If you want it to look like stainless, go with Electroless nickel. I've done the plating for years in another life and the finish will only be as good as the prep work. Also, depending on the plating, you may throw components out of spec as a good nickel finish can be as thick as 5 mils. The NP3 adds teflon to the mix and that will also increase part thicknesses. Prior to any refinishing, get good solid pictures of any engraving such as roll marks, barrel markings and the Serial number in case they need to be re-etched into the finish. Check with the Feds in regards to remarking the serial number as I don't know the laws governing that.
Is this foolish?
My 3” Model 65 was given to me, terribly corroded, about 13 years ago. Zero cost. It was my first handgun, having grown up with rifles and shotguns.
I spent a lot of time trying to turn it from brown back to silver and also remove the pitting. Finally got it looking pretty good, but I also wore through some of the nickel plating, so now it wants to rust even more in a few spots where the steel is exposed.
I’ve considered a Cerakote job, but it just doesn’t feel right to me. I learned about Robar Guns refinishing and am interested in their Electroless Nickel plating as well as the NP3.
The obvious problem is that I would spend $345-$410 plus shipping on a gun that would never be worth that much. I have better ones now, but I’m really attached to the gun, it shoots great, and I’d like it to look nice.
Between the two proposed finishes I like the low-friction qualities of the NP3, and the slightly greater luster of the Electroless Nickel. Anyone have experience with these? Opinions?
I know some of you will offer me a few bucks for the gun to put me out of my misery, but seriously, is it foolish to spend that much on a cheap gun?
I spent a lot of time trying to turn it from brown back to silver and also remove the pitting. Finally got it looking pretty good, but I also wore through some of the nickel plating, so now it wants to rust even more in a few spots where the steel is exposed.
I’ve considered a Cerakote job, but it just doesn’t feel right to me. I learned about Robar Guns refinishing and am interested in their Electroless Nickel plating as well as the NP3.
The obvious problem is that I would spend $345-$410 plus shipping on a gun that would never be worth that much. I have better ones now, but I’m really attached to the gun, it shoots great, and I’d like it to look nice.
Between the two proposed finishes I like the low-friction qualities of the NP3, and the slightly greater luster of the Electroless Nickel. Anyone have experience with these? Opinions?
I know some of you will offer me a few bucks for the gun to put me out of my misery, but seriously, is it foolish to spend that much on a cheap gun?
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