Browning - LMF browning/degreaser is cheap, easy and controllable. Wipe on, hang the parts in the bathroom and let the shower run on hot for a few minutes to steam things up. Rinse, card and repeat until you get what you want. 4-5 cycles works for me. Best tip - don't sand the metal too fine of a finish or it will take forever to brown. I have found around 180 grit works pretty well.
Blue - Rust blue using LMF browning/degreaser to brown, then immerse parts in boiling hot distilled water. Rinse, card, repeat. This process gives a nice durable blue finish in my experience. Basic method is described here: http://www.hobbygunsmith.com/Archives/Aug03/HowTo.htm. I have only had trouble getting a good rust blue going on a few small parts, but I kept at it.
Blue - Rust blue using LMF browning/degreaser to brown, then immerse parts in boiling hot distilled water. Rinse, card, repeat. This process gives a nice durable blue finish in my experience. Basic method is described here: http://www.hobbygunsmith.com/Archives/Aug03/HowTo.htm. I have only had trouble getting a good rust blue going on a few small parts, but I kept at it.
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