First Impressions of Birchwood Casey Presto Mag Gun Blue
The Birchwood Casey Presto Mag Gun Blue promises to be a quick and easy solution for touching up or completely re-bluing firearms. At a price point of $9.99 for a 3 oz bottle, it presents an accessible entry point for firearm enthusiasts looking to restore the finish on their prized possessions. Does this little bottle live up to the hype of a deep blue luster, or is it just another snake oil remedy destined for the back of the gun cleaning cabinet?
My journey to the Presto Mag Gun Blue stemmed from a growing frustration with a prized lever-action rifle. Years of faithful service in the deer woods had taken their toll, leaving the bluing faded and worn in several key areas. I wanted a solution that wouldn’t require sending it off to a professional gunsmith but still provide a respectable and durable finish.
The unboxing experience was straightforward, if somewhat anticlimactic. A small, unassuming 3 oz bottle – I immediately appreciated its compact size for easy storage in my gun cleaning kit. The liquid inside had a distinct chemical odor, common in bluing agents, which immediately signaled a no-nonsense approach. Compared to cold blue pens or aerosol bluing products, the Birchwood Casey Presto Mag Gun Blue appeared to be a more potent, liquid-based solution.
When deciding which cold blue product to use, I looked at Brownells Oxpho-Blue and Super Blue. Both are reputable brands with similar applications. I ended up choosing Birchwood Casey Presto Mag Gun Blue due to its smaller volume that met my needs, lower price point, and readily available access.
Initial thoughts leaned towards cautious optimism. Could this budget-friendly option actually deliver a professional-looking blued finish? I was both excited and a little skeptical, ready to put it to the test and see if it could breathe new life into my beloved rifle.
Real-World Testing: Putting Birchwood Casey Presto Mag Gun Blue to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground for the Birchwood Casey Presto Mag Gun Blue was a controlled environment: my workshop. I carefully disassembled the lever-action rifle, focusing on the receiver where the bluing was most worn. After thoroughly degreasing and cleaning the metal surface with alcohol, I followed the instructions meticulously, applying the Presto Mag Gun Blue with a clean cotton swab.
The application was straightforward, though the chemical odor was noticeable, requiring adequate ventilation. I observed the bluing process unfolding before my eyes as the steel surface gradually darkened. The instructions suggest multiple applications for a deeper finish, so I applied three coats, lightly polishing with steel wool between each.
The results after the first use were encouraging, though not perfect. The worn areas of the receiver were noticeably darker and more uniform. There were some visible streaks and inconsistencies in the bluing, likely due to my inexperience with liquid bluing agents. Despite these minor imperfections, the initial outcome was a definite improvement.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use and handling, the blued areas on the receiver continued to hold up well. There was minimal wear or fading, suggesting that the Presto Mag Gun Blue provided a decent level of durability. Regular cleaning with gun oil helped maintain the finish and prevent rust.
Over time, I became more proficient in applying the Presto Mag Gun Blue. Experimenting with different application techniques (e.g., using a small brush instead of a cotton swab) led to more consistent results. The Birchwood Casey Presto Mag Gun Blue proved to be a reliable solution for touching up minor scratches and blemishes on other firearms, as well.
Compared to previous experiences with aerosol bluing products, the Birchwood Casey Presto Mag Gun Blue offers superior control and depth of color. While aerosol cans are convenient, they often lack the precision and intensity needed for a truly professional-looking finish. The Presto Mag Gun Blue, with its liquid formulation, allowed for more targeted application and buildable color intensity.
Breaking Down the Features of Birchwood Casey Presto Mag Gun Blue
Specifications
The Birchwood Casey Presto Mag Gun Blue is a cold blue formulation designed for use on most steel surfaces (excluding stainless steel). The product comes in a 3 oz bottle, making it suitable for both small touch-ups and complete re-bluing applications. It does not include any applicator or additional accessories. The manufacturer is Birchwood Casey.
