The UK's Finest Independent Forum for Shooters and Gun Owners. Est 2010.

I have a couple of parts that need Rust Bluing and as they are for me I am inclined to do the work myself so does anyone have any hints or tips?

Look up Ed Blackely's web site to order the compound. or you can get it from Dysons. Boil the parts to get them really clean and coat with the solution. I have only done barrels: I suspend them over an old plastic tray with water in it and cover with a polythene sheet.
After a day or so---don't let the parts rust for too long---use fine steel wool to remove all loose rust and then boil them up. In the case of barrels, I have two kettles on the go and pour the hot water on until the rust turns blue / black. Repeat the process until satisfied with the depth of blue. I like it for antique guns, because you can obtain an authentic looking faded blue finish which is also durable.
For small parts, I just heat them until royal blue in colour and then quench. Some expertise is required to gauge the exact moment to quench---too long and the blue will turn grey.
Fred

Thanks Fred, I like the idea of using two kettles as it removes the need for really large pots or trays to boil parts in.