Hardest wearing dark/black finish?

December 29, 2017, 12:15 PM

I was hoping some of you could advise me on the toughest dark (preferably black) finish you've used. I have an old 1911 project that I need refinished, and I'd also like to apply something similar to a Ruger 10/22 that appears to have a bare aluminum receiver.

ETA: I would prefer a melonite type finish on the 1911 if someone can recommend someone for that...I realize that wouldn't apply to the aluminum receiver.

December 29, 2017, 01:55 PM

ether

quote:
Originally posted by mbacker_99:
IMO, a melonite type finish is one of the worst for tightly fit handguns.

Very much agreed. This is a project I've been working off and on for 25 years based on a Colt 1991A1. It's not particularly special, other than the amount of time I've spent fiddling with it over the years. It's loose as a goose, so I figured melonite would work well for the slide and frame. The barrel and bushing are fine as-is. I just need to finish it up...been sitting on it too long. Anyway, thank you for the reference!

December 29, 2017, 02:09 PM

dehughes

quote:
Originally posted by mbacker_99:
...

IMO, a melonite type finish is one of the worst for tightly fit handguns.

Interesting.

I owned my Springfield Range Officer for ~5 years before I had it refinished in Grey Guns Super Black. I figured by that time it'd be broken in well enough.

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December 30, 2017, 10:00 AM

12131

quote:
Originally posted by Sunset_Va:
Ion Bond DLC (Diamond Like Coating).

Can be done in High Polish, Satin , or Matte.

Yep. Just take a look at the current SIG barrels in DLC (Diamond Like Carbon) finish. It does live up to its name.

P210 barrel after 1000 rounds. Good as new.

December 30, 2017, 06:15 PM

Scooter123

I have a 9mm Ruger SR1911 and whatever they are using to coat the aluminum frame is absolutely the toughest coating I have ever seen. BTW I suspect it's cerrocoat but Ruger has not stated what they are using anywhere I've tried looking. Currently I have probable 2500 rounds downrange and while cleaning it this week I gave the frame a good looking over using a visor magnifier and I still cannot see ANY indication of wear. The slide is a bit of a different story, you can see where the grooves are taking on a bit of a polish.

I've stopped counting.

January 04, 2018, 03:27 PM

ether

Sorry, I've been outta pocket for a few days. Thanks for all the replies. I'm really liking the look of that barrel in Ion Bond...I think that's the direction I might be headed. Thanks again for all the replies!

I'll post some pics once I finally do finish this thing. I did it up in the style of the old Marine MEU pistol. Some of the parts are correct, like the King's commander hammer and rear sight and the Pachmayr grips. But it'll never really be close since it's a series 80 after all.