Firearm Post-Service Care
Maximizing the longevity and performance of your refinished firearm.
At Acoating, our expertise extends beyond the application of Cerakote finishes to guiding you on the best care practices for your newly refinished firearm. Proper maintenance is essential for ensuring the durability and performance of your firearm's finish. This guide serves as a resource for our customers to help maintain their firearms in pristine condition after refinishing.
Post-Service Care
Understanding how to maintain your firearm after it's been serviced is crucial for its longevity and performance. Here, we provide guidance on caring for your firearm following Cerakote or Duracoat finishes.
Maintaining Your Refinished Firearm
Maintain the exterior as you would a blued firearm. While Cerakote, Gunkote and Duracoat finishes resist fingerprints and rust, proper care ensures a lasting appearance. All firearm cleaners are deemed safe for the surface (Per The Coating Manufactures/Test Results). A break-in period of 200 to 300 rounds with quality gun oil or grease is recommended for firearms completely refinished.
Immediate Use After Finishing
Cerakote finishes are ready immediately after application due to the baking process. Duracoat, being chemically cured, advises careful handling within the first 24 hours, achieving full cure in 3 to 4 weeks.
Is Cerakote or Duracoat Permanent?
No firearm finish is permanent. Cerakote, however, leads in wear resistance, saltwater endurance, and minimal thickness, which doesn't affect tight tolerances significantly.
Break-In Procedure
After refinishing, a firearm may require a break-in process, especially for tighter fitting guns. Firing 200-300 rounds with quality gun oil is recommended to help mate all surfaces properly, with a thorough cleaning recommended post-break-in.
Temperature Tolerance
Cerakote H-Series: Can withstand up to 500 degrees F, suitable for most firearms and provides a durable finish.
Cerakote E-Series: Can withstand up to 1,800 degrees F, ideal for parts exposed to extreme heat, such as barrels and suppressors.
Duracoat: Recommended for less intense use, with a tolerance of up to 600 degrees F.