Cerakote is a relatively new kind of gun finishing and coating. It is the latest addition in the gun finishes category, which includes stainless steel and blue steel varieties. Cerakote finishes or coatings are being preferred for their durable features.
Similar to gun polishes, Cerakote coats impart protective covering and striking appearance to the guns. The Cerakote is not the only type of gun coating that has been introduced fairly recently; other finishing compounds such as Duracoat are also available nowadays.
In the past, the blue or stainless versions were only available. They kept the gun surface protected from dust and other atmospheric elements.
The bluing process entails treating the surface of iron, an alloy of carbon & iron, or steel with a catalyst for developing a layering of magnetite or black iron oxide as a kind of coating. Also, these guns need to be coated with water-resistant oil for keeping them moisture-free and preventing the formation of rust. However, the blued steel guns have to be re-blued occasionally. You can avail the services of gunsmiths for the purpose.
On the other hand, the surfaces of stainless steel guns are made of a thin layer of chromium oxide for preventing entry of oxygen; also, these polishes are passive in nature, which means that they are reactive to only air and water. As a result, the guns do not become rusted.
Where the Cerakote finishes are concerned, they are manufactured by the Cerakote Company. The word ‘kote’ has been derived from the word ‘coat.’ The term’ cera’ comes from the ceramic particles that are part of the finishing solution. Cerakote-based guns contain hardened surfaces that are resistance towards abrasion and scratching – in the event of the gun being dropped or mishandled.
The manufacturers may be contacted for purchasing Cerakote guns; they apply the finishing at the factory premises. Alternatively, the coating may be applied at home, or you can visit a gunsmith.
The Cerakote gallery provides the patrons a wide array of guns to choose from. The green or tactical tan ones, as seen in the Cerakote photos, are offered by the company. The clients are required to select the finishing they desire; they can also match their gun with other paraphernalia.
A distinguishing factor between the Cerakote-H finishes, the most common ones, is that the finishing has to be oven-cured: other guns require air-drying. However, the Cerakote-C models are air-cured, but these are less suitable for firearms.
You may find it interesting to learn that the sales of Cerakote coats are overtaking their competitors. People are applying the finish at home or are procuring from manufacturers. This type of coating is finding resonance with the gun-owners as they considered effective for keeping the gun unharmed from moisture or scratches, which is one of the important considerations where guns are concerned.
Opting for Cerakote firearms is considered prudent – it is being viewed as making an investing in a weapon as a means of keeping you protected. The naysayers may say that protect your gun for your protection. Furthermore, it gives your gun a cool outward appearance.
In the details mentioned above, we have seen various types of gun finishes. On a concluding note, it may be noted that durability is an important consideration where guns are concerned. Cerakote scores over the competition in this department, and is being recognized as the primary reason for its increasing popularity.