Birchwood Casey Super Blue Liquid Gun Blue Review

Let’s Talk About Birchwood Casey Super Blue Liquid Gun Blue

As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen my fair share of firearms and the inevitable wear and tear they endure. That’s why I decided to rigorously test and review the Birchwood Casey Super Blue Liquid Gun Blue. This product, manufactured by Birchwood Casey, promises a double-strength blueing solution, targeting highly polished steel parts and hardened steels with nickel and chrome alloys.

I was seeking a reliable solution for touching up the finish on several of my firearms after years of use in the field. Scratches, dings, and the dreaded surface rust were starting to take their toll. The Super Blue caught my eye because of its promise of a dark, black-blue finish and its suitability for harder steels.

Upon receiving the Birchwood Casey Super Blue Liquid Gun Blue, my initial impression was positive. The bottle itself is a no-frills, functional design. The liquid inside appeared uniform and of a consistency that suggested easy application. Compared to cold blue paste options I’ve used in the past, the liquid form factor seemed like it would allow for more precise application, especially in tight spots. I chose this over paint pens because I wanted a chemical process, not just a surface coating, for a more permanent and authentic restoration.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The claims were bold, and the price of $62.90 felt steep. However, if it delivered on its promises, it would be a worthwhile investment.

Real-World Testing: Putting Birchwood Casey Super Blue Liquid Gun Blue to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test subject was an older 1911 with some noticeable wear on the slide and frame, primarily around the high-friction areas. I performed the bluing process in my well-ventilated workshop, ensuring a clean and rust-free surface by using a quality degreaser and steel wool. The Super Blue was applied with cotton swabs (Q-tips) to small, targeted areas.

The initial application was straightforward, but the solution reacted quickly, as advertised. In a controlled environment, I noticed subtle color changes as the solution interacted with the steel. Initially, there was no alarming or concerning issues, which was a positive sign for the product’s ease of use.

I did experience a slight learning curve, as the speed of the reaction required a deft hand and constant monitoring.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use and multiple applications on various firearms, including a lever-action rifle and a shotgun, the Birchwood Casey Super Blue Liquid Gun Blue has proven to be fairly reliable. The finish has held up surprisingly well, even after repeated handling and exposure to the elements during a recent hunting trip. There is minimal signs of wear and tear and any of the blueing that was applied has maintained a good quality, even in the cold, wet, and dusty conditions of the wilderness.

Maintenance involves simply keeping the blued areas clean and lightly oiled to prevent future rust. Cleaning the surfaces and re-application is easy to do, taking very little time. Compared to previous cold blue solutions, the Super Blue offers a noticeably darker and more durable finish, and it definitely outperformed the paint pens.

Breaking Down the Features of Birchwood Casey Super Blue Liquid Gun Blue

Specifications

The Birchwood Casey Super Blue Liquid Gun Blue is characterized by several key specifications:

• Double-Strength Formula: It’s formulated to provide a deeper, darker blue compared to standard blueing solutions. This is critical for achieving a professional-looking finish and better matching existing bluing on firearms.
• Suitable for Hardened Steels: This product is designed to work on highly polished steel parts and hardened steels containing nickel and chrome alloys (except stainless steel). This expands the range of firearms it can be used on.
• Liquid Form: The liquid form allows for precise application, especially in small or intricate areas. It enables a more uniform coating compared to paste or cream-based alternatives.
• 3 oz. Quantity: The 3 oz bottle provides ample solution for multiple touch-up jobs or even re-blueing smaller parts. This makes it a cost-effective solution for gun owners.

These specifications are important because they determine the effectiveness and versatility of the product. The double-strength formula ensures a richer finish, while the compatibility with various steel types makes it suitable for a wide range of firearms.

Performance & Functionality

The Birchwood Casey Super Blue Liquid Gun Blue performs its job adequately, providing a noticeable improvement in the appearance of worn or scratched gun parts. The accuracy of the color match depends heavily on the existing bluing and the preparation of the surface. Strengths include its ease of application and the speed of the blueing process.

One weakness is the potential for uneven coloring if not applied carefully. The product does meet expectations, providing a decent cold blue solution for minor repairs and touch-ups.

Design & Ergonomics

The design is straightforward: a simple bottle containing the blueing solution. Build quality is adequate. It is important to handle the product with care and wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). The bottle is not particularly ergonomic, but the liquid form factor lends itself to easy application via cotton swabs or applicators.

There is a slight learning curve to achieve consistent results.

Durability & Maintenance

The durability of the blued finish appears to be decent, though it’s not as robust as a professional hot blue. Regular cleaning and oiling are essential to maintain the finish and prevent future rust. The blued finish has proven to last for an adequate time period, provided the proper cleaning and maintenance is performed.

Maintenance is relatively simple.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Birchwood Casey Super Blue Liquid Gun Blue doesn’t come with specific accessories. However, its effectiveness can be significantly enhanced by using appropriate preparation and application tools. Degreasers, steel wool, cotton swabs, and protective gloves are essential.

The blueing can be further enhanced by applying a gun oil or protectant after the process is complete. This product is compatible with most standard gun cleaning and maintenance products.

Pros and Cons of Birchwood Casey Super Blue Liquid Gun Blue

Who Should Buy Birchwood Casey Super Blue Liquid Gun Blue?

The Birchwood Casey Super Blue Liquid Gun Blue is perfect for gun owners who want to perform minor touch-ups or re-blueing jobs on their firearms at home. It’s also suitable for those who have firearms with hardened steel components that are not compatible with standard blueing solutions. This includes hunters and competitive shooters.

This product might not be the best choice for those seeking a long-lasting, professional-grade finish. Gun owners should consult a professional gunsmith for extensive restoration work.

Must-have accessories include a high-quality degreaser, fine steel wool, cotton swabs, and gun oil.

Conclusion on Birchwood Casey Super Blue Liquid Gun Blue

Overall, the Birchwood Casey Super Blue Liquid Gun Blue is a capable cold blueing solution that offers a decent balance of performance and ease of use. While it may not replicate the durability of a professional hot blue, it provides a noticeable improvement in the appearance of firearms with minor wear and tear. The liquid form allows for precise application.

At $62.90, the price is reasonable considering the effectiveness of the formula and the amount of product provided. I would recommend it to gun owners who are comfortable performing basic gun maintenance and are looking for a convenient way to touch up or re-blue their firearms. The Birchwood Casey Super Blue Liquid Gun Blue is a solid option for DIY gun care, especially for touching up worn spots or addressing minor rust. Give it a try and bring your firearms back to life.