[Norton]

As I was looking at the SKSs that had actually been cleaned prior to sale at the show today, I realized how thin/transparent it appears the blueing has become on my new SKS.

It may a result of the brake cleaner that I used to clean out the copious amounts of cosmoline, or it may just be that it was not particularly well blued to start with.

I could use some advice on how to go about blueing the rifle....something I've never attempted.

Does the off the shelf stuff work? Can I do it myself? Do I need a gunsmith? Help!

[keederdag]

Personally, I would not attempt to blue it. If you just have to, try Brownells Oxfo-Blue; I think it's about the best. But what about a baked on finish? They look great, are very durable, and easy to do. You can order several from Brownells; or just use high-temp engine enamel. You must fully disasemble the rifle, clean the bareled receiver with alchol/evaporative degreser, let fully dry. Then spray several even coats of finish on, while letting them dry in betwene coats. Be careful here NO RUNS ALLOWED. Let the painted parts dry for a full 24hrs, then bake them in an oven at 350 for 1/2hour to 45 min. Be sure that no visable (when assembled) surfaces are touching the oven. Open lot's of windows/ have plenty of ventalation/ do not leave unattended. Also do it while wifey's NOT home. This should not harm your oven, but I garontee she will NOT BE HAPPY. Burn several of her happy smellin candles while your baking, and run fan's.

PS I deny everything.:D

[Norton]

So..other than appearance, is there any real benefit to a pristine blued finish? I keep the exterior wiped down with CLP and the safe has a box of dessicant.

[keederdag]

As long as you keep a gun oiled, and free of skin oils, or other acidic contaminates, it could remain "in the white" without any seriouse problem's. Many turn of the century revolvers, were not blued, and are still in great shape today. If you don't mind the way it look's, and take care of it properly it will be fine.:)