Birchwood Casey Perma Blue Paste Gun Blue Finishing Kit Review

What Makes the Birchwood Casey Perma Blue Paste Gun Blue Finishing Kit Click?

For anyone who owns firearms, maintaining their aesthetic and protective finish is a perpetual consideration. My particular need arose after a frustrating incident involving a dropped rifle scope mount that left a noticeable scrape on the receiver of a cherished bolt-action rifle. The damage wasn’t deep enough to affect function, but the unsightly blemish was a constant reminder of my carelessness. I considered sending the rifle for professional rebluing, but the cost and turnaround time were prohibitive. That’s when I turned my attention to the Birchwood Casey Perma Blue Paste Gun Blue Finishing Kit.

This kit promises a user-friendly approach to gun bluing, aiming to help enthusiasts perform touch-ups or even a full refinish at home. Upon unboxing, the immediate impression was one of practicality and completeness. The components felt reasonably well-made, suggesting a deliberate effort by Birchwood Casey to provide a functional solution. While I briefly looked at liquid bluing solutions from other brands, the appeal of a paste formulation for better control over application, and the inclusion of all necessary prep and finishing agents in one package, steered me toward this specific kit. My initial reaction was a mix of cautious optimism and eagerness to see if it could indeed restore the marred finish on my rifle.

Real-World Testing: Putting Birchwood Casey Perma Blue Paste Gun Blue Finishing Kit to the Test

My primary testing environment was my home workshop and a controlled bench setup. I needed to address a specific patch of exposed metal on my rifle receiver, roughly the size of a quarter. The process began with a thorough cleaning, as instructed. The included Cleaner-Degreaser proved effective at removing any oils or residue, a crucial first step for proper bluing adhesion.

The application of the Perma Blue Paste itself was surprisingly manageable. Unlike liquids that can run easily, the paste allowed for more deliberate application with the provided sponge applicator. I worked in thin, even coats, allowing each to dry slightly before applying the next, as per the instructions. The paste developed a dark, matte finish fairly quickly.

After several applications and achieving a color match that was close to the original factory blue, I moved to the finishing stages. The Blue & Rust Remover was essential for neutralizing the bluing process and removing any excess that hadn’t fully adhered. The Barricade Rust Protection Gun Wipes provided a final layer of defense against future corrosion.

First Use Experience

The first application was an exercise in careful patience. I found that working in good lighting was essential to ensure even coverage and to spot any missed areas or streaks. The paste’s viscosity made it easier to control than I anticipated, though I did notice a slight learning curve in feathering the edges to blend with the surrounding original finish. The overall experience was less messy than I had feared.

I did encounter a minor surprise when I initially applied the paste a bit too thickly in one spot. It developed a slightly darker, almost patchy look. This reinforced the instruction to apply in thin, consistent layers. The 00 Steel Wool Pads were then invaluable for gently evening out the area before reapplication.

Extended Use & Reliability

Several months have passed since I used the Birchwood Casey Perma Blue Paste Gun Blue Finishing Kit on my rifle. The touched-up area has held up remarkably well under normal handling and storage. There have been no signs of flaking, peeling, or significant fading, even after a couple of range trips where the rifle was exposed to varying humidity.

The durability seems to be directly tied to the initial preparation and application. Areas where I was meticulous with cleaning and used thin coats have maintained their appearance. The Barricade Rust Protection clearly plays a significant role in preventing any immediate rust concerns. Compared to some generic cold bluing pens I’ve used in the past, this paste kit offers a far more robust and aesthetically pleasing result that seems to integrate better with the existing finish.

Breaking Down the Features of Birchwood Casey Perma Blue Paste Gun Blue Finishing Kit

This comprehensive kit is designed to equip users with everything needed for a gun bluing project, from initial prep to final protection. It aims to replicate a professional-looking finish through accessible means. The inclusion of multiple products in a single package addresses the common issue of having to source individual chemicals and applicators.

The core of the kit is the 2 oz Perma Blue Paste Gun Blue. This formulation is designed for a deep, dense blue finish, differentiating it from faster-acting liquid alternatives which can sometimes be more prone to streaking if not applied perfectly. The paste offers a slower, more controlled chemical reaction, allowing for more user intervention and adjustment during the process.

Specifications

• Perma Blue Paste Gun Blue (2 oz): This is the primary bluing agent. Its paste form allows for controlled application, preventing excessive runoff and enabling users to build the desired finish in layers.
  • Why it matters: The paste consistency is key for detailed work and touch-ups, offering better control than liquid bluing.
• Blueing Applicators Sponge: These small, dense sponges are designed for applying the paste evenly. They are intended to be disposable, ensuring no cross-contamination between applications or different guns.
  • Why it matters: Proper applicators are crucial for achieving a uniform finish without introducing lint or streaks.
• Service Cloth: A soft, lint-free cloth for wiping down surfaces and removing excess chemicals.
  • Why it matters: Using the correct cloth prevents introducing new scratches or lint that could mar the finish.
• Cleaner-Degreaser (3 oz): A strong cleaning solution essential for preparing the metal surface. It removes oils, grease, and any contaminants that could interfere with the bluing process.
  • Why it matters: A perfectly clean surface is paramount for bluing to adhere correctly and develop evenly.
• Barricade Rust Protection Gun Wipes: These pre-moistened wipes provide a protective barrier against rust. They offer a convenient way to apply a final protective coat after bluing is complete.
  • Why it matters: This adds a critical layer of defense, ensuring the newly blued finish remains protected from the elements.
• Blue & Rust Remover (3 oz): Used to neutralize the bluing action and remove any residual chemicals or unwanted rust. This step is vital for stopping the bluing process at the desired point and ensuring a stable finish.
  • Why it matters: It effectively halts the chemical reaction and cleans up any unintended bluing or rust.
• Complete Instruction Guide: A detailed manual outlining the steps for preparation, application, and finishing.
  • Why it matters: Clear instructions are indispensable, especially for those new to gun finishing.
• 00 Steel Wool Pads: Fine-grade steel wool used for very light abrasion, surface prep, and sometimes for removing excess bluing.
  • Why it matters: Its fine grade allows for gentle polishing and smoothing without scratching the base metal.

