEST SHOOTING GEAR - Since 1948, serious shooters, avid collectors and professional gunsmiths have relied on Birchwood Casey for shooting and gun care products; Birchwood Casey has pioneered innovative products with an unwavering dedication to quality
- NOTE - Birchwood Casey Perma Blue liquid gun blue will not blue stainless steel, aluminum or non-ferrous metals. Can be applied with swabs (Q-Tips). No heat is required. Excellent for touch up or complete regluing
- PROVEN WAY FOR TOUCHING UP - Birchwood Casey offers you the best ways to touch up scratches and worn spots or even completely reblue most guns. It will give a non-streaky, even blue-black finish to steel (except stainless)
- FAST-ACTING - Both perma blue liquid gun blue and paste provide great blueing to metal that has already been thoroughly cleaned and is free of rust. Perma blue paste gun blue is slower to darken than liquid gun blue, but will build up a denser finish
- HIGH-QUALITY - This top-grade product is expertly made in compliance with stringent industry standards to offer a fusion of a well-balanced design and high level of craftsmanship. Manufactured from industry-leading materials
- BEST SHOOTING GEAR - Since 1948, serious shooters, avid collectors and professional gunsmiths have relied on Birchwood Casey for shooting and gun care products; Birchwood Casey has pioneered innovative products with an unwavering dedication to quality
- NOTE - Birchwood Casey Perma Blue liquid gun blue will not blue stainless steel, aluminum or non-ferrous metals. Can be applied with swabs (Q-Tips). No heat is required. Excellent for touch up or complete regluing
- Super Blue. Super blue is a deep blueing for polished and hardened metals containing nickel and chrome alloys. (not for stainless steel) It is a double strength cold blue solution.
- Cleaner Degreaser - Specially formulated to remove dirt, debris, grease and oil quickly and easily. It’s a safe, easy and effective way to clean your firearm thoroughly or as a preparatory cleaner for blueing or browning.
- Blue and Rust Remover. Blue & Rust Remover is a safe, reliable solution that removes rust and old blue easily and quickly without damaging base metal. Safe for removing old finish from firearms, muzzleloaders and antiques. Also excellent for removing rust from tools, gauges and precision instruments. Blue and rust removal is a necessary step before reblueing or browning.
- Special Super Blue Kit - With this kit you also get swaubers, sandpaper, Barricade wipe, steel wool, a cloth and a sponge.
- Cold blue two part process bonds to and colors the metal
- Great for touch-ups or complete re-bluing
- Up to 3 complete re-blue’s or dozens of touch-ups
- Like factory blue and produces a beautiful, durable finish
- Everything you need including applicators, steel wool, scour pads and microfiber cloth
- Multifunction kit: 3.5 fl oz Oil and rust removal liquid, 3.5 fl oz Gun blue liquid, 3.5 fl oz Antioxidant lube, 1 pair of gloves, 2 brushes, Multifunction kits are the proven way to touch up or completely reblue most guns such as pistols handguns shooters etc. easy to use
- Cleaner degreaser & rust remover: Oil and rust removal liquid for guncleaning. Specially formulated to remove dirt, grease, oil and rust quickly and easily without damaging base metal, easy and effective way to clean you gun thoroughly or use as a preparatory cleaning for blueing, a safe and reliable solution for iron steel products
- Aesthetic effect: The oxide film formed by the GUN BLUE LIQUID is blue-black and has a beautiful luster. It protects the iron products from oxygen and moisture, making the surface less likely to rust, and adding to the grade and beauty of the iron products,It is suitable for cast iron, carbon steel,stainless steel below 304, manganese steel, silicon steel, that has already been thoroughly cleaned and is free of rust, not applicable to stainless steel above 304, copper and aluminum alloy
- Antioxidant lube liquid: High quality oil refined to perfection for use in firearms, fishing reels and other precision mechanisms. Does not harden, gum or become rancid, leave a lasting, protective, anti-rust film on guns and other metal equipment. Gives extra-long service
- After-sales service: We take pride in providing excellent customer service. If you encounter any issues or have questions about our Cold Blackening Liquid, please feel free to contact our dedicated team for prompt assistance
- QUICK, EASY AND EFFECTIVE - The fastest and easiest way to touch up wear spots, nicks and scratches is with a simple easy to use Presto Gun Blue Pen from Birchwood Casey. It dries fast in most conditions
- INSTANT PENETRATION - Birchwood Casey Presto Gun Blue Pen penetrates hard steel instantly and gives a durable blue black finish that will not rub off. This compact pen is a must-have for you gun maintenance kit
- NO SPILL, NO DRIP PEN - Use this Birchwood Casey Presto Gun Blue Pen like a marking pen for one coat coverage on non-stainless steels. Fine tip of this pen allows to work in the most hard to reach areas
- EVEN APPLICATION - Say goodbye to messy scratch repair kits that require paintbrushes. This easy to use Birchwood Casey Presto Gun Blue Pen is the smartest way to touch up wear spots with a minimum of fuss
- BEST SHOOTING GEAR - Since 1948, serious shooters, avid collectors and professional gunsmiths have relied on Birchwood Casey for shooting and gun care products; Birchwood Casey has pioneered innovative products with an unwavering dedication to quality
Your Guide to Choosing the Best Gun Bluing Kit
Gun bluing is a chemical process. It changes the metal’s surface color. This process adds a protective layer. It stops rust from forming. A good bluing kit helps you restore old firearms or touch up scratches. Choosing the right kit matters for a great finish.
