Helix Gunsmithing offers hot-dip bluing only.  The purpose of this process is protective, decorative and restorative.  This consists of a multi-stage process wherein the piece is first de-rusted in either a solution of hot alkaline or an acid. Determination is made by the severity and depth of the oxidation.

This is followed by the mechanical removal of the etched surface by means of multiple-grit felt and cotton wheels.  Extreme care at this stage has to be given to any lettering or proof marks originally found on the piece.  A veteran polisher can work between the letters giving a quality overall effect.

Depending on the final grit used, this depicts the final finish, or luster.

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The bluing process consists of a five-stage system: a hot degreaser followed by a rinse, a mechanical scrubbing, then back to the degreaser, back to the rinse, then into molten salts.  These are classified as molten because the boiling point is 290 degrees.  After the appropriate amount of time, followed by a hot water rinse, the part is placed in a spray rinse and sprayed with vast amounts of water. It is then immediately quenched in a water-displacing oil.

At this point, the oxide film is very soft and has to be left untouched for approximately 24 hours.  Then the oxide surface is mildly polished. It is then possible to offer another service of a wax seal which gives an even higher luster.  The piece is then packaged and returned to the customer.  This finish also meets military specifications C13924BAM1 Class 1, Grade A.

A very high level of attention to precision and quality should be given to each piece for the best possible outcome.

The recent flooding has affected many of these very heirlooms. Bluing can restore these items to their original condition.

Helix Gunsmithing offers a service that will take the metal surface of a weapon to a higher level of beauty and durability.  This is a much desired finish.  Gun enthusiasts, owners of family heirlooms, and war re-enactment participants utilize this process to:

     -Restore a weapon to its original condition
     -Customize the weapon
     -Optimize a weapon for a specific function such as flat gloss for low reflectivity or high gloss          for a presentation piece
     -Polishing specific trigger parts enhancing the weapon's function, such as smooth trigger                pull, smoother cocking, burr-free, bolt placement
     -Provide the weapon with a long-term corrosion-resistant protective coating
 

With proper care and handling, this process need not ever be repeated, making this a valuable investment to a weapons owner.

 

Call us or fill out the contact form for more information.