Almost ready to Armacoat my M14, but I...

[jonh172]

I have experienced both finishes... Arma-coat scratches WAY easier, but Ceracote chipped around the edges easier, I don't think either are all that amazing. However, if you have a good parkerized base finish, I find that Arma-coat adheres extremely well and really holds up! The key to Arma-coat is that you NEED to allow it to cure for about a month before hard use. Most people run out the door with their freshly Arma-coated firearms and wonder why they got scratched to sh*t.

Applying cerkote too thick causes chipping, (or any paint for that matter) it's very easy to apply too thick, so a good hvlp and surface prep are a good start, but just wafts of paint are key to a durable finish.

More is not always more in these cases.

 

[r_taylor]

... need to take my bolt apart. I don't have the tools. Anyone in Edmonton have a bolt dis-assembly tool? If not, mailing it to you in a padded envelope isn't the end of the world. I'll even toss in some cash for your time. But you'll have to put it back together after it's sprayed, too. I'll cover postage, of course.

The simplest method is with a 30-06 casing in the chamber. Keeps the ejector in place. Google it for instructions.

 

[krprice84]

the simplest method is with a 30-06 casing in the chamber. Keeps the ejector in place. Google it for instructions.

this ^^^

 

[Grizz Axxemann]

The simplest method is with a 30-06 casing in the chamber. Keeps the ejector in place. Google it for instructions.

I'd have to source a .30-06 case then. I think another CGNr might be able to help me out, provided I'm still in town (work got in the way of my tearing down the bolt)

 

[krprice84]

I can mail you one if you want... Let me know if you don't find one local, a stamp cost less than a buck.... Lmk

 

[MustangFrank]

Preparation is the key to applying any finish. If the company recommends sandblasting, then you should sandblast to create the necessary profile on the surface of the metal. I recommend 100-120 grit garnet. Soak in non chlorinated brake cleaner first though. Then bake out in an oven at 150 C. If there are absolutely no signs of oil or contamination, then spray. All this information is provided in a very easy to understand video on the Cerakote web site.

I believe all the lab testing at Cerakote was done independently but certainly is open to law suits if they make false claims. They have not been sued. When they say they are the best, they mean it. Problems with unusual wear or chipping is usually a result of a poorly trained or untrained " applicator ". However, any coating has a failure point.