Blue Jelly & Color Case

[@alsteadgunshop8554]

I was amused by the comment that a viewer made that there was no substitute for the real thing. Considering the process of cooking receivers in molten salt, or a potassium cyanide bath, your process is a whole lot safer and more economical. Great work.

[@SixRoundsStudio]

Yup...but I never claimed it to be anything more than what it was

[@elysia-liam1219]

Thank you for your video! It was great to share in the joy and excitement that you have in your work. As someone who is striving to learn more of refinishing and repairing with metal and woodwork, I found your video informative and I appreciated the secondhand enthusiasm! I'm looking forward to discovering more on your channel as I teach myself. Thanks again! -Liam

[@SixRoundsStudio]

I really appreciate your comment. Helps to give meaning to the work that I do.

[@jeffbush4461]

Bill, Outstanding video! The results are much better than I would have expected and the process looks to be very straightforward. I'm going to have to experiment with these coloring gels. Very cool stuff! Thanks, JB

[@SixRoundsStudio]

Thanks Jeff

[@mark4575]

I restore vintage shotguns and I have used the FX products many times with great success. I think your doing a fantastic job Bill and I agree, sometimes its not beneficial to do a full color case harding on a vintage gun. This product can produce amazing results, especially if you also incorporate other cold bluing techniques along with the FX. Lastly, many old shotguns, especially Damascus had lacquer top coats, which is what I add to mine, extra protection and brings out the patterns and colors even more. Feel free to hit me up if you’d like to chat over it Bill. Love the channel.

[@SixRoundsStudio]

Wow....thank for the input Mark. We will be doing rust blue in all the places that were blued originally. I have thought about using the lacquer after we finish with the barrel...but that is still a ways out. Hoping to reassemble the receiver soon. That should be a hoot...... Appreciate the offer.

[@prebaned]

Pietta perfected this Faux Color Case hardening finish with a gloss finish. It doesn't hold up that great and the Faux color does not protect the carbon steel like bluing or park finish from rusting. Good alternative from a true Turnbull bone and charcoal Color case hardening job that still wears over time and cost as much as a new receiver in most cases. Nice video.

[@SixRoundsStudio]

Thank you for watching and commenting. Appreciate the complement!

[@Sanguivore]

Very cool video, Bill! I love the look of case colored guns, and I appreciate the economic and practical approach these gels and liquid finishes provide.

[@SixRoundsStudio]

Thank you. I still need to do more experimenting but I do think the potential is pretty fantastic.

[@mdk675]

Well, that is just fantastic! Have an old 410 single that is gonna get this finish! Thanks so much for sharing this option.

[@SixRoundsStudio]

Was my pleasure. Thanks for commenting.

[@chuckeecheese162]

Looks a heck of a lot better than I ever expected. Well done

[@SixRoundsStudio]

Yep...me too. Thanks for being here Chuckee

[@waitfortheflash6286]

Beautiful result! I still have the gels on a shelf somewhere in my workshop. Might give it another shot, if I come across another appropriate project gun. Again, very nice result.. Glad to hear it's holding up.

[@SixRoundsStudio]

Get em out and try it again. I was also thinking about spraying with a clear lacquer if I should have trouble with fading.

[@joetruth5924]

I have a vintage Savage Model 99 lever action. The lever was case hardened but has faded. I plan on using this process. Thanks for the video.

[@SixRoundsStudio]

You are very welcome!

[@monroeautobody1971]

Yes I agree this is a great product, I used it and was impressed with the results, thanks for the video.

[@SixRoundsStudio]

Yep surprised me how good it came out. Thanks for taking the time to comment.

[@jonathanellis8921]

Well this is fantastic. I've got some catching up to do with your videos. I'm in love with old shotguns and I'm sure I'll be doing some of this soon

[@SixRoundsStudio]

Thank you Jonathan! Glad you are here.

[@Benelli-ex7oq]

That looks really good totally awesome that's why I love watching this channel thank you merry Christmas to you and your family all the best tony🎅🤶

[@SixRoundsStudio]

Thank you Benelli! Merry Christmas to you and yours as well!

