Might try Rust Bluing. How do I boil big parts?

RHarris

New member
I'm considering attempting to use a rust bluing kit from Brownell's (Belgian blue or Pilikingtons). From what I have read, there is a step requiring the parts to be immersed in boiling water. That presents a little problem. What kind of container to I boil water in that will accomodate an entire rifle barrel? Is submersion in boiling water absolutely necessary to rust blue a firearm?
 
You can buy a tank from Brownells or make one/have one made locally. The tank has to be long enough to hold your longest part and the heat source should be able to bring the water to a boil. Boiling the parts is a necessary step as it turns the red oxide into black oxide. George
 
Just in case someone isn't thinking about this possibility, make sure to plug the barrel so as not to rust the bore.
 
I use a trick picked up from John Bivins, he coats the inside of the barrel with a varnish to protect the rifling from the water and the corrosive chemicals, it wipes out with solvent afterwards. I still use the wooden dowels (they give you something to hang onto), but I don't worry about the bore during the operation.
 
rust blueing tank

My old shop teacher did his own blueing. He made his own tank by welding two pieces of 3/16"x 6" flat stock into a "V" shape and welding flat covers over the ends. Took me about 1/2 hour to weld for him. Worked well.:)
 
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