Restore, Protect, and Enhance: The Definitive Guide to Firearm Bluing with the Birchwood Casey Perma Blue Gun Blue Kit

For firearm enthusiasts, collectors, and responsible gun owners, maintaining the aesthetic appeal and protective finish of their beloved firearms is paramount. Over time, factors like handling, environmental exposure, and general wear and tear can degrade a firearm's blued finish, leading to faded spots, unsightly scratches, and, most critically, increased susceptibility to rust. This often leaves owners asking: "How can I restore the original beauty and corrosion resistance of my firearm?" or "What's the best way to touch up worn spots on my gun?" The answer, for many, lies in cold bluing, and the Birchwood Casey Perma Blue Gun Blue Kit (UPC 029057137019) stands out as a premier solution for achieving professional-looking results right from your own workbench.

This comprehensive kit is specifically designed for individuals seeking a reliable, DIY method to reblue or touch up steel firearm components. It's ideal for anyone looking to undertake a firearm restoration project without the need for complex hot bluing equipment or costly professional gunsmithing services. Whether you're dealing with an antique rifle, a well-used shotgun, or simply want to refresh the finish on a handgun, this kit provides everything necessary to achieve a durable, deep blue-black finish that both protects and beautifies.

Understanding Gun Bluing: More Than Just Aesthetics

Before diving into the specifics of the kit, it's essential to understand what gun bluing is and why it's so important for firearm longevity. Bluing is a passivation process that converts the surface of ferrous metal (iron or steel) into a protective layer of black oxide (magnetite). This process isn't merely about making the metal look good; its primary function is to provide an essential barrier against rust and corrosion.

When steel is exposed to oxygen and moisture, it oxidizes, forming red rust (iron oxide), which is highly destructive to the metal. The black oxide layer created by bluing is a stable form of iron oxide that acts as a sacrificial layer, preventing the more corrosive red rust from forming directly on the bare steel. While bluing offers significant protection, it also enhances the firearm's appearance, giving it that classic, deep luster that many gun owners cherish.

Cold bluing, as offered by the Birchwood Casey Perma Blue kit, utilizes a chemical reaction at room temperature to achieve this protective oxide layer. Unlike hot bluing, which involves immersing parts in boiling caustic salt solutions, cold bluing is far more accessible for the average user, requiring fewer specialized tools and a less hazardous environment.

Why Choose the Birchwood Casey Perma Blue Paste Kit?

The Birchwood Casey Perma Blue Gun Blue Paste Kit is celebrated for its ease of use, comprehensive inclusions, and the quality of its results. Here’s why it’s a top choice for DIY firearm bluing:

• Accessibility for DIY Enthusiasts: You don't need to be a professional gunsmith to use this kit effectively. Its paste format allows for precise application, making it easier to manage than liquid solutions, especially for vertical surfaces or touch-ups.
• Complete Solution: Unlike individual bluing chemicals, this kit provides every essential item needed from start to finish: cleaning, rust removal, bluing application, and even final rust protection. This eliminates the guesswork of gathering separate components.
• Cost-Effective Restoration: Restoring a firearm's finish professionally can be expensive. The Perma Blue kit offers a highly economical alternative, extending the life and enhancing the value of your firearms without breaking the bank.
• Proven Results: Birchwood Casey has been a trusted name in firearm care for decades, and their bluing products are renowned for delivering durable, dark, and even finishes when applied correctly.
• Enhanced Firearm Value and Protection: A well-maintained firearm, with a restored blued finish, not only looks better but is also better protected against the elements, preserving its mechanical integrity and potential resale value.

