Protecting your airgun from the elements is critical for its longevity. Metals, specifically steel, can be very susceptible to moisture, salts, and other environmental conditions. Just one night out in humid South Carolina left one of our airguns a total mess with surface rust. For this reason, manufacturers employ different means to protect their products. Let’s take a look at some of the more popular options.
Bluing (or Blueing)
The most common and cost-effective way to protect steel is bluing. Bluing is a method of protecting the metal from rusting by using a black oxide coating. Without getting into the chemistry, the process changes the molecular structure of the metal and helps protect it from rusting. It’s not a perfect solution and still requires moisture-blocking agents like oil to work in conjunction with the bluing. The two common methods include cold bluing and hot bluing. Cold bluing is fairly simple and can be done easily and on small areas and imperfections as needed. Hot bluing is how many manufacturers protect entire batches of products all at once, as they can submerge multiple items into the heated solution simultaneously via automation. Back in the day, our impression of an airgun’s quality was often directly connected to how impressed we were with the bluing. Airguns like the Air Arms TX 200 set the bar for exceptional fit and finish. The bluing is so deep that you can get lost in it. Air Arms still has some one of the most attractive airgun finishes in the market.
Anodizing
Many modern airgun receivers and chassis are made from aluminum, which has unique challenges. Aluminum doesn’t “rust,” but corrosive elements like salt and moisture can certainly impact it. The primary method used to protect aluminum is Anodizing, an electrolytic process that helps create an oxide layer on the metal. The parts are submerged in an acid bath, which is then hit with an electric current. The natural reaction helps form the protective oxide layer. An additional fun benefit to the anodizing process is the ability to produce a wide range of colors. Airguns from AirForce are a great example. They have several models available in various colors, like black, blue, and red.
Plating
With all the benefits of anodizing, why don’t manufacturers just anodized steel? Well, because it would actually accelerate the corrosion they are hoping to prevent. That’s where plating comes into play. You can plate steel with more corrosive-resistant metals like zinc, nickel, or chrome to protect it from the elements. If you want to take things to the next level, then using stainless steel is the way to go. It’s highly resistant to rust and other corrosion.
Cerakote
The most recent method is called Cerakote. In this process, an extremely durable ceramic coating is applied to materials. Cerakoting is cool because it can be applied to almost anything, including metals, plastics, polymers, and even wood. It can be argued that Cerakoting is the best option for modern uses, provided you are willing to pay for it, as it is also the most expensive. It does not change the base material in the same way that the aforementioned chemical processes do. Cerakoting is a patented process, but it can be done by individuals using proper equipment. When performed correctly, the result is just as durable and professional as it is when done commercially.
Keep It Like New
Whether your airgun is blued, plated, anodized, or Cerakoted, the goal is to increase the longevity and durability of your prized possession. But you can’t just rely on the above methods. You need to do your part as well. Fortunately, we’ve posted several articles outlining some simple tips and tricks to keep your airguns operating in top form. Please take a look at them here. And if you have more questions, then please don’t hesitate to reach out and let us know. We are always here to help.
