[Hooch]

Anyone ever tried powder coating? Just completed 2 builds & I'm thinking about trying this process. Don't know how the barrels will hold up, but at least it should be better than a spray bomb.

 

[Sangrun Hunter]

Go for it and please do tell us how it works. I've thought above get the kit to do small parts at home because we have an extra oven in our basement that I could use to do a receiver and small parts in.

For automotive apps powder coat holds up great and would be awesome for a firearm.

 

[7.62x39]

I have done a lot of powder coating over the years on race car and motorcycle parts.
I have not used it on a AK build, but I would not be afraid to try it, it's pretty tough stuff.

 

[yosuthnmasa]

Max, can you explain the process as well as what materials and equipment would be needed for a home builder?

 

[sks_hunter]

I think HF sells a small version of a powder applicator...It sure is really tough stuff, other than maybe being too thick??? I don't know why it wouldn't be a good choice...
http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/Displayitem.taf?itemnumber=42802

 

[Rhino_66]

There's also a version sold by Eastwood Company. They have a lot of powders available, including high temperature satin black.

http://www.eastwoodco.com/jump.jsp?itemType=CATEGORY&itemID=458

The coating can be thick enough to cause problems if you lay it down heavily. Just like spray paints you can go over areas with a little less powder to adjust the thickness, like on the rails.

The Eastwood option is a little more expensive, but it comes with an 8oz can of gloss black.

There are a few other sources for powders that will work with these systems. If you search you may be able to find something close to gunmetal blue metallic. You may have to mix a couple colors of powder to get the effect but a powdercoated "blued" finish would be incredible looking and durable.

http://www.sotar.com/images/color_pallet.jpg

Powdercoating shops may be able to help you find a mix of colors that resembles hot blued steel.

 

[scubadvr]

I have done a lot of powder coating over the years on race car and motorcycle parts.
I have not used it on a AK build, but I would not be afraid to try it, it's pretty tough stuff.

Max do you not have to worry about thickness, and changing the size of holes, rails, etc. Jack

 

[sks_hunter]

these guys build custom rifles... although they're bolts.... they don't look like cheapos, and I have heard of them, so if it's good enough for these guys, maybe it would work out well, as long as the thickness wasn't an issue. does anybody know how thick a decent coat of this stuff is???
I'll research...http://www.rockymountainrifles.com/powdercoating.html

 

[sks_hunter]

http://www.powdercoating.org/industry/faq.htm
http://www.finishing.com/165/84.html
http://www.arizonapowder.com/allaboutpc.html