[@k1j2f30]

Mark, that faux color has a lot of potential, I agree with you, it takes an artistic approach. Very nice, especially for your first time! It's all a matter of trial and error and the desire to make each job better than the last. I wonder how durable this finish will be though. No doubt, shellac or a lacquer will add more depth and brighter colors, as well as helping the finish last longer. Great job, buddy! I do love some good case colors!

[@SixRoundsStudio]

Thank you!

[@SixRoundsStudio]

Thank you!

[@earlshedlock3989]

I think its beautiful and I am so glad to see so many other people say the same. The truth is in the end result no matter how you got there .

[@SixRoundsStudio]

Thanks Earl. You will be one of the first to see it when its completely restored. Will give you a special showing,

[@michaelrichard7249]

Very nice job Bill! Well done.👍

[@SixRoundsStudio]

Thank you Michael!

[@SlickSixguns]

Very cool looking experience I’m trying this finish on one of my guns

[@SixRoundsStudio]

I dont think you will be disappointed.

[@paul55austria51]

Nice result! Try finishing it with shellac. The colors then become much deeper. It is easy to apply, but also to remove when necessary. I believe Turnbull is also doing this after the real CCH. It is a glass-hard protective layer. In any case, I have good results with my CCH revolver and Winchester. 👍

[@SixRoundsStudio]

Thanks. Interesting idea. I will have to try an experiment. I have also heard folks say to use lacquer.

[@paul55austria51]

@@SixRoundsStudio Of course you can also use synthetic paints. But if you want to remove it, this is often only possible aggressively, with all the consequences that entails. You don't have that with shellac. It is soluble with alcohol. It is harmless because it is natural. When dried it is really crystal hard. It is especially important to find the right fluidity, because it dries quickly. There is a KZbin video where you can see Turnbull applying it. Here the link from the 6th minute: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jKLHnpqQpriLn7Msi=WOQntLIqObUZ3lvP I'm pretty sure it's shellac because of the color, the method of application, and the knowledge that conservation was done using this technique in the past. The only 'disadvantage' is that you should not clean the weapon with alcohol. Why would you? Cleaning with Ballistol or other oil is completely problem-free. Regards, Paul

[@iankelley7574]

I think it looks really convincing and I would be happy with the result too! It might be a little dark and I would like to see higher contrast between the gray-silver, blue, and black tones.

[@SixRoundsStudio]

I don't disagree. Need more practice and a better understanding of how to use each color. I will get there. Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@iankelley7574]

@@SixRoundsStudio I like what you're doing and I may reach out to you for gunsmithing work in the future. I'm excited to see your progression with this faux color case finishes.

[@billycarr1254]

Great video, glad I found it. Have you attempted this process on an aluminum receiver?

[@SixRoundsStudio]

Thanks for watching and commenting. I have not. I know that it can be. I think if you go to the website the do offer some suggestions on using the various chems that they manufacture on aluminum and brass.

[@robertbooth7396]

Thank you for this KZbin. Very helpful. I am late to this party, but I hope you might have time to entertain a question: Can you mix the colors and then apply the mixture in one go and have a myriad of colors as if the colors were applied separately? Maybe mixing the solutions will just make a mud color.

[@SixRoundsStudio]

Dont know?? Nice thing about these chems is that you can use them decoratively to create any effect you can imagine as long as the chem and steel react to each other. I chose to use the chems in a way to replicate color case finish, but each jar has its own effect and color on the steel

[@chrislettenmaier6822]

I’m curious about where you got the wall cabinet’s behind you? If you can let me know thanks. Great video

[@SixRoundsStudio]

Sears...back in the day

[@Eugene2ndW]

Have been watching your videos with interest. Not sure I've gotten thru all. I have a 100 yr old SxS with an engraved receiver. The real case coloring restore is in the thousands. I am interested in the process. What cleaning procedure should I consider to brighten the metal without damaging the engraving? Thanks.

[@SixRoundsStudio]

Thanks for commenting! If the receiver is in good condition without rust pitting or deeper gouges or dings, then I would polish with 220 paper (you could go as fine as 320 for a brighter finish). I have done a couple vids on polishing that you might find useful.

