First Thoughts on the Birchwood Casey 13701 Perma Blue Gun Kit Paste
The Birchwood Casey 13701 Perma Blue Gun Kit Paste promises a simple, all-in-one solution for touching up or completely re-blueing firearms. This kit boasts everything needed for a professional-looking finish, enticing both seasoned gun owners and beginners alike with its promise of ease and affordability. For someone who appreciates firearm maintenance and restoration, the concept of reviving a worn finish at home is incredibly appealing.
My personal interest in the Birchwood Casey 13701 Perma Blue Gun Kit Paste stemmed from the need to restore an old hunting rifle. Years of exposure to the elements had taken their toll, leaving the bluing faded and marred with rust spots. Rather than paying a gunsmith a hefty fee, I sought a DIY solution that would allow me to revive the rifle’s finish myself.
Upon unboxing the kit, I was pleased with the completeness of the package. The paste consistency seemed manageable, and the included applicators appeared suitable for detailed work. The overall impression was positive, suggesting a user-friendly experience, although the true test would be in the application.
Compared to other bluing solutions I’ve considered, such as cold bluing pens or professional hot bluing services, the Birchwood Casey 13701 Perma Blue Gun Kit Paste struck a balance between cost-effectiveness and potential quality. Cold bluing pens seemed too limited for larger areas, while hot bluing was impractical without specialized equipment. This kit appeared to offer a convenient compromise. My initial excitement was tempered by a slight apprehension, wondering if the results would truly live up to the “professional-looking” claim.
Real-World Testing: Putting Birchwood Casey 13701 Perma Blue Gun Kit Paste to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Birchwood Casey 13701 Perma Blue Gun Kit Paste took place in my well-ventilated workshop. I applied it to the receiver of the aforementioned hunting rifle after thorough cleaning and degreasing. The paste was easy to apply with the included applicator, providing a surprisingly even coat.
The initial bluing process was performed indoors under controlled conditions. Despite following the instructions meticulously, I noticed slight streaking in the finish. Extra polishing was required to minimize this effect and achieve a uniform color.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks, the bluing created using the Birchwood Casey 13701 Perma Blue Gun Kit Paste has held up surprisingly well. The finish has maintained its color and depth despite regular handling and cleaning. No signs of premature wear or rust have appeared.
Regular cleaning and oiling are essential to maintaining the blued surface. Occasional application of a quality gun oil helps prevent corrosion and keeps the finish looking its best. Based on my experience, the kit does a respectable job when used correctly, rivaling the appearance of some factory bluing jobs.
Breaking Down the Features of Birchwood Casey 13701 Perma Blue Gun Kit Paste
Specifications
The Birchwood Casey 13701 Perma Blue Gun Kit Paste is a complete kit designed for cold bluing firearms. The kit includes Perma Blue Paste Gun Blue, cleaner-degreaser, applicators, steel wool, and polishing cloth. It’s a comprehensive set providing everything needed for a basic bluing job.
The “Quantity” listed is 1, indicating a single kit containing all the components. This all-inclusive approach simplifies the bluing process for beginners and experienced gunsmiths alike. The user doesn’t have to source individual components from different suppliers.
Performance & Functionality
The Birchwood Casey 13701 Perma Blue Gun Kit Paste is designed to effectively touch up or completely reblue most guns. The paste formula allows for a deep, dense blue finish that improves the firearm’s appearance and protects against rust. The kit significantly improves the look and resilience of a firearm’s metal surfaces.
The kit’s effectiveness depends heavily on proper preparation of the metal surface. Thorough cleaning and degreasing are crucial for optimal bluing adhesion and a uniform finish. While the included cleaner-degreaser is adequate, some users may prefer a more aggressive solvent for heavily soiled firearms.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Birchwood Casey 13701 Perma Blue Gun Kit Paste is straightforward and user-friendly. The paste consistency is easy to work with, allowing for precise application to specific areas. This precise application minimizes the risk of bluing unintended parts.
