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hot black oxide

Posted: Wed Jun 01, 2011 8:51 pm
by Rbadbadger
I'm curious..can hot black oxide be used the same way as "hot blueing"? For barrels and such? Just wondering if its completely different or what. Thanks

- Ray[/i]

Posted: Thu Jun 02, 2011 7:25 am
by SR9
Short answer is yes. The process produces fumes and uses a number of chemicals.

http://www.finishing.com/faqs/blackoxide.html

I have not used the hot process but re-finished a rifle using the cold process. Pictures are here :

http://www.ctshooting.com/modules.php?n ... pic&t=2478

It looked great when it was done a seemed durable enough but over time it went from a very dark grey(almost black) to a light grey. Every time I wipe it down I get some iron oxide on the rag. Not really an issue but not clean like other coatings.

One thing I learned is that the metal MUST be cleaner than you think. Stripping followed by glass beading with soap and water clean up is not enough. I ended up using a chemical metal prep and then had success with the black oxide.

I think if I do it again I would try the Duracoat process. In fact, if you are not wild about doing it yourself, Mike-Sid does that type of coating.

Bottom line is hot processes involve hazardous materials, require the correct equipment and need to be done very carefully to come out right.

Posted: Thu Jun 02, 2011 8:49 am
by Rbadbadger
Well the reason I ask, is that the shop I work in, has a black oxide line, they have the heavy chemical degreasers, wash tanks, hot black oxide tank, the works. I wanted to know if I could throw the barrel of my Glock in there, Previous owner didn't take very good care of it AT ALL. Stupid of me for buying it. But I guess that's what I'm gonna be doing tonight! lol thanks SR9

Posted: Thu Jun 02, 2011 9:43 am
by hayes1966
Try with a piece of steel first and use regular gun cleaning solvents to see how effective it is.

Posted: Thu Jun 02, 2011 10:16 am
by SR9
Rbadbadger wrote:Well the reason I ask, is that the shop I work in, has a black oxide line, they have the heavy chemical degreasers, wash tanks, hot black oxide tank, the works. I wanted to know if I could throw the barrel of my Glock in there, Previous owner didn't take very good care of it AT ALL. Stupid of me for buying it. But I guess that's what I'm gonna be doing tonight! lol thanks SR9
Sounds like you are well equipped. Generally, it is a good idea to plug the ends of the barrel to keep any caustic cleaners and the oxide out. Go for it.

Posted: Fri Jun 03, 2011 12:14 am
by Rbadbadger
Well, I did my Glock Barrel tonight, and WOW did it come out nice, after I put it back together and oiled it up it looks brand new. I wish I took a before and after picture...But I don't think that far ahead!!

Next...To black oxide my bent mosin bolt!!!! haha

Posted: Fri Jun 03, 2011 7:07 am
by SR9
Glad to it came out good. Take a picture and post it some time. have fun.