Gun blueing?

[6-Pack]

I just picked up an 870 express in sad shape for cheap. I'm trying to decide if I should "try" to re-parkerize it or blue it. Anyone know anything about blueing? I would prefer to go that route if it is'nt too difficult. I've seen several different methods on youtube, but what works best? Thanks!

[tightgroup]

It depends on what you want to do with it. Blue looks great but parkerizing would hold up better. There are also some spray-on finishes like Gunkote which yeild good results.

[6-Pack]

I love the way my Wingmaster looks, so I'd kind of like to replicate that look if possible. I've already begun the staining of the stock to get it darker. Might try to find an inexpensive chrome bolt as well.

[Adaminak]

If it's already parkerized (the express series is I think), you'd have to completely remove the old finish and polish all the metal before you send it off to be re-blued. A shiny, deep gloss finish like the original Wingmaster series is very difficult to get, and you might be better off just buying a new gun. You're talking about 3-4 hours to remove the parkerizing, and at least another 5 hours polishing the bare metal to prepare for bluing. If you don't do all the prep yourself, a gunsmith will charge at least $45/hr, and at that price, it's cheaper to buy a used 870 Wingmaster.

I'd suggest you just accept the gun for the awesome tool it is, and touch it up with Gunkote.

[6-Pack]

As for the time involved, not a problem. I,m layed off right now so time I have. Plus I got it cheap so if it does'nt come out right I won't be too broken up about it. I have access to pretty much everything (I think) that I'll need to prep the metal. I'm just trying to decide which method of blueing to use. I've pretty much ruled out nitre blueing unless I hear otherwise. But there are also things like Blue Wonder and those liquids that you dip the whole barrel/action in. I will admit that parkerizeing would probably be easier. I just like the blue much better.

[ofcmarc]

Might try to find an inexpensive chrome bolt as well.

Order it from Remington. They are pretty cheap. Probly get a blued barrell from them cheap as well.

[Fronty Owner]

I would duracoat it.

If its synthetic, a nice FDE on the furniture and OD for the metal.
If its got nice wood, go with a matte black on the metal.

Actually, that not entirely true... I wouldn't spend the money of duracoat. I shot my maverick in krylon.