How to Refinish a Gun Receiver

Long term exposure to the elements or lack of care causes the finish on firearms to deteriorate. Oxidation, nicks and scratches gradually reduce the value of the firearm and will eventually cause it to fail. Gunsmiths and manufacturers offer refinishing services to restore firearms to their original condition.

Things You'll Need

  • Birchwood Casey Cleaner-Degreaser
  • Several clean cloths
  • Water
  • Birchwood Casey Blue & Rust Remover
  • Steel wool
  • Birchwood Casey Perma Blue
  • Gun oil
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Instructions

    • 1

      Ensure the safety of the firearm. With the muzzle pointed in a safe direction, remove any magazines, open the action and ensure that the chamber is empty.

    • 2

      Disassemble the firearm. Following the instructions of the manufacturer, strip the firearm down the receiver and barrel.

    • 3

      Clean and degrease the firearm. Wet a section of clean cloth with the Birchwood Casey Cleaner-Degreaser. Apply the cleaner to all of the exterior metal parts of the firearm. Use the water to rinse the solution off of the firearm and dry with another clean cloth.

    • 4

      Remove the existing finish. Soak a section of cloth with the Birchwood Casey Blue and Rust Remover. Apply the solution to the firearm and allow to set for two minutes. Use a pad of steel wool to remove the old finish and any rust. Repeat steps 3 and 4 as necessary and use a clean cloth to dry the firearm.

    • 5

      Apply the new finish. Saturate a piece of cloth with the Birchwood Casey Perma Blue and apply the solution to the exterior metal of the firearm. Allow to set for one minute, rinse with water and dry. Lightly polish the surface with a piece of steel wool and repeat until the desired shade is achieved.

    • 6

      Apply a thin layer of gun oil to all of the metal surfaces with the new finish and allow the firearm to set for 24 hours before reassembling.