Choosing the right cold blue for firearms involves balancing ease of use, finish durability, and how well the product prevents future rust. This guide highlights reliable cold bluing options and explains what to look for when touching up scratches or rebluing metal surfaces. Each product below offers a distinct approach—from all-inclusive kits to simple liquid blues—so shooters can find a solution that fits their maintenance routine and firearm type.
| Product | Brand | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Birchwood Casey PERMA BLUE LIQUID Air Gun Shotgun Blueing 90ml | Birchwood Casey | Fast-acting liquid blue for a non-streaky blue-black finish |
| Birchwood Casey Perma Blue Liquid Gun Blue Finishing All-Inclusive Kit | Birchwood Casey | All-in-one kit with cleaner, degreaser, and liquid blue |
| Brownells Oxpho-Blue Creme Gun Blue | Brownells | Creme formula with long work time and durable finish |
| Birchwood Casey E & F Super Blue Liquid Gun Blue 90 Ml | Birchwood Casey | Liquid blue option for precise, uniform results |
| Oxpho Blue Liquid Gun Blue 4oz | Generic | Professional cold bluing with good coverage |
Note: This article presents objective information about commonly used cold blues. Always follow manufacturer instructions and take appropriate safety precautions when working with gun finishes.
Birchwood Casey PERMA BLUE LIQUID Gun Blueing
Birchwood Casey’s PERMA BLUE LIQUID provides a fast-acting blueing process suitable for metal surfaces that are clean and rust-free. It is designed to deliver a non-streaky, even blue-black finish on steel, with faster darkening on bare metal. This option is positioned as a touch-up solution for scratches and minor wear on many guns, including air rifles and shotguns. Always ensure surfaces are properly degreased and corrosion-free before application to maximize uniformity and longevity of the finish.
Birchwood Casey Perma Blue Liquid Gun Blue Kit
This all-inclusive kit from Birchwood Casey includes Perma Blue liquid and a degreaser to prep the metal. The kit is designed to deliver a professional-looking finish with a non-sticky blue-black appearance. The included cleaner helps remove oils, residues, and oxidation, creating a clean canvas for the blueing. It’s suitable for completing a complete refinishing or rapid touch-ups on a range of firearms.
Brownells Oxpho-Blue Creme Gun Blue
Oxpho-Blue Creme is a popular cold bluing creme that provides a durable finish with extended work time, reducing run-off and evaporation. The creme form allows careful application to achieve even coverage and a consistent blue-black tone, typically resisting wear from handling and cleaning activities. Users should apply thinner coats for touch-ups and build to the desired darkness. It is noted for forming a phosphate-like surface that helps minimize post-bluing rust.
Birchwood Casey E & F Super Blue Liquid Gun Blue 90 Ml
E & F Super Blue is another Birchwood Casey option that emphasizes liquid blueing with predictable results. The product is described as a high-quality solution for achieving smooth, uniform blueing on steel surfaces after proper cleaning. It suits users who prefer a straightforward liquid application and are working on refinishing or touch-ups where control over the finish is important.
Oxpho Blue Liquid Gun Blue 4oz
Oxpho Blue is a versatile liquid blue option that provides professional cold bluing for firearms. The 4-ounce bottle offers enough material for multiple touch-ups or a complete small- or medium-sized firearm project. It is designed for quick application to steel surfaces and aims to produce a durable, even finish with good corrosion resistance when properly cleaned and dried before the bluing process.
Brownells Formula 44/40 Instant Gun Blue Creme
Brownells Formula 44/40 Instant Gun Blue Creme offers a quick, durable cold bluing option in creme form for steel finishes. While noted as hazardous in product listings, the creme provides a robust coating that can be built up with successive thin coats. It’s suitable for professionals who prefer precise, controlled application and are comfortable handling hazardous materials in a well-ventilated workspace.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
- Finish type and darkness: Liquid blues generally yield more uniform finishes and are faster to apply, while cremes offer slower work time and thicker coverage for buildup.
- Preparation requirements: Most cold blues require thorough rust removal and degreasing. Some kits include cleaners, making prep easier, especially for touch-ups.
- Durability and wear resistance: Consider the expected wear on the firearm’s surface (case, holster rubbing, cleaning) and choose a product designed to resist that wear.
- Metal compatibility: Some finishes work best on carbon steels; stainless steel may not accept certain blue finishes uniformly. Check product notes for material compatibility.
- Safety and handling: Many formulas involve hazardous components; follow safety guidelines, use gloves, and work in a well-ventilated area.
- Application control: Creme formulas tend to offer more precise control for small touch-ups, while liquids can cover larger areas quickly but may require longer drying times to avoid streaks.
- Maintenance planning: Regular light touch-ups can extend the life of a blue finish, while a complete reblue may be needed for heavily worn surfaces.
- Kit contents: All-inclusive kits streamline the process with degreaser and cleaner included, which can save time but may limit customization of the prep steps.
- Safety disposal: Some products are labeled hazardous; ensure proper disposal and storage in compliance with local regulations.
- Cost-to-value balance: Compare bottle sizes, coverage, and reusability across products to determine the best value for your typical maintenance workload.
When selecting a cold blue for firearms, it helps to align the choice with your experience level, the firearm’s material, and how you plan to maintain the finish over time. For quick touch-ups, a liquid blue from Birchwood Casey may be convenient. For a complete refinishing workflow, an all-inclusive kit can provide the essential cleaners and blues in one package. Always prioritize safer handling and consistent surface preparation to achieve an even, durable blue finish.