[@H.R.6688]

I wonder if you put a coat of varnish or something over that to help keep it from rubbing off.

[@SixRoundsStudio]

Yes....I need to do that experiment.

[@H.R.6688]

@@SixRoundsStudio if I remember correctly that's what companies like H&R did. They put a coat of something over theirs.

[@kbjerke]

Bill, your intro scared the @#$%^& out of me. Please don't do that again!! LOL But I digress. The procedure you used produced a perfectly accurate finish which is a delight to behold! Your client will be ecstatic with the final product. I might mention, that when I complete a metal project, rather than using oil as a preservative (it does make the item *GLOW!*) I prefer to use conservator's wax (like Renaissance) for a more lasting sealer. It tends to resist fingerprints, too. Many companies (Uberti, Pietta, etc.) are using similar procedures to achieve this attractive finish. I have *NO* problem with that! But let's remember - the original intent of case hardening was to actually harden the metallic surface, and the color was just an added bonus. So, you are not cheating! Can't wait to see the final product unveiling!!! Best wishes, Bill!!

[@SixRoundsStudio]

The new KZbin algorithms says you need to get a viewers attention in the first 15 seconds. Seems like it worked. 😀

[@kbjerke]

@@SixRoundsStudio Keep on Keepin' on. Bill!

[@johnhowald9495]

Totally agree here about the hardening process. That receiver has been through that already, just adding some color back in is the magic! It'd be really interesting to see how the color would last on a piece that would get handled more regularly than an heirloom will. We'll gain that knowledge over time! Can't wait to see the end results....maybe in person!

[@SixRoundsStudio]

@@johnhowald9495 When its done, it will be on display for a short time at the retail shop. A while yet to go.

[@SixRoundsStudio]

Karl, I never thought of using Renaissance. Its an idea when everything is done. Yes on the original purpose of case hardening. I was just having that discussion at the retail store today with some younger kids (relative term) Im mentoring.

[@SLmetalmania]

Can we use only copper colour what you have applied at frist?

[@SixRoundsStudio]

No...there are several colors used to get this affect. I have done a couple of vids on using this process. Each time I do it it comes out just a bit better than the one before. I like this coloring process a lot!

[@usmcmma]

Was original case hardening the cerakote of yesteryear or did it serve a purpose? I know that it adds surface hardness but was it really necessary or more cosmetic?

[@SixRoundsStudio]

The steels of the time, were not as they are today. The "case hardening" was added to increase wear resistance to surfaces that interfaced with each other (in this case the receiver was where all the moving parts interfaced with). It also provided a measure of rust resistance to the steel. The color was a biproduct of the case hardening. NOW....did manufactures begin to see the "art" value in the finish? I am sure.

[@milesh.1125]

It looks real good, I may just do this one day

[@SixRoundsStudio]

It was remarkably easy. It is all in the prep.

[@RookCustoms]

How durable is the finish will it s rub off as you clean it?

[@SixRoundsStudio]

Answer to both of your comments. This is chemical coloring, just like bluing. The chemical does etch the metal. I am less concerned about it being "rubbed" of , and more concerned about it not being "light fast" and fading over time (this is what happens to the older Ruger Vaqueros) . This whole process is an experiment for me. The Ithaca will be a wall hanger and I am not too worried about that. I did do the same coloring technique on a Stevens Favorite (it came out beautiful and you can see that video too). I am holding on to the Stevens so I can observe it over time. I will post updates later as I see the results.

[@lozach1000]

nice for sharing data on this product !

[@SixRoundsStudio]

I am very happy with the product. As I get better at using it the results will be spectacular.

[@ubroberts5541]

Didn’t one case hardening process involve dipping the parts in molten salt?

[@SixRoundsStudio]

Yes...it is used. I am not a metallurgist, so cannot speak for pros or cons of one method over another...however...Ruger used a salt process for the early Vaqueros to get the "color case" coloring on those revolvers. It was time intensive so eventually they dropped it for more traditional bluing.

[@danwildhaber8178]

That would be Kasenit. Used for case hardening. Surface hardening is the object. The colors of bone charcoal case hardening or other case hardening was just a byproduct of the process.

