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Electroplating for gun restoration

I want to get lead and copper out of a barrel from a gun using some type of reverse electro-plating. The system would have a stainless steel rod inside the barrel with a solution. Any comments on what type of solution to use, where to get it and the voltage to use would be appreciated.

JR Rosales
1998

The process that you are considering (electro ethcing or polishing) would remove a portion of the barrel surface as well as any copper or lead. This would increase the inside diameter of the bore and most likely destroy any rifleing in the barrel, turning it essentially into a shot barrel. If it is a shotgun that you cleaning, consider also that the copper and lead that are removed are both harmfull contaminants and must be diposed of properly.

Gary Chester
- JR
1998

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1998

JR,

Midway sells the Outers brand Foul Out II Electrochemical Bore Cleaning System for about $80. I suspect other manufacturers have systems available. Local gunsmiths may provide this service and are generally very willing to discuss other options. Catalogs are usually delivered in 2 - 4 weeks. These folks are open 7AM - midnight M-F and 8AM-8PM Sat-Sun, CST. Shipping is free to the lower 48 states.

Depending on the degree of fouling, you may choose from a variety of cleaning solvents. Midway also stocks a wide selection of these for stripping powder, lead and/or copper fouling (generally $6 for 4 fl.ozs.). I have used "Sweet's 7.62 Solvent" to remove copper fouling left by jacketed bullets with excellent results for several years. The solvents are generally available at discount stores and gun dealers. You may be able to find the bore cleaning system locally at better gun/shooting suppliers.

Hope this has been useful. Have fun with the restoration!

Regards,

Gene

Gene Garrett