Safety First: Your Top Priority
Before you even consider applying the Cerakote finish, safety must be your unwavering priority. This project involves handling firearms, abrasive materials, and potentially hazardous chemicals. Therefore, the following safety precautions are paramount:
Protective Gear: Invest in and meticulously use personal protective equipment (PPE). This includes a NIOSH-approved respirator with appropriate filters for organic vapors and particulates. A good quality respirator is not an option; it’s an absolute necessity. Wear safety glasses or a face shield to protect your eyes from sandblasting debris and overspray. Use chemical-resistant gloves, such as nitrile gloves, to shield your skin from degreasers and Cerakote itself.
Firearm Safety: Ensure the firearm is completely unloaded and safe before any disassembly or handling. Visually inspect the chamber and magazine to confirm the absence of ammunition. Verify that the firearm is clear and follow all standard firearm safety protocols throughout the process. It’s always prudent to double-check.
Ventilation: Work in a well-ventilated area. Cerakote application, degreasing, and curing can produce fumes that can be harmful. If you are working indoors, ensure proper airflow by using fans or an exhaust system.
Sandblasting Safety: When sandblasting, always wear a sandblasting hood and appropriate gloves. The abrasive media can cause serious injury if it comes into contact with your skin or eyes. Ensure the sandblasting cabinet is properly sealed and that the abrasive media is contained.
Gathering Your Arsenal of Materials
The success of your Cerakoting project hinges on having the right tools and materials. Here’s a comprehensive list:
Cerakote Coating: Choose the Cerakote product that best suits your needs. The H-Series is a popular choice for firearms due to its excellent durability and ease of application. Consider the color and finish you desire. Purchase enough Cerakote to cover the entire surface area of your firearm.
Cerakote Catalyst/Hardener: Cerakote is a two-part coating, so you will need the appropriate hardener specified for the Cerakote you have selected. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the correct mixing ratio.
Degreaser: A high-quality degreaser is essential for removing all oils, grease, and contaminants from the firearm’s surface. Common choices include acetone, brake cleaner, or a specialized degreasing solution. Ensure the degreaser is compatible with Cerakote.
Sandblasting Equipment: A sandblaster is crucial for prepping the firearm’s surface. You will need a sandblasting cabinet, a sandblasting gun, and an air compressor capable of delivering sufficient pressure. Choose the correct abrasive media.
Abrasive Media: The choice of abrasive media is important for achieving the correct surface profile. Aluminum oxide is a common and effective choice for steel parts. Glass bead is often used for aluminum parts, offering a less aggressive profile.
Spray Gun: Invest in a quality spray gun designed for applying coatings. An HVLP (High Volume Low Pressure) spray gun is ideal for achieving a smooth and even finish. Choose a nozzle size appropriate for the Cerakote you are using.
Air Compressor and Accessories: You will need a reliable air compressor to power your spray gun and sandblasting equipment. An air dryer and air regulator are critical for providing clean, dry air. This will prevent moisture from contaminating the Cerakote and causing defects.
Curing Oven: A dedicated oven is required for curing the Cerakote finish. The oven must be capable of maintaining the temperature specified by the Cerakote manufacturer. A small countertop oven is often sufficient for firearm parts.
Cleaning Supplies: Have plenty of lint-free cloths, brushes, and cleaning solutions on hand to clean parts thoroughly before, during, and after the application process.
Masking Materials: Use masking tape, plugs, and other masking materials to protect areas that should not be coated, such as threads, serial numbers, and internal components.
Disassembly: The Foundation of a Perfect Finish
Before you even think about spraying Cerakote, you must completely disassemble the firearm. This is arguably the most crucial step in the whole process.
Take Notes and Pictures: Document the disassembly process with detailed notes and photographs. This will be invaluable when it comes time to reassemble the firearm. Label the parts to assist in reassembly.
Careful Disassembly: Take your time and carefully disassemble the firearm. Identify and remove all parts that are not meant to be coated. Use appropriate tools to avoid damaging any components.
Masking Strategy: Mask off areas that you don’t want to be coated. This can include threads, serial numbers, trigger groups, and any other internal components that are not designed to be coated.
Small Parts Handling: Keep track of small parts. Use containers or trays to prevent losing or misplacing them.
Preparing the Canvas: Surface Perfection
Surface preparation is paramount to the longevity and adherence of the Cerakote finish.
Degreasing: Eliminating Impurities: Thorough degreasing is absolutely critical. Clean the firearm parts meticulously to remove all traces of oil, grease, and any other contaminants. Use a degreaser and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. The goal is a completely clean and oil-free surface.
Sandblasting: Creating the Perfect Anchor: Sandblasting roughens the surface, creating a mechanical bond for the Cerakote. The sandblasting process must be done correctly.