These specifications are significant because they dictate the product’s suitability for different firearms and projects. The 3 oz volume is sufficient for multiple applications on several firearms, making it a cost-effective option for gun owners. The exclusion of stainless steel limits its versatility, so it is imperative to only use the product on appropriate materials.
Performance & Functionality
The Birchwood Casey Presto Mag Gun Blue is designed to provide a deep blue luster to steel firearms. In my experience, it delivers on this promise, although achieving a truly professional-looking finish requires patience and skill. The product darkens the steel effectively, creating a more uniform and aesthetically pleasing appearance.
Its strength lies in its ability to blend existing bluing and repair minor blemishes. The main weakness is its potential for streaking or inconsistent coloring if not applied carefully. It does meet expectations for a cold blue product, offering a noticeable improvement in appearance.
Design & Ergonomics
The bottle itself is functional and easy to handle, though the lack of an applicator can be seen as a drawback. The liquid is of a thin consistency, which allows for easy application but also requires caution to avoid drips and runs. The overall build quality is adequate for its intended purpose, which is a simple chemical treatment.
There is a learning curve associated with the Presto Mag Gun Blue. Achieving consistent results requires experimentation and practice. New users may experience streaking or uneven coloring until they refine their application technique.
Durability & Maintenance
The durability of the blued finish is acceptable for a cold blue product, although it is not as robust as a hot blued finish. Regular cleaning and oiling will extend the life of the bluing and prevent rust.
Maintenance is relatively easy, requiring only occasional touch-ups and routine cleaning. The Presto Mag Gun Blue does not require any specialized tools or equipment for application or maintenance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Birchwood Casey Presto Mag Gun Blue does not come with any accessories. Users will need to supply their own cotton swabs, brushes, steel wool, and degreasers.
The Presto Mag Gun Blue is compatible with other gun cleaning and maintenance products. It is also possible to customize the finish by varying the number of applications and the level of polishing.
Pros and Cons of Birchwood Casey Presto Mag Gun Blue
Pros
- Affordable price point: At around $10, it’s an accessible option for budget-conscious gun owners.
- Effective bluing: Provides a noticeable improvement in the appearance of firearms.
- Easy to apply: Straightforward application process, even for beginners.
- Small volume: Convenient 3 oz size is ideal for storage and small projects.
- Versatile: Suitable for both touch-ups and complete re-bluing (with patience).
Cons
- Requires skill for optimal results: Can result in streaking or inconsistent coloring if not applied carefully.
- No included applicator: Users must supply their own applicators.
Who Should Buy Birchwood Casey Presto Mag Gun Blue?
The Birchwood Casey Presto Mag Gun Blue is perfect for gun owners who want to improve the appearance of their firearms without spending a lot of money. It is particularly well-suited for those who enjoy DIY projects and are willing to invest time and effort in achieving a professional-looking finish. Those wanting to maintain the bluing on firearms, removing blemishes, light scratches, or signs of wear, will find this a worthwhile product.
This product may not be the best choice for individuals seeking a flawless, factory-grade finish. Also, for those who prefer a quick and effortless solution and are unwilling to invest the time and effort required for careful application, may find it frustrating.
Must-have accessories include degreaser, cotton swabs or brushes, fine steel wool, and gun oil.
Conclusion on Birchwood Casey Presto Mag Gun Blue
The Birchwood Casey Presto Mag Gun Blue is a capable and affordable cold blue solution that delivers on its promise of improving the appearance of firearms. While achieving a truly professional-looking finish requires patience and skill, the product offers a noticeable improvement over worn or faded bluing.
The $9.99 price point is certainly justified, making it an accessible option for budget-conscious gun owners. The volume is more than adequate to get the job done right.
I would personally recommend the Birchwood Casey Presto Mag Gun Blue to anyone looking for a cost-effective way to restore or maintain the blued finish on their firearms. Give it a try, follow the instructions carefully, and breathe new life into your beloved firearms!