First Thoughts on the BIRCHWOOD CASEY SPANISH SUPER BLUE LIQUID GUN BLUE 90 ML
The BIRCHWOOD CASEY SPANISH SUPER BLUE LIQUID GUN BLUE 90 ML promises to be a solution for restoring the finish on firearms, offering a deep, rich blue-black color. I’ve spent years working with all sorts of tactical gear, and a significant part of that involves firearms maintenance, including bluing. This small bottle from Birchwood Casey claims to provide professional-looking results at a fraction of the cost of a full re-bluing job.
What drove me to finally try this particular product was the need to touch up a few spots on an older hunting rifle that had seen better days. Over time, the bluing had worn thin in a few areas, and I wanted a relatively inexpensive and easy method to rectify it. I have used cold bluing pens, but desired a deeper, more uniform finish. The BIRCHWOOD CASEY SPANISH SUPER BLUE LIQUID GUN BLUE 90 ML seemed like the perfect solution to revive this classic rifle.
Unboxing was straightforward; it’s a small, no-frills bottle. Upon opening, I noted the distinct chemical odor, a familiar characteristic of bluing agents. It’s a small bottle, 90 ml, so it is appropriate for touch ups. My initial thought was that the liquid looked promisingly deep in color, which gave me hope for the final result.
I considered options like Brownells Oxpho-Blue and even some of the spray-on ceramic coatings, but I chose this Birchwood Casey product due to its simplicity and the generally positive reputation of the brand. Oxpho-Blue is fantastic, but it can be tricky for small touch-ups. My first impression was cautious optimism; hoping to see if the product lived up to the claims.
Real-World Testing: Putting BIRCHWOOD CASEY SPANISH SUPER BLUE LIQUID GUN BLUE 90 ML to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the BIRCHWOOD CASEY SPANISH SUPER BLUE LIQUID GUN BLUE 90 ML in my workshop, which is well-ventilated but not climate-controlled. The rifle I worked on had minor surface rust in a few spots that I prepped meticulously with steel wool and degreaser. Application was done with cotton swabs and clean cloths.
The liquid applied smoothly, but it was quickly apparent that multiple coats were necessary to achieve a consistent, even finish. Working in my non-climate controlled garage, the temperature fluctuated slightly, but I found that this did not impact the application. After the first coat, I was initially underwhelmed with the finish. Subsequent applications, with proper buffing, improved the result significantly.
The primary issue I encountered was the tendency for the bluing to streak if not applied evenly and buffed appropriately. The first-time user might be easily discouraged. This reinforced the need for patience and careful surface preparation.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks, the touch-up areas have held up well. The bluing seems durable, and there hasn’t been any significant fading or wear despite being handled regularly during cleaning and maintenance.
The finish seems resistant to light scratches, but I’m careful not to expose it to harsh solvents or abrasive cleaners. Proper cleaning and oiling are critical to ensure longevity. The BIRCHWOOD CASEY SPANISH SUPER BLUE LIQUID GUN BLUE 90 ML requires proper surface preparation more than anything to be effective.
Compared to past experiences with cold bluing pens, the BIRCHWOOD CASEY SPANISH SUPER BLUE LIQUID GUN BLUE 90 ML provides a noticeably deeper and richer blue. While the bluing pen is easier to use, the BIRCHWOOD CASEY SPANISH SUPER BLUE LIQUID GUN BLUE 90 ML offers a more professional looking touch up. It outperforms the pens in terms of depth of color and durability.
Breaking Down the Features of BIRCHWOOD CASEY SPANISH SUPER BLUE LIQUID GUN BLUE 90 ML
Specifications
The BIRCHWOOD CASEY SPANISH SUPER BLUE LIQUID GUN BLUE 90 ML has straightforward specifications.
- Liquid Form: Easy to apply with swabs or cloths.
- 90 ML Volume: Suitable for multiple touch-ups or small parts.
- Cold Bluing: No heat required, user-friendly application.
- Deep Blue-Black Finish: Provides a rich, professional look.
These specifications matter because they define the product’s ease of use and intended application. Cold bluing eliminates the need for specialized equipment or heat, making it accessible for home gunsmithing. The rich blue-black finish aims to restore or enhance the firearm’s aesthetic appeal.
Performance & Functionality
The BIRCHWOOD CASEY SPANISH SUPER BLUE LIQUID GUN BLUE 90 ML effectively blues steel surfaces, restoring the finish and protecting against corrosion. Achieving a uniform finish requires diligent surface preparation and careful application.
The product’s strength lies in its ability to provide a deep, attractive blue. The weakness is the learning curve associated with achieving consistent results. It meets expectations for providing a cold bluing solution, but exceeds expectations when proper technique is applied.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is basic and functional. It focuses on ease of use.
The liquid form and simple application process make it user-friendly. A slight learning curve exists for achieving optimal results due to surface preparation.
Durability & Maintenance
The blued finish, when properly applied, is reasonably durable. This provides decent protection against surface rust.
Maintenance involves regular cleaning and oiling of the treated surfaces. Reapplication may be necessary over time to maintain the finish.
Accessories and Customization Options
The BIRCHWOOD CASEY SPANISH SUPER BLUE LIQUID GUN BLUE 90 ML does not come with any accessories. Users will need to provide their own applicators (cotton swabs, cloths), degreasers, and abrasives for surface preparation.
While it doesn’t offer direct customization, the blued finish can complement aftermarket grips or other accessories. It enhances the overall look of a firearm.
Pros and Cons of BIRCHWOOD CASEY SPANISH SUPER BLUE LIQUID GUN BLUE 90 ML
Pros
- Provides a deep, rich blue-black finish for a restored appearance.
- Easy to apply without specialized equipment or heat.
- Cost-effective for touching up small areas or entire firearms.
- Offers decent protection against surface rust when properly applied.
- Small size makes it perfect for travel and quick touch ups.
Cons
- Achieving a uniform finish can be challenging and requires practice.
- Surface preparation is critical for optimal results; improper prep leads to poor results.
- Strong chemical odor during application.
Who Should Buy BIRCHWOOD CASEY SPANISH SUPER BLUE LIQUID GUN BLUE 90 ML?
This product is perfect for gun owners who want to touch up minor blemishes or restore the finish on their firearms without the expense of professional bluing. It benefits the do-it-yourself enthusiast.
Those seeking a quick, foolproof solution or those with extensive rust issues should skip this product. A professional re-bluing job would be a better option in these situations.
Must-have accessories include: a good degreaser, fine steel wool, cotton swabs, and a clean microfiber cloth for buffing. Gun oil is also required for after bluing protection.
Conclusion on BIRCHWOOD CASEY SPANISH SUPER BLUE LIQUID GUN BLUE 90 ML
The BIRCHWOOD CASEY SPANISH SUPER BLUE LIQUID GUN BLUE 90 ML is a solid product for those willing to invest the time and effort to achieve a professional-looking finish. While the initial learning curve can be frustrating, the results are rewarding.
At $6.49, the price is justified for the amount of product and the potential to restore multiple firearms. It’s more cost-effective than professional bluing for small jobs.
I would recommend the BIRCHWOOD CASEY SPANISH SUPER BLUE LIQUID GUN BLUE 90 ML to anyone looking for a DIY bluing solution, provided they are prepared to dedicate the time to learn the proper techniques. Give your firearm a facelift! Pick up a bottle and get restoring!
