Cold Rust Bluing Problem

A. Welcome to gun blueing 101. In my experience, EVERY method of producing rust on the item leaves, RED OXIDE rust. Simple boiling in water, will turn the red oxides dark. You would not believe how long I searched for this same answer, in the days PC (pre computer)

Boil it for a few minutes, then using a fine soft wire brush, or degreased #0000 steel wool [on eBay or Amazon], remove the accumulated "rust". While still hot enough to dry the next coat of solution, apply, let cure overnight, boil, repeat. Typical firearms steel, may take 5 or 6 boilings.

Cleanliness is next to godliness is the whole trick, and having a properly polished surface to start with. Most guys will stop between 400 and 600 grit polish medium.

Upon re reading this, I realize I told you most of what you have already tried, I apologize

Don't forget, when this method was used, gun steel was a lot softer than it is now. When Winchester for example started adding higher amounts of nickel, that complicated the finish process.

It appears to me, you have plenty of rust. Are you removing it by hand? Or power? If by power, you may simply be getting too heavy handed. Good luck, it's a long learning curve. Sorry for the false start I first advised. o.

A. All gun manufacturers use the hot black oxide process, and you will find it gives a more uniform and durable color. There are many shops which do black oxide coating, and it is not very expensive. This is not a reasonable process to do outside of a metal finishing shop, but the end result will be worth having it done by a pro.

Thanks to those that have replied. A reasonable amount of trial and error have seen us eventually come up with an excellent finish.

Finished product:    Regards,
Phil