The Birchwood Casey Perma Blue Liquid Gun Blue, 32 oz Made a Bold First Impression
As someone deeply entrenched in the world of firearms, maintaining their finish and preventing rust is always a top priority. Over the years, I’ve encountered countless products promising to restore worn gun metal, but many fall short of delivering truly professional results. When I saw the Birchwood Casey Perma Blue Liquid Gun Blue, 32 oz, I was intrigued. It held the promise of a non-streaky, uniform blue-black finish and came from Birchwood Casey, a name synonymous with gun care, I had to put it to the test.
I’d recently acquired a vintage shotgun with significant bluing wear on the receiver. This shotgun was beautiful and functional, but the worn finish detracted from its overall appeal and increased its susceptibility to rust. I needed a solution that could effectively re-blue the steel, enhancing its aesthetics and providing lasting protection.
Upon receiving the Birchwood Casey Perma Blue Liquid Gun Blue, 32 oz, I immediately noted the ample quantity. The 32-ounce bottle felt substantial, indicating it would be sufficient for multiple projects. Comparing it to smaller bluing pens and aerosol cans I’d used previously, the Perma Blue Liquid stood out due to its potential for larger-scale re-bluing and touch-ups. Its liquid form also seemed more conducive to achieving an even, consistent coating, a crucial aspect often lacking in paste-based products. I chose this product over cold bluing kits from Brownells and G96 because it offered a larger volume and a liquid application method, which I believed would lead to superior results.
My initial reaction was one of cautious optimism. The sheer volume of the Perma Blue Liquid suggested a professional-grade solution, but the success hinged on the application process. I was eager to see if it could truly deliver the promised uniform blue-black finish on my weathered shotgun receiver.
Real-World Testing: Putting Birchwood Casey Perma Blue Liquid Gun Blue, 32 oz to the Test
First Use Experience
My first application of the Birchwood Casey Perma Blue Liquid Gun Blue, 32 oz was on the aforementioned shotgun receiver. I meticulously followed the instructions, starting with a thorough degreasing and cleaning of the metal surface, utilizing Birchwood Casey’s cleaner-degreaser. Working in a well-ventilated area, I applied thin, even coats of the Perma Blue Liquid using cotton swabs.
The initial coats appeared somewhat streaky, requiring multiple applications to achieve the desired depth of color. Inconsistent metal preparation could potentially cause such issues. It was crucial to neutralize the bluing action between coats, ensuring a uniform reaction. The cold shop conditions impacted the speed of the bluing process.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks, the re-blued shotgun receiver retained its rich, blue-black finish. There were no signs of fading or streaking, even after handling and light cleaning. The finish appeared durable, resisting minor scratches and abrasions that would have quickly damaged a lesser-quality bluing job.
Periodic applications of gun oil ensured the bluing remained protected and preserved its luster. Proper maintenance significantly extended the lifespan of the finish. Compared to my previous experiences with aerosol bluing, the Birchwood Casey Perma Blue Liquid Gun Blue, 32 oz provided a noticeably more durable and aesthetically pleasing result. I felt it definitely outperformed my previous results.
Breaking Down the Features of Birchwood Casey Perma Blue Liquid Gun Blue, 32 oz
Specifications
The Birchwood Casey Perma Blue Liquid Gun Blue, 32 oz boasts several key specifications that contribute to its effectiveness:
- 32 fl. oz. (946 ml) Volume: The generous quantity provides ample solution for multiple projects, including complete re-bluing of long guns. This is a massive advantage for professionals or enthusiasts with multiple firearms to maintain.
- Liquid Form: The liquid consistency allows for easy and uniform application, minimizing the risk of streaking or uneven coverage. Liquid bluing is usually easier to control and blend than paste alternatives.
- Blue-Black Finish: The formula is designed to produce a deep, rich blue-black finish that closely resembles factory bluing. This provides a professional, aesthetically pleasing restoration.
- Steel Compatibility (Excluding Stainless): The Perma Blue Liquid is specifically formulated for use on steel surfaces, excluding stainless steel, aluminum, or non-ferrous metals. Users should take note of this material constraint.
- Fast-Acting Formula: The liquid’s quick-acting nature allows for rapid bluing, reducing project completion time. This saves time for users while still producing a quality finish.
These specifications are crucial because they directly influence the ease of use, the quality of the finish, and the types of firearms on which the Birchwood Casey Perma Blue Liquid Gun Blue, 32 oz can be applied. The large volume and liquid form translate to greater convenience and control, while the blue-black finish and steel compatibility ensure a professional-looking and durable restoration.
Performance & Functionality
The Birchwood Casey Perma Blue Liquid Gun Blue, 32 oz performs admirably in its intended function of re-bluing steel firearms. The bluing action is relatively quick, allowing for multiple coats to be applied in a single session. The resulting finish is generally uniform and aesthetically pleasing, provided proper surface preparation and application techniques are followed.
