The Birchwood Casey 13701 Perma Blue Gun Kit Paste Made a Bold First Impression
As someone who has spent over a decade immersed in the world of firearms and tactical gear, I’ve seen my fair share of wear and tear on blued steel. The Birchwood Casey 13701 Perma Blue Gun Kit Paste promises a convenient solution for touching up or completely re-bluing firearms, a task I’ve previously outsourced to gunsmiths or tackled with more elaborate, time-consuming methods. This kit offered the appeal of a complete, DIY solution, and I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype.
I was drawn to this product because of its all-in-one nature. The promise of a complete re-bluing solution, without having to source individual components, was a major selling point. Upon unboxing, I was pleasantly surprised by the completeness of the kit; it felt comprehensive and well-organized.
I considered using cold bluing liquids, but I opted for the Birchwood Casey 13701 Perma Blue Gun Kit Paste due to the generally thicker, more even finish that a paste is rumored to provide. I’ve used liquid bluing solutions in the past and found the process messy and the results uneven. My initial impression was cautiously optimistic; the kit looked professional and well-stocked, giving me hope for a quality finish.
Real-World Testing: Putting Birchwood Casey 13701 Perma Blue Gun Kit Paste to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test subject was an old, but reliable, .22LR rifle with significant bluing wear on the receiver and barrel. I followed the instructions meticulously, ensuring the metal was thoroughly cleaned and degreased using the provided cleaner-degreaser. The paste applied smoothly, and I diligently rubbed it in according to the instructions, leaving it to set for the recommended time before neutralizing and oiling.
The initial results were a bit underwhelming. The bluing was noticeably darker, but somewhat streaky in places, requiring a second application to even out the finish. Thankfully, after the second application and careful buffing, the bluing darkened and began to even out, providing a good depth of color.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks, the bluing has held up remarkably well, showing no signs of fading or wear, even with regular handling and cleaning. The finish is more resilient than I initially anticipated, withstanding the rigors of range use and storage without any noticeable degradation. The maintenance is straightforward; a simple wipe-down with gun oil after cleaning keeps the bluing looking fresh and protected.
Compared to my previous experiences with liquid bluing, the Birchwood Casey 13701 Perma Blue Gun Kit Paste offers a more controlled application and a seemingly more durable finish. While the initial application required more effort than expected, the long-term results have been significantly better, making the extra effort worthwhile.
Breaking Down the Features of Birchwood Casey 13701 Perma Blue Gun Kit Paste
Specifications
The Birchwood Casey 13701 Perma Blue Gun Kit Paste is an all-inclusive kit designed for touching up or completely re-bluing most guns. The kit contains Perma Blue Paste Gun Blue, Cleaner-Degreaser, fine steel wool, applicator swabs, and complete instructions. The paste formula is designed to provide a deep, dense blue-black finish on properly prepared steel surfaces.
The kit’s specifications are critical because they dictate the quality and durability of the final finish. The inclusion of a cleaner-degreaser is essential for proper adhesion, and the paste’s chemical composition determines the depth and evenness of the bluing.
Performance & Functionality
The Birchwood Casey 13701 Perma Blue Gun Kit Paste performs its core function reasonably well, providing a noticeable improvement in the appearance of worn bluing. It delivers a decent blue-black finish, enhancing the gun’s aesthetics and providing a layer of corrosion protection. However, achieving a truly professional-looking finish requires patience, meticulous preparation, and potentially multiple applications.
The kit’s strengths lie in its all-inclusive nature and relatively low cost. The primary weakness is the potential for unevenness in the finish, especially for those with limited experience. Despite its claims, this kit may not completely meet the expectations of those seeking a flawless, factory-grade bluing job without considerable effort.
Design & Ergonomics
The Birchwood Casey 13701 Perma Blue Gun Kit Paste kit is designed for ease of use, with clear instructions and all necessary components included. The materials are of decent quality, and the paste has a manageable consistency for application. However, the small size of the applicator swabs can be a bit limiting when working on larger surfaces.
The kit is relatively user-friendly, but a certain learning curve is expected, especially for first-time users. Proper surface preparation and even application are crucial for achieving satisfactory results.
Durability & Maintenance
The bluing achieved with the Birchwood Casey paste is reasonably durable, providing adequate protection against rust and wear under normal use. While it may not be as robust as a hot bluing process, it holds up well with regular cleaning and oiling. The maintenance is simple, requiring only routine cleaning and lubrication to maintain the finish.
The longevity of the bluing depends heavily on the quality of the initial preparation and the level of care during use. With proper maintenance, the finish should last for a considerable time, providing continued protection and aesthetic appeal.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Birchwood Casey 13701 Perma Blue Gun Kit Paste includes all the essential accessories needed for the bluing process. Beyond what is provided, the bluing can be further enhanced and protected with aftermarket gun oils and waxes. The bluing process itself doesn’t offer extensive customization options, but a variety of finishes can be achieved with different application techniques.
The paste is generally compatible with most firearms, provided the metal surfaces are properly prepared. It works best on carbon steel and may not adhere properly to stainless steel or other non-ferrous metals.
Pros and Cons of Birchwood Casey 13701 Perma Blue Gun Kit Paste
Pros
- Affordable and cost-effective: Significantly cheaper than professional bluing services.
- All-inclusive kit: Contains everything needed for a complete bluing job.
- Relatively easy to use: Simple instructions make it accessible to beginners.
- Noticeable improvement: Enhances the appearance of worn or faded bluing.
- Decent durability: Provides adequate protection against rust and wear with proper maintenance.
Cons
- Potential for unevenness: Achieving a perfectly even finish requires experience and patience.
- Messy application: Can be challenging to avoid drips and streaks.
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 minor blemishes or refresh the bluing on their firearms without the expense of professional services. It’s ideal for hobbyists, DIY enthusiasts, and those willing to invest time and effort in achieving a decent finish. Those seeking a quick and flawless solution, or those working with high-value firearms, should probably skip this product.
Must-have accessories for optimal results include high-quality degreasing solvents, lint-free cloths, and fine-grit polishing compounds for surface preparation.
Conclusion on Birchwood Casey 13701 Perma Blue Gun Kit Paste
The Birchwood Casey 13701 Perma Blue Gun Kit Paste offers a viable and affordable solution for touching up or re-bluing firearms at home. While it may not deliver professional-grade results without considerable effort, it provides a noticeable improvement in appearance and decent protection against rust and wear. The price is definitely justified for the value you get, especially compared to the cost of a professional gunsmith.
I would personally recommend the Birchwood Casey 13701 Perma Blue Gun Kit Paste to anyone looking to restore the finish on their firearms. It’s a cost-effective way to refresh your firearms yourself. Give it a try and see for yourself; with some time and effort, you can achieve a surprisingly good result.