Duracoat?

I have a pistol on order (baby eagle 9mm 'fullsize' steel) and it will be my first pistol. I have shot many but this will be the first I can call MINE. I went wrong when purchasing my first rifle a few years back and ended up trading it in to buy a .300 Weatherby Magnum. I didn't want to make the same mistake in a handgun selection so I decided to save a few extra paychecks and get what I really wanted. (I'm a young one / takes a while when working + attending school)

Background set aside, MY QUESTION lies in information about Duracoat. The ONLY negative review I could find when researching the baby eagle pistol (in 9mm, .45's got horrid reviews all around) was the finish on them. Aparently they show wear very easily. After discussing the matter with my dad (sniper208 on these forums fyi) he mentioned Duracoat. It sounds and looks great, HOWEVER they assume everyone visiting their website knows about the product, as they present NO information on product function. What exactly does Duracoat do to a firearm other than make it look 'pretty'? And what can be expected when using the product for a pistol and quite possibly a rifle?

- Mercalf

Check here:
http://www.surplusrifle.com/reviews2...coat/index.asp

Frequently Asked Questions About Duracoat.

As an average gun owner, can I properly apply DuraCoat products without training?

Absolutely! DuraCoat is extremely easy to apply. Anyone can do it. DuraCoat was designed for the average gun owner. Preheating, baking and blasting are not required. Expensive, space consuming equipment is not needed. Simply clean and degrease the surface prior to application. If you don't have access to an airbrush, HVLP spray gun or conventional spray gun, our EZ Airbrush (#1SAB) is all the equipment needed and sells for less than $25.00.

If I have a problem applying DuraCoat, what can I do?

If you need assistance of any kind, call 1-800-830-6677 Monday through Friday 6:00AM to 8:00PM (CST) and Saturday 10:00AM to 6:00PM (CST). A team of DuraCoat technicians are available to assist you with all aspects of the DuraCoat process. From selecting the most suitable DuraCoat product, color or pattern for your application to troubleshooting prep or finishing situations, we are here to help you.

How durable is DuraCoat?

DuraCoat is permanent. With normal use, a firearm finished with DuraCoat will last several lifetimes.

What is DuraCoat?

DuraCoat is a two part chemical coating. Unlike other firearm finishes, DuraCoat was created specifically for firearms. Other firearm finishes are "spin-off's" from other industries.

Is DuraCoat Teflon based?

No. Teflon is a lubricating coating which is great for internals, but will not wear as well as DuraCoat on the exterior surface of a firearm. DuraCoat's combination of elasticity and hardness creates a finish impervious to impact, scratching and the elements. Some users say DuraCoat displays some lubricating qualities, but this phenomenon was never intended when DuraCoat was created.

Do I have to be a certified finisher to purchase DuraCoat products?

Absolutely not! DuraCoat can be purchased by anyone. DuraCoat was designed for gun owners with little or no firearm finishing skills.

How do I apply DuraCoat?

DuraCoat can be applied by airbrush, conventional spray gun, or HVLP spray gun.

Can DuraCoat be brushed on?

No, absolutely not. DuraCoat is for spray application only.

If DuraCoat is so easy to apply, why do you offer workshops?

The workshops focus on special prep and application techniques for the commercial DuraCoat finisher.

Will DuraCoat adhere to hard coat anodizing and Parkerizing?

DuraCoat loves hard coat anodizing and Parkerizing as a base. Both processes leave a good rooting surface for DuraCoat.

How much DuraCoat is needed to finish one rifle?

A 4 oz. container of DuraCoat will coat 1-2 long guns or 2-4 handguns.

Are the Peel 'n Spray templates reusable?

Yes. Most patterns can be used up to 6 times. The MirageFlage pattern is difficult to reuse because of the many angles. To reuse the template, remove from the firearm and place on wax paper for future use.

Do I need a special degreaser?

Yes. Some degreasers, especially those used in the automotive industry, can leave a residue. This residue will form a barrier between the surface and DuraCoat causing a coating failure. We manufacture TruStrip degreaser solely for the firearms industry. TruStrip is capable of cleaning the contaminates commonly found on and in firearms and will not leave a residue.

Do I need a special solvent to clean my airbrush or spray gun?

Lacquer thinner will work, but clean your equipment with DuraCoat reducer occasionally. This will keep your airbrush or spray gun in top working condition.

Is reducing DuraCoat required?

Depending on your spray equipment, spray technique, climate and environment your DuraCoat may or may not need reducing. If your DuraCoat does not lay down smooth on the surface of your firearm, it most likely needs to be reduced. Always have some DuraCoat Reducer on hand as it may be required on given days due to weather conditions. DuraCoat Retarder Reducer cures problems normally occurring in high humidity weather. One of these high humidity problems called "blushing" makes the DuraCoat appear cloudy. Another called "dry spray" occurs when some of the DuraCoat dries before it reaches the firearm and causes a rough or dusty surface.

