Eric this is a quote from Allen Martin off another forum. This formula really works well on iron furniture also. I should be so lucky to get a rifle to look as good as his!! :master:
Erastus.......
I been asked for this before !!! Seem like this finish is a big hit !!!!!
First step ....
Brown the barrel like normal but do not card or remove scale like you if you were making a even brown . What you are looking for is the pitting . I normally I leave my barrel in the damp box for about 8-12 days . The barrel will look ....rough !!!!!!
Some folks use bleach but I feel the pits get to large ......... and uneven .
Step two ....
Sand the barrel down to the bare metal but you leave the pits .
It's very messy job .
Using 100 grit sandpaper going to a scotch-brite pad , I also you use hot -soapy water and wet sand .
Step three .....
Apply cold blue ..... Brownell's 44/40 works for me .....
Rub the cold off with a scotch-brite pad & oil .......... And that's it !!!!!!!!
Simple takes time and it's messy .
Every job turns out different ..... but thats the beauty of it !!!!
Good luck .............
Allen
Allen Martin Custom Flintlock Rifles
The home of the Lehigh Co. Rifle
http://www.allenmartinrifles.com