Key Features to Look For
1. Type of Bluing Agent
There are two main types of bluing agents. Cold bluing is easier for small touch-ups. Hot bluing gives a deeper, more professional finish. Hot bluing kits require heating the solution. Cold bluing kits work at room temperature.
2. Included Accessories
A complete kit should have everything you need. Look for applicator swabs or pads. Gloves are essential for safety. Degreaser or cleaner is also important. Some kits include a sealant or protective oil.
3. Metal Compatibility
Check if the kit works on your specific metal. Most kits work well on carbon steel. Some specialized kits are needed for stainless steel. Make sure the product matches your gun’s material.
Important Materials in Your Kit
The bluing solution itself is the most important material. This solution usually contains selenium dioxide or ferric nitrate. These chemicals react with the steel. The quality of these chemicals affects the final color.
Other necessary materials include:
- **Degreaser:** You must remove all oil and grease from the metal. Clean metal accepts the bluing solution better.
- **Neutralizer:** After bluing, you stop the chemical reaction. A water rinse or mild baking soda solution often works as a neutralizer.
- **Finishing Oil:** Apply a good protective oil after bluing. This seals the finish and prevents immediate rusting.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Surface preparation greatly affects the outcome. **Good preparation improves quality.** Thoroughly cleaning and polishing the metal makes the bluing look even and dark. Remove all scratches down to bare, clean metal first.
**Poor preparation reduces quality.** If you skip degreasing, the bluing will look splotchy or patchy. Applying the solution unevenly causes streaks. Letting the solution sit too long can sometimes cause pitting, especially with cold bluing.
For hot bluing, **temperature control is key.** Consistent, correct temperature ensures a uniform, deep black finish. Inconsistent heat leads to uneven coloring.
User Experience and Use Cases
Cold bluing kits offer a simple user experience. Hobbyists often use them for quick fixes on a worn gun barrel or trigger guard. You wipe it on, wait a short time, and rinse. It’s fast and requires minimal equipment.
Hot bluing kits offer a more involved, professional experience. Gunsmiths often prefer this method. It requires a dedicated heating setup, often involving propane burners and controlled tanks. This method gives the most durable and attractive finish, often resembling factory bluing.
Always practice safety. Wear gloves and eye protection. Work in a well-ventilated area. Read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully before starting any project.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Gun Bluing Kits
Q: What is the main difference between hot and cold bluing?
A: Hot bluing uses heated chemical baths for a deep, durable finish. Cold bluing uses room-temperature chemicals applied directly to the surface for quick touch-ups.
Q: Can I use a bluing kit on stainless steel?
A: Generally, no. Most standard bluing kits are for carbon steel. You need a specialized bluing product designed specifically for stainless steel, as it reacts differently.
Q: How long does the bluing finish last?
A: A properly applied hot bluing finish lasts a very long time, similar to factory finishes. A cold bluing touch-up lasts well, but it always needs a protective coat of oil applied regularly.
Q: What happens if I leave the bluing solution on too long?
A: Leaving the solution on too long can cause the finish to turn unevenly dark or even pit the metal surface slightly. Always follow the recommended application time.
Q: Do I need to remove all old finish before using the kit?
A: Yes, absolutely. You must strip the metal completely down to bare steel. Any leftover oil, grease, or old finish will prevent the new bluing from adhering correctly.
Q: Are gun bluing kits safe to use indoors?
A: Cold bluing kits are usually okay indoors if you have good ventilation. Hot bluing kits produce fumes that require excellent ventilation or outdoor use due to the heating process.
Q: What is the first step before applying any bluing chemical?
A: The first crucial step is thorough degreasing. Use a strong solvent or dedicated degreaser to remove all oils, fingerprints, and polishing compounds from the metal.
Q: Does bluing change the size of my gun parts?
A: No. Bluing is a surface conversion process. It does not remove or add significant material, so it will not affect the tight tolerances of moving parts.
Q: What should I use to apply the cold bluing solution?
A: Use clean cotton swabs, felt pads, or specialized applicator sponges. Do not use your bare hands to apply the chemical.
Q: Can I polish the metal after bluing?
A: You should only polish the metal *before* bluing. After the finish is set and neutralized, you should only apply a protective oil or wax; polishing will remove the new finish.