Can I blend DuraCoat colors together?

Yes. All DuraCoat colors can be intermixed. With a handful of standard DuraCoat colors, you can create an infinite number of colors by blending them.

When is DuraCoat fully cured?

DuraCoat is dry to the touch in 20 minutes, can be handled in 1 hour and is ready for use overnight. Although DuraCoat will gain most of its final hardness, elasticity and chemical resistance over a 2-3 week period, time will continue to enhance DuraCoat's characteristics over a lifetime. DuraCoat, like fine wine, gets better with age. As we say, "DuraCoat wears in, not out."

How do I apply DuraCoat to wood?

Degrease and lightly sand wood surfaces. Use DuraFil to remove any scratches and dings, then apply DuraCoat. Allow to dry overnight. Do not bake.

I hunt along saltwater. Will DuraCoat withstand the salty environment?

Certainly. DuraCoat is well suited for salty environments. One of DuraCoat's attributes is its extreme ability to resist salt corrosion. A firearm coated with DuraCoat simply will not rust...EVER!

What is the shelf life of DuraCoat?

The shelf life of DuraCoat is 12-18 months if properly sealed and stored in a cool, dark place. The shelf life of DuraCoat hardener is 6 months, but can be extended by sealing it in a zip lock bag and placing it in a refrigerator.

Will DuraCoat burn off my barrel?

DuraCoat can withstand temperatures as high has 500-600 degrees F. With "normal" shooting, your barrel will never get close to being that hot. If you are fortunate enough to own a transferable machine gun, or if you like to "blaze" with your semi-auto, do not put DuraCoat on your barrel, as your barrel temperature will rise to over 1,000 degrees F. In those cases, use DuraHeat. Our DuraHeat coating can handle temperatures up to 1,800 degrees F.

How easy is DuraCoat removed?

Not easy at all. The elastic nature of DuraCoat resists blasting. A qualified individual, with the proper blast media, can safely remove DuraCoat without damaging the surface of the firearm. Be careful. In most cases, we recommend lightly blasting the surface, being cautious not to remove any DuraCoat. Just "beat up" the DuraCoat giving it "tooth" so your new application of DuraCoat has something to adhere to.

Which is more durable, DuraCoat or DuraBake?

Both DuraCoat and DuraBake are extremely durable. The advantage of DuraBake is its availability in a convenient aerosol can. The advantage of DuraCoat is it does not have to be baked and is available in an incredible number of colors.

How come other firearm finish manufacturers boast hardness, but make no mention of elasticity?

In the case of firearm finishes, a common misconception is "harder is better". This is faulty "old school thinking". Hardness means brittle and brittle means chipping. DuraCoat, being elastic, will not chip. If your DuraCoat chips, it means you have a preparation problem. Most likely, the surface was not clean. Elasticity provides protection by "giving" when confronted with impact. Elasticity also helps prevent scratches and mars.

How do I become a certified DuraCoat finisher?

Generally you must attend one or more DuraCoat workshops.

Why are some certified finishers listed on your website?

Most certified DuraCoat finishers are employed by manufacturers and gun shops or have contracts or working relationships with various entities. The certified finishers listed on our website are hoping to acquire DuraCoat finishing work by having a presence on the DuraCoat site.

Does LCW still offer finishing service?

Yes, call 1-800-830-6677 for a quote.

What is the turnaround time if I send a firearm to LCW to be refinished?

Generally the turnaround time is 2-3 weeks. At times, we get extremely busy and the time gets extended. When this happens, we notify our customers.

How can I qualify for Dealer Pricing?

Send us your FFL if you are a firearms dealer. Send us your business license if you operate a business other than firearms sales.

Does LCW offer Law Enforcement Pricing on DuraCoat Products?

Yes, send a department letterhead requesting Law Enforcement Pricing.

Quote:

I hunt along saltwater. Will DuraCoat withstand the salty environment?

Certainly. DuraCoat is well suited for salty environments. One of DuraCoat's attributes is its extreme ability to resist salt corrosion. A firearm coated with DuraCoat simply will not rust...EVER!

Exactly what I was looking for, thank you very much :smile:

If you're DIY:
1) Degrease thoroughly. Detail strip, degrease. I usually put my parts in the oven on "warm" (about 120 degrees) for 1/2 hour, let them cool, look for oil seepage, and degrease again, before applying.
2) Use an airbrush set, even a cheap one. Soooooo much cleaner in applying, than the spray can.
3) Be sure it is fully cured before re-lubing and reassembly. You can go with letting it sit overnight, and putting it back together, but I've been much happier with either a week of room-temp curing, or sitting in the oven (again) at 125 for 2-4 hours.

Good answers all! QK, you are a scholar indeed. Thanks for answering his question as thoroughly as you've answered mine since I joined.

Nice review!

I just got my W-2 back. If Im lucky, I will get the Duracoat setup, and larger sights for my G.I. 1911.

Aw Shucks...don't mention it. :biggrin2: