Birchwood Casey Complete Perma Blue Liquid Gun Blue Kit

It may be of interest to wildfowlers to see my attempt at using the above kit, my overall impression is that the kit can provide excellent results for a very favourable price if instructions are followed to the letter. As with any such job preparation is the key to a good finish and certainly extra time should be taken during this part of the simple procedure. I found that I had to apply a couple of extra coats to receive the finish I preferred but that was my personal preference. After trial and error I found it easier to apply the blue turning the barrels a full 360 degrees and all the time working quickly along the length. Applying the blue along the full length and then turning barrels over to do the other side seemed to be problematic with runs, however they were easy to tidy up on the following coat.

Before Application

After Application

Conclusion

Generally speaking, I'm very pleased with the final result although having had a go I'm sure I could do better next time, you learn from your mistakes as they say and the initial experience would allow me to do it again with more confidence. I did not achieve 100% even coverage over the full length of the barrel, the breech end of the barrel is perfect whereas the muzzle end could have been a bit better, but overall a vast improvement on what they were and I'm sure it will give many more years service. My tips would be the following :-

  1. If you want a professional job go to a gunsmith. Having said that I'm very happy with the result and if you are a DIY enthusiast, have a go.

  2. Obviously a job for outdoors or a workshop, so pick a warm day, the heat will help dry the barrels between each coat which is extremely important. You could also use a hair dryer, but do not attempt in the kitchen!

  3. Be near a supply of cold running water - Tap or hosepipe.

  4. Have a good supply of drying cloths and absorbent towels ready.

  5. When you think you have prepared the surface enough, carry on a bit longer.

  6. Apply coats quickly and confidently and rinse off within the minute as described.

  7. It is crucial you do not touch with fingers once degreased so have a good supply of surgical gloves to hand.

Best price I found was on ebay at £11.95 plus £2.95 post and packing.