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Perma Blue vs. Super Blue: Which Gun Bluing Reigns Supreme?

When it comes to restoring or customizing the finish on your firearm, choosing the right bluing solution is crucial. Two popular contenders in the market are Birchwood Casey’s Perma Blue and Super Blue. The debate of perma blue vs super blue is a common one among gun enthusiasts, restorers, and gunsmiths alike. Both promise a deep, protective blue-black finish, but understanding their nuances is critical to achieving the desired results. This comprehensive guide will explore the differences, advantages, and disadvantages of each product, providing you with the knowledge to make an informed decision for your specific project. We’ll delve into their chemical compositions, application processes, durability, and suitability for various types of steel, offering a thorough comparison that goes beyond surface-level observations. Ultimately, our aim is to empower you with the expertise to select the optimal bluing solution, ensuring a professional and lasting finish for your firearm.

Understanding Cold Bluing and Its Importance

Before diving into the specifics of Perma Blue and Super Blue, it’s essential to understand the concept of cold bluing. Unlike traditional hot bluing, which requires specialized equipment and potentially hazardous chemicals, cold bluing is a more accessible and convenient method for achieving a blued finish at home. Cold bluing is a chemical process that creates a thin layer of black oxide on the surface of the steel, providing a degree of corrosion resistance and enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the firearm. While it may not be as durable as hot bluing, cold bluing offers a practical solution for touch-ups, small parts, and projects where a full hot bluing setup is not feasible. As expert gunsmiths often suggest, proper preparation and application are paramount to a successful cold bluing job.

Perma Blue: A Versatile and User-Friendly Option

Birchwood Casey Perma Blue is a widely recognized and respected cold bluing solution known for its ease of use and versatility. It’s designed to work on a variety of properly prepared steel surfaces, making it a popular choice for both beginners and experienced gunsmiths. Perma Blue is favored for its ability to produce a relatively even and consistent finish with minimal effort. It’s particularly well-suited for touching up scratches, blemishes, and worn areas on existing blued finishes. Our experience suggests that its forgiving nature makes it an excellent option for those new to the world of gun bluing.

Key Features of Perma Blue

Ease of Application: Perma Blue is known for its simple and straightforward application process, making it accessible to users of all skill levels.
Versatile Formulation: It works well on a wide range of steel types, including carbon steel and some alloys.
Consistent Finish: When applied correctly, Perma Blue produces a relatively even and uniform blue-black finish.
Touch-Up Capabilities: It’s ideal for touching up minor scratches and worn areas on existing blued surfaces.
Readily Available: Perma Blue is widely available at sporting goods stores, gun shops, and online retailers.

Super Blue: For a Deeper, Darker Finish

Birchwood Casey Super Blue is a more aggressive cold bluing solution designed to produce a deeper, darker, and more durable finish than Perma Blue. It contains a higher concentration of active chemicals, allowing it to penetrate the steel surface more effectively. Super Blue is often preferred by experienced gunsmiths and restorers who are looking for a more professional-looking and long-lasting finish. However, its increased potency also requires more careful preparation and application to avoid streaking, discoloration, or uneven results. In our testing, we’ve found that Super Blue requires a slightly more meticulous approach but delivers superior depth of color.

Key Features of Super Blue

Deeper, Darker Finish: Super Blue produces a significantly darker and richer blue-black finish compared to Perma Blue.
Enhanced Durability: The more aggressive formulation results in a more durable and corrosion-resistant finish.
Stronger Penetration: Super Blue penetrates the steel surface more effectively, providing better adhesion and longevity.
Professional-Grade Results: When applied correctly, Super Blue can achieve results comparable to hot bluing.
Requires More Skill: The more potent formulation requires more careful preparation and application.

Perma Blue vs. Super Blue: A Detailed Comparison

Now, let’s delve into a head-to-head comparison of Perma Blue and Super Blue across several key factors:

Finish Appearance

The most noticeable difference between Perma Blue and Super Blue is the final finish appearance. Perma Blue typically produces a lighter, slightly more blue-toned finish, while Super Blue creates a significantly darker, almost black finish. The choice between the two depends on your personal preference and the desired aesthetic for your firearm. If you’re aiming for a classic, traditional blued look, Perma Blue might be the better option. However, if you prefer a more modern, blacked-out appearance, Super Blue is the clear winner.

Durability and Corrosion Resistance

Super Blue generally offers superior durability and corrosion resistance compared to Perma Blue. Its more aggressive formulation penetrates the steel surface more effectively, creating a thicker and more protective layer of black oxide. This makes Super Blue a better choice for firearms that are exposed to harsh environments or heavy use. While Perma Blue provides adequate protection for most applications, Super Blue offers an extra layer of defense against rust and wear.

Ease of Use and Application

Perma Blue is significantly easier to use and apply than Super Blue. Its more forgiving formulation makes it less prone to streaking, discoloration, or uneven results. This makes Perma Blue an excellent choice for beginners or those who are looking for a quick and hassle-free bluing solution. Super Blue, on the other hand, requires more careful preparation, application, and attention to detail. It’s essential to degrease the steel surface thoroughly, apply the solution evenly, and avoid overlapping strokes to achieve a uniform finish. As many experienced gunsmiths will tell you, patience is key with Super Blue.

