Parkerizing is the process of protecting ferrous metals from corrosion and wear by applying a chemical phosphate coating. Parkerizing is an excellent gun coating in its own right and it also makes a perfect base for other finishes.

Depending on the metal components in the various parts of the firearm there may be some variation in the colour achieved. The finish is usually quite uniform but there can be some differences between the barrel and other metal parts. The chemical analysis of the metal involved (i.e. more or less chrome, iron, etc.) will determine the colour. When oiled it naturally takes on a slightly darker appearance but if you use the formula as instructed on the bottle, you can achieve the colour desired.

With the Zinc solution you may get a variation on the gray colour but usually the finish is light to medium gray. With the Manganese solution, the finish colour will be dark to charcoal gray (almost black).

NOTE: The colour shading can be manipulated by two variables:1) the length of time the item spends in the Parkerizing bath and 2) the amount of concentrate added to the solution.

Only carbon steel can be parkerized. You can’t parkerize stainless steel, brass, aluminum or any other non-ferrous metals, these metals will contaminate the Parkerizing solution.

Trying to mask off the area with duct tape, or even a water resistant tape used in heat-treating plants, is NOT recommended. Even if you suspend the piece, the vapors can still seep in and impact the finish on the barrel. Do not risk it – have your gunsmith take off the barrel to avoid any problems.

No sealer is required other than a true rust preventative oil. Once the solution has been used, the piece must be well rinsed, well dried and then oiled.

Of course, there's no such thing as a scratch- or wear-proof coating, but Parkerizing is one of the most durable coatings out there. It's not a paint that chips, thickens a blade, or scratches off easily.

Without the oil or grease, a Parkerized finish will rust faster than more common (and advanced) finishes.

1. Cleaning is required to remove dirt, grease, oil and other contaminants from the material surface. Usually this preparation process is done by using a soft brush which removes all contaminants from the material surface.

2. Parkerizing process starts with a hot water rinse tank where the work piece is immersed for 3-5 minutes. After this the metallic parts are removed from the hot water rinse and submerged in the parkerizing solution. This is carried out for 3-10 minutes at a steady operating temperature of between 190FO and 195FO. This process can be enhanced further by immersing again for 5-10 minutes at a temperature range adjusted to between 68FO and 92FO.

3. Clean the parkerized parts by using the flowing water of a rinse tank and a stiff brush to scrub the parts thoroughly – this also ends the parkerizing reaction on the surface. After the part is removed from the solution tank, it is left hanging on a rack above the tank to allow excess solution to drain back into tank. After this action is completed, remove it from rack, inspect it and then move to packing and storing.

In one of the many processes that have been developed, the solution is heated to a temperature of 190-210 °F (88-99 °C) for a period ranging between 5 and 45 minutes. A stream of small bubbles is emitted from the metal part as the process takes place; when the bubbling stops, the process is complete.

1. Parkerizing protects the metal surface from corrosion

2. Provides wear resistance and also increased resistance from scratching

3. Chemicals that are used in this process are easily available

4. Time consumption for this process is lower compared to other similar processes

5. Overall the process can be completed at very low cost

Parkerizing cannot be remove with chemicals it must be removed by blasting or sanding.

• Package your items securely. If you are shipping firearms, ensure they are unloaded with no ammo in the shipment.

• We will send you a work order form to complete and print, this will go in your box. This will include your packing slip of items and insurance.

• We will send you a shipping label for your item as well as a return label when complete with your work.

We offer 10% off on all our services. A copy of your military ID, Departmental Credentials, VA Card, or your DD214 will be needed for the discount.