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Stripping chrome to restore authenticity

I have a question or two regarding chrome removal. We have a full machine shop and recently I acquired some rifle barrels. Unfortunately these WWII barrels were chrome plated on the lugs located on the discharge end of the barrels There are three square spots approximately 1/2" x 1" long on each barrel which are chrome plated for reasons I won't get into. I need to remove this and would prefer a muriatic acid method. I have researched this process but can't find out how I tell when the chrome is gone. Someone said to wait until the bubbling action stops, but will not the metal barrel also bubble as it is corroded away?

How do I tell when process is complete?

Thank you,

Thomas

Thomas Smith
- Tuscaloosa, Alabama
2003

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The attack should slow dramatically when the chrome is gone, such that "wait until the bubbling stops" may not be as puzzling as you think. However, I would never practice on an item of value like this. Further, you did not say whether there is nickel under the chrome or not. Take them to a plating shop.

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey
2003

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The gun barrel is a hardened high strength steel. You will get some hydrogen embrittlement from muriatic acid [affil links]. The barrel needs to be stress relieved immediately after the strip at 350F for 4 hours. Otherwise it is subject to eventual failure if fired enough times.

James Watts
- Navarre, Florida
2003