Suitability for Different Steel Types

Both Perma Blue and Super Blue are designed to work on carbon steel. However, Super Blue may be more effective on certain types of alloy steel due to its more aggressive formulation. It’s always recommended to test the bluing solution on a small, inconspicuous area of the firearm before applying it to the entire surface. This will help you determine whether the solution is compatible with the specific type of steel and achieve the desired results. Some stainless steels are very resistant to cold bluing.

Cost and Availability

Both Perma Blue and Super Blue are relatively affordable and widely available at sporting goods stores, gun shops, and online retailers. The price difference between the two is typically minimal, making cost a less significant factor in the decision-making process. Availability may vary depending on your location, but both products are generally easy to find.

Step-by-Step Application Guide (General, Adaptable to Both)

While the specific application instructions may vary slightly depending on the product, here’s a general step-by-step guide for applying cold bluing solutions like Perma Blue and Super Blue:

Disassembly: Disassemble the firearm and remove all parts that you do not want to be blued.
Cleaning and Degreasing: Thoroughly clean and degrease the steel surface using a specialized degreaser or acetone. This is a crucial step to ensure proper adhesion of the bluing solution.
Surface Preparation: Remove any rust, pitting, or old finish using fine-grit sandpaper or steel wool. The smoother the surface, the more even the bluing will be.
Application: Apply the bluing solution evenly to the steel surface using a cotton swab, applicator pad, or clean cloth. Work in small sections and avoid overlapping strokes.
Multiple Coats: Apply multiple thin coats of the bluing solution, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next. This will help you achieve a deeper and more uniform finish.
Neutralization: After applying the desired number of coats, neutralize the bluing solution with a specialized neutralizer or baking soda solution.
Oiling: Apply a generous coat of gun oil to the blued surface to protect it from rust and enhance its appearance.
Reassembly: Reassemble the firearm and enjoy your newly blued finish.

Important Note: Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully when applying any bluing solution. Wear appropriate safety gear, such as gloves and eye protection, and work in a well-ventilated area.

Advantages of Cold Bluing in Firearm Restoration

Cold bluing, whether using Perma Blue or Super Blue, offers several compelling advantages in firearm restoration and customization:

Accessibility: Cold bluing requires minimal specialized equipment and can be performed at home with basic tools.
Cost-Effectiveness: Cold bluing solutions are relatively inexpensive compared to hot bluing services or equipment.
Ease of Use: The application process is generally straightforward, making it suitable for DIY enthusiasts.
Touch-Up Capability: Cold bluing is ideal for touching up minor scratches and worn areas on existing blued finishes.
Aesthetic Enhancement: Cold bluing can dramatically improve the appearance of a firearm, restoring its original luster or creating a custom look.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

While cold bluing offers numerous advantages, it’s essential to be aware of its potential drawbacks and limitations:

Durability: Cold bluing is generally less durable than hot bluing and may require more frequent touch-ups.
Corrosion Resistance: Cold bluing provides adequate corrosion resistance for most applications, but it may not be sufficient for firearms that are exposed to harsh environments.
Finish Consistency: Achieving a perfectly uniform finish with cold bluing can be challenging, especially for beginners.
Color Variation: The final color of the blued finish may vary depending on the type of steel, the application technique, and the specific bluing solution used.
Surface Preparation: Proper surface preparation is crucial for achieving a successful cold bluing job. Failure to thoroughly clean and degrease the steel surface can result in poor adhesion and an uneven finish.

Expert Opinion: Choosing the Right Bluing Solution

The choice between Perma Blue and Super Blue ultimately depends on your individual needs, skill level, and desired results. If you’re a beginner or looking for a quick and easy touch-up solution, Perma Blue is an excellent choice. Its forgiving formulation and ease of use make it a great option for those new to gun bluing. However, if you’re an experienced gunsmith or restorer who is seeking a deeper, darker, and more durable finish, Super Blue is the preferred option. Its more aggressive formulation requires more careful preparation and application, but the results are well worth the effort. Leading experts in gunsmithing often recommend starting with Perma Blue to gain experience before tackling Super Blue.

Achieving a Perfect Blued Finish

Selecting the right bluing solution is only half the battle. Achieving a truly professional and lasting blued finish requires meticulous preparation, careful application, and a bit of patience. Investing the time and effort to properly prepare the steel surface, apply the bluing solution evenly, and protect the finished surface with gun oil will pay dividends in the long run. Remember to always follow the manufacturer’s instructions, wear appropriate safety gear, and work in a well-ventilated area. With the right tools, techniques, and a little practice, you can achieve a stunning blued finish that will enhance the beauty and value of your firearm.

Final Thoughts: Making the Right Choice for Your Firearm

Ultimately, the decision between Perma Blue and Super Blue hinges on your experience level, the desired aesthetic, and the intended use of your firearm. Perma Blue offers a user-friendly approach for simple touch-ups and a classic blued finish, while Super Blue delivers a deeper, more durable result for those seeking a professional-grade appearance. By carefully considering the factors outlined in this guide, you can confidently select the bluing solution that best suits your needs and ensures a beautiful, long-lasting finish. Feel free to share your own experiences with Perma Blue and Super Blue in the comments below, contributing to the collective knowledge of our community.

Perma Blue vs. Super Blue: Choosing the Right Gun Bluing Solution