Inside the Kit: A Component-by-Component Breakdown

The success of any bluing project hinges on proper preparation and the quality of the materials used. The Birchwood Casey Perma Blue Gun Blue Kit (UPC 029057137019) thoughtfully includes a curated selection of products to guide you through each critical stage:

1. 2 oz Perma Blue Paste Gun Blue: This is the heart of the kit. The paste formula is especially advantageous for touch-ups or for bluing larger surfaces where a controlled application is preferred. It adheres well to the metal, ensuring even coverage and reducing drips. When applied, it chemically reacts with the steel, creating the deep blue-black oxide finish.
2. 3 oz Cleaner-Degreaser: Proper degreasing is arguably the most crucial step in any bluing process. Any oil, grease, or residue on the metal surface will prevent the bluing solution from bonding effectively, leading to patchy or uneven results. This powerful cleaner ensures your firearm's metal surfaces are meticulously prepared, providing an ideal foundation for the bluing paste.
3. 3 oz Blue & Rust Remover: This solution is indispensable for stripping away old finishes and existing rust. Before applying new bluing, all previous coatings and corrosion must be completely removed to ensure a uniform and durable new finish. It works by dissolving old bluing and converting stubborn rust, making it easy to wipe away.
4. Bluing Applicators: These small, specialized tools allow for precise and controlled application of the bluing paste, essential for achieving an even coat and reaching intricate areas.
5. Sponge: Useful for general cleaning and rinsing steps, helping to distribute solutions and absorb excess liquids.
6. Service Cloth: A clean, lint-free cloth is vital for wiping down surfaces, drying, and applying protective finishes without leaving fibers or smudges.
7. Barricade Rust Protection Gun Wipes: The final, critical step in the bluing process is to protect the newly blued surface. Barricade Rust Protection is a premium rust preventative that forms a thin, protective film, sealing the blued surface against moisture and corrosion. These pre-saturated wipes make application simple and mess-free, ensuring your restored firearm stays protected for the long term.

Step-by-Step Guide: Re-Bluing Your Firearm with Perma Blue Paste

Achieving excellent results with the Birchwood Casey Perma Blue Gun Blue Kit is a meticulous process that requires patience and adherence to instructions. Here’s a detailed guide to walk you through each stage:

• Safety First: Always work in a well-ventilated area. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment, including chemical-resistant gloves and eye protection, as the solutions are corrosive. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Disassembly: Thoroughly disassemble your firearm, removing all wood, plastic, or non-steel components that should not be blued. Ensure all springs, pins, and internal mechanisms are removed from the metal parts to be blued.
• Surface Preparation – Removing Old Finish & Rust:
  1. Apply the Blue & Rust Remover to the metal surfaces using an applicator or sponge. Allow it to work for several minutes, or until the old bluing/rust begins to lift.
  2. Use a fine steel wool (0000 grade) or a brass brush to gently scrub away the loosened finish and rust. For stubborn rust, repeat the application.
  3. Rinse the parts thoroughly with cold water. Ensure no residue remains.
  4. Inspect the metal for any remaining rust, pitting, or old finish. The surface must be completely bare, clean, and free of imperfections for the bluing to take evenly. Light sanding (400-600 grit) may be necessary for deeper scratches or pits, followed by thorough cleaning to remove sanding dust.
• Degreasing – The Critical Step:
  1. With clean gloves, apply the Cleaner-Degreaser generously to all metal surfaces.
  2. Scrub with a clean sponge or a lint-free cloth, ensuring all oil, grease, and fingerprints are removed. The metal should have a dull, uniform finish and bead water evenly (the "water break test"). If water beads or separates, there's still oil present.
  3. Rinse thoroughly with cold running water. Do NOT touch the degreased metal with bare hands from this point forward, as body oils will interfere with the bluing process.
• Applying the Perma Blue Paste:
  1. Ensure the metal parts are completely dry. You can use a clean, lint-free cloth or a hairdryer on a cool setting.
  2. Using a bluing applicator, apply a thin, even coat of Perma Blue Paste Gun Blue to one small section of the firearm at a time. Work quickly and efficiently.
  3. Allow the paste to set for 30-60 seconds. You will see the metal begin to darken.
  4. Rinse the section immediately and thoroughly with cold running water. Use a clean sponge to gently wipe away any excess paste and residue while rinsing.
  5. Dry the section completely with a clean cloth or hairdryer.
  6. Repeat this process for subsequent coats. Apply 2-3 coats, rinsing and drying between each, until the desired depth of color is achieved. For best results, allow the blued parts to rest for several hours or overnight after the final coat to allow the finish to fully cure.
• Final Protection with Barricade:
  1. Once the blued finish is completely dry and cured, take one of the Barricade Rust Protection Gun Wipes.
  2. Wipe down all newly blued surfaces, ensuring an even, thin coat of rust preventative is applied. This step is crucial for sealing the finish and providing long-term corrosion resistance.
• Reassembly: Carefully reassemble your firearm, ensuring all components are correctly placed.