The kit’s ergonomic design minimizes the learning curve, especially for those new to gunsmithing. Clear instructions and readily available online resources help users achieve satisfactory results. However, some users may find the provided applicators less than ideal for intricate work and choose to use their own tools.
Durability & Maintenance
The durability of the blued finish achieved with the Birchwood Casey 13701 Perma Blue Gun Kit Paste is respectable for a cold bluing solution. With proper care and maintenance, the finish can last for years. Proper maintenance involves regular cleaning and oiling.
Maintenance is essential to preserving the blued finish. Regular application of a quality gun oil helps prevent corrosion and maintains the depth of the blue. Minor scratches or imperfections can usually be touched up using the kit, extending the lifespan of the bluing.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Birchwood Casey 13701 Perma Blue Gun Kit Paste comes with essential accessories to complete the bluing process. These include applicators, steel wool, and a polishing cloth. These accessories are tailored to the specific needs of bluing.
The kit itself doesn’t offer direct customization options beyond the bluing process. However, the blued finish serves as a foundation for further customization, such as adding aftermarket grips or applying protective coatings. The compatibility of the blued surface with other gun-related accessories is generally excellent.
Pros and Cons of Birchwood Casey 13701 Perma Blue Gun Kit Paste
Pros
- Easy to use: The all-inclusive kit simplifies the bluing process. This simplicity is great for beginners.
- Cost-effective: Offers a more affordable alternative to professional bluing services. Saving money is a big plus.
- Good results: When applied correctly, it provides a respectable and aesthetically pleasing finish. The results are worth the effort.
- Comprehensive kit: Includes all necessary components for a basic bluing job. Having everything in one place is convenient.
- Improved protection: Helps protect against rust and corrosion. Protection is critical.
Cons
- Requires thorough preparation: Proper surface preparation is critical for optimal results. Skipping steps will ruin the finish.
- Finish can be streaky: Achieving a perfectly uniform finish can be challenging, requiring extra polishing. Perfectionists may struggle.
Who Should Buy Birchwood Casey 13701 Perma Blue Gun Kit Paste?
The Birchwood Casey 13701 Perma Blue Gun Kit Paste is perfect for gun owners who want to touch up or completely reblue their firearms at home. It is ideal for budget-conscious individuals seeking an affordable alternative to professional gunsmithing services. This kit is also well-suited for hobbyists and DIY enthusiasts who enjoy working on their firearms.
Those seeking a flawless, factory-grade finish without any effort should probably skip this product. Individuals unwilling to invest the necessary time and effort in proper surface preparation should also avoid this kit. Similarly, gun owners with valuable or antique firearms might consider professional bluing services to ensure optimal results and preserve the firearm’s value.
A must-have accessory for use with the Birchwood Casey 13701 Perma Blue Gun Kit Paste is a high-quality degreaser. While the kit includes a cleaner-degreaser, a more potent solvent can significantly improve the adhesion and uniformity of the blued finish. Additionally, consider using lint-free cloths for polishing to prevent streaks and imperfections.
Conclusion on Birchwood Casey 13701 Perma Blue Gun Kit Paste
The Birchwood Casey 13701 Perma Blue Gun Kit Paste provides a cost-effective and relatively straightforward solution for bluing firearms at home. While it may not replicate the flawless finish of professional hot bluing, it offers a significant improvement in appearance and protection against rust. The kit’s all-inclusive nature and ease of use make it accessible to both beginners and experienced gun owners.
The price of $11.99 is justified considering the comprehensive nature of the kit and the potential savings compared to professional services. With proper preparation and careful application, the Birchwood Casey 13701 Perma Blue Gun Kit Paste can deliver satisfying results. The Birchwood Casey brand is well-known, so you can count on quality.
I would personally recommend the Birchwood Casey 13701 Perma Blue Gun Kit Paste to anyone looking to revive the finish of their firearms on a budget. Just remember to take your time, follow the instructions carefully, and be prepared to invest a little elbow grease. Give your firearm a new lease on life – try the Birchwood Casey 13701 Perma Blue Gun Kit Paste today!