Sandblasting Equipment
Set up your sandblasting cabinet. Ensure the cabinet is properly sealed and that your air compressor is delivering adequate pressure.
Abrasive Media Selection
Choose the correct abrasive media for your specific firearm parts. Follow the Cerakote manufacturer’s recommendations.
Technique
Use a consistent and controlled sandblasting technique. Maintain a consistent distance and angle from the part. Don’t concentrate on any one area for too long, as this could cause uneven removal of material.
Surface Profile
The goal is to achieve the right surface profile. This provides an ideal surface for the Cerakote to adhere. The abrasive blasting creates a slight texture, which ensures that the coating bonds securely.
Post-Sandblasting Cleaning
After sandblasting, thoroughly clean the parts to remove any residual abrasive media. Use compressed air and lint-free cloths.
Applying the Finish: The Art of Cerakoting
With the surface meticulously prepared, you’re ready to apply the Cerakote.
Mixing the Coating: The Right Combination: Carefully mix the Cerakote with the hardener according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Use a digital scale to measure the components accurately. Thoroughly mix the coating to ensure a uniform consistency. Remember the pot life of the Cerakote.
Spraying Technique: Achieving a Smooth Finish: Load the mixed Cerakote into your spray gun. Adjust the spray gun settings (air pressure, fluid flow, and nozzle size) according to the Cerakote manufacturer’s recommendations.
Consistent Application
Apply the Cerakote in thin, even coats. Use overlapping passes to ensure complete coverage. Aim for a wet-on-wet application, allowing the coats to flow together slightly.
Multiple Coats
Applying multiple thin coats is often preferable to a single thick coat. This allows for better control and reduces the risk of runs and sags.
Addressing Imperfections
Inspect each coat before applying the next. Address any imperfections, such as runs or sags, before they dry.
Inspection: Assessing Your Work: After spraying the parts, carefully inspect them under good lighting. Look for any defects, such as uneven coverage, runs, or sags. Make sure the coating is uniform.
The Curing Process: Solidifying Your Work
The curing process is essential to transform the wet Cerakote into a durable, hardened finish.
Oven Setup: Establishing the Environment: Preheat your oven to the temperature specified by the Cerakote manufacturer. Ensure the oven is clean and free of any contaminants.
The Baking Process: The Heart of the Matter: Carefully place the coated parts in the oven. Maintain the recommended temperature and curing time. Ensure adequate ventilation to remove any fumes.
Cooling and Inspection: Assessing the Final Product: After the curing cycle is complete, allow the parts to cool completely within the oven. Once cool, remove the parts and perform a final inspection.
Reassembly and Finishing Touches: Bringing it all Together
Reassembly is the final step in the process.
Careful Reassembly: Carefully reassemble the firearm, using your notes and pictures to guide you.
Post-Assembly Inspection: Thoroughly inspect the fully reassembled firearm. Make sure all parts are correctly installed and that the firearm functions properly.
Lubrication and Function Testing: Lubricate the firearm according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Test the firearm to ensure it functions correctly.
Cleaning and Maintenance: Clean and maintain your newly Cerakoted firearm according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Troubleshooting: Addressing Common Challenges
No project is without its potential hiccups. Here are some common problems and how to address them:
Coating Defects:
Runs and Sags
These can result from applying the coating too thickly or from incorrect spray gun settings. Apply thinner coats and adjust the spray gun settings.
Orange Peel
This results from a rough surface. Ensure proper sandblasting and spraying technique.
Fish Eyes
These can occur due to contamination on the surface. Ensure the firearm parts are completely clean before spraying.
Adhesion Issues: This can be caused by improper surface preparation. Make sure the firearm is thoroughly degreased and sandblasted.
Color Problems: This can be caused by incorrect mixing of the coating or by the use of improper techniques. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
In Conclusion: Embracing the Cerakote Journey
Cerakoting a gun is a rewarding process that combines artistry and technical skill. By mastering the steps outlined in this comprehensive guide, you’re well on your way to achieving professional-quality results. Remember, safety, meticulous preparation, and attention to detail are the keys to success. This guide has provided you with the knowledge of “How To Cerakote A Gun,” empowering you to tackle this project with confidence.
Resources
Here are some valuable resources to help you on your Cerakoting journey:
Cerakote Manufacturer Website: ([https://www.cerakote.com/](https://www.cerakote.com/)) For product information, technical data sheets, and instructional videos.
Suppliers of Equipment and Materials: Brownells, MidwayUSA, and other reputable retailers.
Online Forums and Communities: Ar15.com and other forums where you can connect with experienced Cerakoters.
By following this guide and utilizing these resources, you’ll be well-equipped to transform your firearms with a durable and beautiful Cerakote finish. Remember that practice makes perfect and that patience is your friend. Good luck, and enjoy the satisfaction of creating a customized firearm that reflects your personal style and protects your investment.