The Perma Blue Liquid effectively restores the original blue-black luster to worn metal surfaces, enhancing the firearm’s appearance and protecting it from rust. Some users may find the need for multiple coats a minor inconvenience, and achieving a perfectly even finish requires practice. Overall, this product met my expectations based on the quality of finish produced.
Design & Ergonomics
The Birchwood Casey Perma Blue Liquid Gun Blue, 32 oz is primarily focused on functionality rather than complex design elements. The liquid is easily dispensed from the plastic bottle, facilitating controlled application. The solution’s consistency ensures it spreads evenly across the metal surface, promoting a consistent finish.
The straightforward design and ease of application make it user-friendly, even for those with limited experience in firearm refinishing. Proper ventilation is necessary due to the chemical nature of the bluing solution.
Durability & Maintenance
The durability of the Birchwood Casey Perma Blue Liquid Gun Blue, 32 oz finish is dependent on proper application and ongoing maintenance. With proper surface preparation and multiple coats, the bluing provides a resilient protective layer against rust and minor abrasions. Regular cleaning and application of gun oil further extend the finish’s lifespan.
The product is relatively easy to maintain, requiring only occasional cleaning and oiling to preserve its appearance and protective properties. Its longevity is affected by the gun’s usage and environmental elements.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Birchwood Casey Perma Blue Liquid Gun Blue, 32 oz itself does not come with additional accessories. However, Birchwood Casey offers a range of complementary products designed to enhance the bluing process. These include:
- Cleaner-Degreaser: Essential for removing oil, grease, and other contaminants from the metal surface prior to bluing.
- Blue & Rust Remover: Used to remove existing rust and old bluing to ensure proper adhesion of the new finish.
- Barricade Rust Protection: Applied after bluing to protect the finish and prevent rust.
While the Perma Blue Liquid does not directly offer customization options, the bluing process can be used in conjunction with other firearm modifications. Aftermarket parts, such as triggers, hammers, and sights, can be re-blued to match the firearm’s finish.
Pros and Cons of Birchwood Casey Perma Blue Liquid Gun Blue, 32 oz
Pros
- Large Volume (32 oz): Provides ample solution for multiple projects, including complete re-bluing of long guns.
- Liquid Form: Allows for easy and uniform application, minimizing the risk of streaking or uneven coverage.
- Blue-Black Finish: Produces a deep, rich blue-black finish that closely resembles factory bluing.
- Steel Compatibility: Specifically formulated for use on steel surfaces (excluding stainless steel, aluminum, or non-ferrous metals).
- Cost-Effective: Provides a professional-quality bluing solution at a fraction of the cost of professional gunsmithing services.
Cons
- Not for Stainless Steel: Incompatible with stainless steel, aluminum, or non-ferrous metals.
- Requires Preparation: Demands meticulous surface preparation for optimal results, which can be time-consuming.
Who Should Buy Birchwood Casey Perma Blue Liquid Gun Blue, 32 oz?
The Birchwood Casey Perma Blue Liquid Gun Blue, 32 oz is perfect for:
- Gun enthusiasts: Anyone looking to restore or maintain the finish of their steel firearms.
- DIY gunsmiths: Those comfortable performing basic gunsmithing tasks and firearm maintenance.
- Collectors: Individuals seeking to preserve the original appearance and value of vintage firearms.
- Hunters: People looking to protect their firearms from rust and corrosion in harsh outdoor conditions.
This product might not be ideal for:
- Beginners: Individuals with no prior experience in firearm maintenance or refinishing.
- Stainless steel firearm owners: Those looking to re-blue stainless steel firearms.
- Individuals seeking instant results: Those unwilling to invest time and effort in proper surface preparation and application.
Must-have accessories include:
- Birchwood Casey Cleaner-Degreaser: For preparing the metal surface.
- Blue & Rust Remover: For removing existing rust and old bluing.
- Barricade Rust Protection: For protecting the finish after bluing.
Conclusion on Birchwood Casey Perma Blue Liquid Gun Blue, 32 oz
The Birchwood Casey Perma Blue Liquid Gun Blue, 32 oz delivers on its promise of providing a professional-quality bluing solution for steel firearms. Its generous volume, easy application, and rich blue-black finish make it a valuable tool for gun enthusiasts, DIY gunsmiths, and collectors alike. While it requires meticulous surface preparation and is not suitable for stainless steel, the results are well worth the effort for those seeking to restore or maintain the finish of their firearms.
At $34.49, the price is justified, considering the amount of product provided and the professional-quality results it delivers. I would personally recommend the Birchwood Casey Perma Blue Liquid Gun Blue, 32 oz to anyone looking to restore their old firearms. Restore and preserve the finish of your steel firearms with the Birchwood Casey Perma Blue Liquid Gun Blue, 32 oz, it’s a solution you can depend on for quality results.