Achieving Optimal Results and Troubleshooting

• Consistency is Key: The most common reason for uneven bluing is inconsistent surface preparation or application. Take your time, ensure every inch is clean, and apply the paste evenly.
• Work in Small Sections: Don't try to blue an entire barrel at once. Divide larger parts into manageable sections to ensure the paste is applied and rinsed before it dries unevenly.
• Temperature Matters: Optimal results are usually achieved at room temperature (68-75°F / 20-24°C). Extreme cold or heat can affect the chemical reaction.
• Pitting and Imperfections: Remember, bluing is a surface treatment. It will not fill in deep scratches or pitting. For truly flawless results, these imperfections must be removed through sanding or polishing before bluing.
• Don't Over-Blue: Applying too many coats can sometimes lead to a reddish or dull finish. Aim for a deep, uniform black with 2-3 well-applied coats.
• "Tiger Stripes" or Streaks: This usually indicates incomplete degreasing or uneven rinsing. Re-clean and re-apply.

Maintaining Your Re-Blued Firearm

Once your firearm is re-blued with the Birchwood Casey Perma Blue Kit, ongoing maintenance is crucial to preserve the finish and prevent future rust. Regularly clean your firearm after use, especially if exposed to moisture or corrosive elements. Always finish with a light coat of a high-quality gun oil or rust preventative, such as the Barricade Rust Protection, to replenish the protective layer. Proper storage in a climate-controlled environment will also significantly extend the life of your blued finish.

Who Benefits Most from the Birchwood Casey Perma Blue Kit?

This kit is an indispensable tool for a wide range of firearm owners:

• Hobbyist Gunsmiths: For those who enjoy working on their own firearms, this kit provides a professional-grade solution for a critical aspect of firearm maintenance and restoration.
• Firearm Collectors: Ideal for restoring the appearance of older firearms or those with minor finish wear, helping to preserve their historical value.
• Hunters and Sport Shooters: Perfect for touching up wear spots on frequently used firearms, ensuring they remain protected against the elements encountered in the field or at the range.
• Anyone Concerned with Rust Prevention: Beyond aesthetics, the kit offers a practical solution for establishing or re-establishing a crucial rust-preventative layer on steel components.
• Budget-Conscious Owners: Provides a highly effective and affordable alternative to professional re-bluing services.

The Birchwood Casey Perma Blue Gun Blue Kit (UPC 029057137019) empowers you to take control of your firearm's appearance and protection. By following the detailed instructions and understanding the role of each component, you can achieve results that not only restore the beauty of your firearms but also significantly extend their lifespan by safeguarding against the destructive forces of rust and corrosion. This comprehensive solution, readily available at DEGuns, is truly a must-have for anyone serious about firearm care.

Product Specifications & Kit Contents

The Birchwood Casey Perma Blue Gun Blue Kit 13701 (UPC: 029057137019) is a comprehensive solution for firearm bluing and restoration.

Feature	Detail	Kit Contents (Quantity)
Brand	Birchwood Casey	Perma Blue Paste Gun Blue (2 oz)
Series	Paste Kit	Cleaner-Degreaser (3 oz)
Model	Perma Blue	Blue & Rust Remover (3 oz)
Suitable For	Firearms (Steel)	Bluing Applicators (Multiple)
Protects	Against Rust	Sponge (1)
Units/Pack	6	Service Cloth (1)
SKU	13701	Barricade Rust Protection Gun Wipes (1 pack)
UPC	029057137019