Bluing a Winchester for gunsmithing class

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Hello my name is Stephane L. and I am 17 year old. I am presently taking a Gunsmith intensive 12 months course. The teacher ask us to find out why some Winchester 94 could not be applied the bluing process successfully. We need to find the years and serial numbers and what is the metal alloy made of. Can you please help me with this information? Thank you very much for your co-operation

Stephane L.
- Masham, Quebec, Canada

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Hello,

Sorry about the late response but maybe this will help you. Some Win '94 used iron components such as barrel bands and recievers. Brownells carries specialized blueing for there items.

Gordon E. Smith
- Columbus, Ohio, USA

May 10, 2009

Starting in 1964, Winchester began using a cast alloy for the receivers on the 94 rifle, instead of the machined steel stock they had used until then. Typically wear on the receiver will look like black paint wearing off from bright nickle. This alloy is finicky as far as taking a good bluing. I have to turn mine over to someone who is far better at it than I am. I've tried to get him to share his secret recipe, but he guards it like the Colonel's 11 secret spices. He's doing a 1968 30/30 for me right now. They comne out looking very nice but they aren't the rich blue that the barrels get. Good luck with your studies, and if you work this problem out, you're bound to make some money.

Bill Lawson
- Jamestown NY USA