Tape affecting finish on guns

[holdencm9]

Hey all,

So I ordered a pistol rack for the safe, to more effectively organize them all. The one I ordered is just bare steel...I thought it was going to be like the ones I have seen at the store that have sort of rubberized dishwasher coating.

I am not too worried, but figure for good measure to avoid any scratches could wrap the steel with some tape, I just don't want to use anything that will suck up the oil or tarnish any finishes on the guns. My first instinct was good ol' duct tape but what do ya'll think?

 

[Certaindeaf]

I'd use some Plasti-Dip. you can get it at any home improvement store etc. The glue on the tape will get gummy with age and for sure with oils and solvents.

 

[rcmodel]

I would not use tape for the reasons mentioned by Certaindeaf.

Plastic tubing might be good slipped over the contact points.
Also consider heat-shrink tubing.

rc

 

[BCRider]

Gun oils and tape glue are not a good combo as mentioned.

Go with the Plasti-Dip brushed on over freshly coarse sanded then cleaned and degreased metal.

As I recall there's information on the container for the Plasti-Dip on what to use for thinning it as it dries out in the container. A little of that thinner in the new stuff will make it suitable for brushing it on. You still want it thick to build a nice layer but thin enough that it flows on and settles out nicely before drying. A little experimenting on some scrap will soon get it right.

Another option would be to buy some spiral wrap plastic that can be found at electronics stores and wrap that around the rod. No glue or anything needed. If you can't find it locally then you can get it online from Digi-Key. It looks like the picture below. The size given is the minimum it rolls down to. You want to buy a size which is smaller than the wire you're covering.

 

[9mmepiphany]

Another vote for Plasti-Dip...easy and fast

 

[Drail]

Plasti dip will wear off pretty quick. I use it for some things but it is not very durable and when it comes in contact with some oils and solvents it falls apart. I would go to the hardware store and buy enough rubber tubing to slip over the pegs (snugly). It will be faster and easier than Plasti dip. I have done this and the tubing holds up forever and stays in place. Fuel line is also a good choice.

 

[splattergun]

heat shrink tubing available at Radio shack, Home Depot etc etc.
If you work on electronics you might already have some.

 

[holdencm9]

Hey guys, thanks for the idea for Plasti-Dip! I will take a look for it at the store. Has anyone used the spray?

The rack is this one

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004YF7B04/ref=oh_details_o00_s00_i00

I have used heat shrink tubing before, but I don't know if this application could work as I would not be able to sleeve it on unless I busted it apart and re-welded it back together.

 

[xjsnake]

Never used the spray but I've used dozens of the cans of the plastidip. I LOVE that stuff.

 

[BCRider]

The lack of ability to slip the tubing over the wire is why I suggested the spiral wrap. It opens up and winds around the core wire easily and can even jump over the joints and carry on. And once on it can't slip off like lengthwise slit fuel tube might do.

I've never known Plasti-Dip to melt from common oils. But perhaps if the rack is put into use too quickly the still slightly un-dryness of the fresh coating could be affected. If you go with the brushed on Dip or use the spray option be sure to give it at least a week to fully dry before you start using the rack.

Paints are often like this as well. Sure, they are dry to the touch in an hour or two and the can says "24 hours to dry". But the reality is that many such paints remain soft for up to a week or even more before they are FULLY dry and achieve their final hardness and bond. So be patient if you use the spray or brush on Dip plastic.

 

[WNC Seabee]

I've used the Plasti-Dip spray and it works really well.