barrellbrowning

[tractorholic]

As a few of you know i've been working on a traditions kentucky rifle kit. This morning I followed the instructions on the bottle and in the manuel and heated the barrel, then used a sponge to brown the barrel. Man is it rusty looking. It has streaks, and I don't know how to get rid of those darn streaks. I did two applications, and it's still streaked. Does anyone know the secret to a smooth even finish? Will appreciate any help guys. :surrender:

 

[rabjr]

LMF? You can't put any pressure on what ever your using for an applicator. Your going to have to reprep the barrel and very softly, reapply the solution.

 

[AeroncaTAL]

When applying the browning solution do not scrub. Make one swipe down the barrel. Whatever you miss you will pick up with further applications.
Scott

 

[tractorholic]

I didn't rub, just swiped the barrel. I red the browning material in this area, and did as it said. After it has set a little longer I'll try the rough cloth and hot water to see if the streaks come out like it says to do. I sure hope it turns out so I don't have to start over. Maybe I should've used a piece of cloth instead of the sponge like it says on the bottle, who knows. It's kinda cool down here in the ol desert, so may need a little longer to set before beginning the rough cloth and hot water treatment.
Thanks for the help guys, sure appreciate your help and input. :v

 

[Zonie]

bluefeather

I didn't see where you said what sort of browning solution you are using.
Without knowing, it is hard to give any answers at all but, if you are using LMF Browning and Degreasing solution I don't heat the barrel at all.

I just gently wipe on one coat and let it do its thing.

If your using Birchwood Casey Plum Brown you do need to heat the metal to about 280 degrees before applying it.
If it is applied to metal that is cooler than about 230 degrees it will form a copper layer that will prevent further browning. If this copper layer appears it needs to be sanded off before trying again.

If it is applied to metal hotter than 300 degrees it spits and forms spots and streaks.

Even if the metal is at the right temperature (280) it often streaks.
After applying a coat of Plum Brown wash off the residue using a clean paper towel. Then reheat the metal and apply another coat. Follow this with another washing.
Keep on doing this for at least 3 coats. More coats is better.
Even after 4 or 5 coats there may be some areas that look streaked.
After the final coat, wash the metal as before and sit it aside to age at least overnight. Longer is better.

After aging, apply some linseed oil or even motor oil. The oil will darken the finish and even it out so very few streaks will remain.