Performance & Functionality

The Perma Blue Paste Gun Blue Finishing Kit performs its primary function of restoring or creating a blued finish quite effectively, especially for minor repairs and touch-ups. The paste formulation offers a noticeable advantage in control, allowing for more deliberate application compared to the often volatile nature of liquid bluing agents. When used as directed, it produces a deep, consistent blue-black finish that, when blended carefully, can be remarkably close to a factory original.

The main strength lies in its ability to create a durable cold blue finish that holds up well to handling. However, achieving a completely flawless, mirror-like finish identical to high-end factory hot bluing is likely beyond its scope; the result is typically a more matte or satin appearance. For its intended purpose of repair and cosmetic enhancement, its functionality is excellent, though perfectionists might find minor imperfections depending on their skill and the original finish.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Birchwood Casey Perma Blue Paste Gun Blue Finishing Kit is fundamentally utilitarian, focused on delivering results rather than aesthetic flair. The packaging is straightforward, with each component clearly labeled. The paste itself comes in a user-friendly container that allows for easy access with the applicators.

Ergonomically, the kit is designed for ease of use by a home user. The sponge applicators are simple to hold and maneuver, and the included cloths are soft and manageable. The real work in terms of ergonomics falls on the user, as careful application requires steady hands and good posture, especially when working on intricate parts of a firearm. The clear instructions, if followed diligently, mitigate any significant learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

The durability of the finish achieved with this kit is impressive for a cold bluing process. When properly applied and followed up with the Barricade Rust Protection, the blued surface resists minor scratches and wear that would quickly reveal bare metal on lesser finishes. The longevity seems directly proportional to the thoroughness of the prep work and the number of thin coats applied.

Maintenance of the blued surface is straightforward, primarily involving regular cleaning and reapplication of a rust preventative like the Barricade. The kit components themselves, particularly the paste and liquids, have a decent shelf life if stored properly in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The sponges and cloths are consumables.

Accessories and Customization Options

The kit comes with a well-chosen set of essential accessories, making it a truly all-in-one solution for many bluing needs. The Blueing Applicators Sponge, Service Cloth, and 00 Steel Wool Pads are critical for proper application and refinement. The inclusion of both a Cleaner-Degreaser and Blue & Rust Remover ensures the metal is properly prepared and the bluing process is controlled.

While the kit itself is not designed for extensive customization in terms of the bluing process, the quality of the finished product can be enhanced by user skill and attention to detail. For more advanced users, understanding how to blend the new blue into existing finishes or how to achieve different depths of color through multiple applications are forms of ‘customization’ through technique. Additional steel wool grades or fine-grit sandpaper could be used for very specific surface prep, but this is beyond the scope of the included items.

Pros and Cons of Birchwood Casey Perma Blue Paste Gun Blue Finishing Kit

Who Should Buy Birchwood Casey Perma Blue Paste Gun Blue Finishing Kit?

This kit is an excellent choice for firearm owners who want to perform minor repairs or touch-ups on worn or scratched blued surfaces. It’s perfect for enthusiasts who have scuffs, light scratches, or areas where the original bluing has faded and want to restore the aesthetic appeal without sending their firearm to a gunsmith. It’s also suitable for those looking to give a more uniform finish to custom parts or older firearms that have seen better days.

Individuals who need a high-gloss, factory-perfect mirror finish might want to explore professional hot bluing services instead. Those who are uncomfortable with meticulous preparation or fine application techniques might also struggle to achieve the best results. For users needing to blue parts for critical, high-stress applications where extreme durability is paramount, professional bluing might be a safer bet, though this kit is very robust for its class.

Essential complementary items would include good quality nitrile gloves for protection, safety glasses, and a well-lit, well-ventilated workspace. Having some masking tape available can also be helpful for protecting areas adjacent to the repair zone.

Conclusion on Birchwood Casey Perma Blue Paste Gun Blue Finishing Kit

The Birchwood Casey Perma Blue Paste Gun Blue Finishing Kit is a remarkably effective and accessible solution for a common firearm maintenance challenge. It delivers on its promise of allowing enthusiasts to achieve a durable and aesthetically pleasing blued finish at home, with the paste formulation offering a tangible advantage in control for touch-ups and detailed work. While it won’t replicate a high-end, mirror-like factory finish, it provides a very respectable satin or matte blue that significantly improves the appearance and protective qualities of a firearm.

Considering its price point and the comprehensive nature of the kit, the value proposition is exceptionally strong. It empowers users to tackle cosmetic imperfections themselves, saving considerable time and money compared to professional services. For anyone looking to breathe new life into a scratched or worn blued firearm, I would wholeheartedly recommend this kit. It strikes an excellent balance between ease of use, performance, and affordability, making it a staple for any home firearm toolkit.