Salt bluing

[Bearman]

Hi guys,
I have been thinking about the finish on my blades when I get started.
I like the idea of a very subtle bluegrey colour to the steel. I believe this to be a process called salt bluing.

Is it an industrial process or could I do it at home?
What would it entail? - salt?

Thanks,

Bear

[BrianT]

Hi Bear

The process that you speak of is the same method that is used to blue firearms. This process uses blueing salts to react with the steel to provide a blue/black color.

You can do this process at home, but unless you plan to do a lot of blueing, you would be better off having a gunsmith do it for you. If you are not in a hurry to get a piece done, a gunsmith will probably throw your blade in when he is bluing guns, for a reasonable fee.

Doing this yourself requires a couple of steel tanks, cleaning solution, bluing solution, propane burners, propane gas source, thermometers, and stands for the tanks and burners. You can get the supplies from Brownells.

Brian

[Bearman Knives]

Brian,
Thanks for the info., I'll drop a line to Brownells and see what they can offer.

Thanks,

Bear

[aiiifish]

You might also try this guy. All he does is hot bluing. Did a couple of pistols for me when I was gunsmithing full time. He does good work.

contact Mel @ jdoyle@nidlink.com

Steve

[aiiifish]

Oh by the way.....be sure to see what temp they blue at as this can blow your temper on the blade. Steve

[Bearman Knives]

Aiiifish,
Thanks for the info. sent him an e-mail, just got to wait now.

Thanks,

Bear