[@GenderSkins]

No!!!! There is no process of case hardening that uses molten salts, that is caustic bluing/hot bluing or salt bluing. Case hardening involves placing a piece of iron or steel into an air tight container that contains some kind of carbon source, which is then heated to an extremely high temperature then hailed there for an extended time to increase the carbon content making the metal harder on the outside while remaining soft inside. Color case hardening is similar, but uses a mixture of different carbon sources like bone, charcoal, leather ect. then cooled rapidly in air rated water. Case hardening can be done with either a steel casing, clay or a crucible that is sealed air tight. Color case hardening is most commonly done with a steel case that has a removable lid that can be sealed with clay that is broken when removed from heating before the quench.

[@GPgundude]

Very Nice!! Just Subscribed!!

[@SixRoundsStudio]

@@GPgundude Appreciate it GP!

[@eddiehayes2388]

I have several guns color cased hardened from the factory. They all wore off in spots from carry them after one season. I see no problem with the jelly since the over is about $3000 and the finish wears off.

[@SixRoundsStudio]

Thanks Eddie. I think there is a time an a place for each. The gel is a reasonable alternative when cost or risk is high.

[@GenderSkins]

I have to agree with the commenter about there being no substation for the real thing. But that said, not everything or everyone has to have the real thing whatever that real thing is. It’s like a wood stock vs a synthetic stock, one is not inherently better then the other, yet one may out perform the other in situations where the conditions may damage one over the other or effect the accuracy. How durable the FX finish is, I do not know as it maybe the same as cold bluing with its durability. Or it could be more durable then color case hardening, in how long it last. But one thing is for sure, and that is that as it ages the finish will develop a unique look in its pattern.

[@SixRoundsStudio]

Very nicely said and thought out!! Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@richardmoran5438]

Ceracoat is different because it will prevent oxidation of the metal. This process has to be sealed with oil or shelac to prevent water and air from getting to the metal. Rub each finish with steel wool and you'll see another difference. It's ... decorative. I am not sure how I feel about it. I was not happy when my ruger sixguns had their "case hardening" wear off with use.

[@SixRoundsStudio]

Agreed...it is decorative. But so is bluing, checkering, engine turning, and high gloss wood finishes (which I hate). Have you seen some of the beautiful artwork that has been added to older English and German side by side shotguns? Some of the most beautiful wood grains that I have seen in older, high-end vintage mansions, weren't even the woods that it represented...but faux painted grains to look so real that I have seen them "fool" some of the most astute observers. I think what is key is that it is represented as what it is. Rugers color case finish on the old Vaqueros was a salt bath heat treat technique. It was beautiful, and today is my favorite Vaqueros (you can keep the stainless). But truthfully, even "real" color case finishes mostly tend to wear or lighten over time (I have seen so many). One of the struggles is to understand your individual "taste". If you are utilitarian, then decoration is meaningless to the mission (which I completely understand). But, I do see a great firearm as something that speaks as much to the soul as to the work that it does. That is why I am "experimenting" with this technique and trying to learn how its done well, and if it can be stable over time. , Thanks so much for the comment and the discussion.

[@marvinsauer8493]

A few coats of matte clear coat over the “color case” will keep the receiver looking nice for some time.

[@SixRoundsStudio]

Yeah, I had considered doing that. Decided not to because it was a customer gun and wasn't sure what it would look like and didn't want to start over again if it messed up. I will have to try it on a test piece. Thanks for the comment and suggestion.

[@archangel20031]

Cerakote protects the surface from rust without the use of oil. That said, until I saw this video I was a die-hard fan of true color case hardening, but with my 140 year old black powder shotgun that im restoring, I'm hesitant to risk warping some large or critical component that I cannot adjust for in the restoration. Well, not a true restoration as some parts of it seemed to be built with bits of scrap or factory rejected components as I can't see someone not noticing the manufacturing issues. ***OH, what Mark said, I guess that thick brown coating on my gun was a Lacquer coating, and it was even on the hammers that didn't even come close to fitting!

[@SixRoundsStudio]

archangel...it is not by any suggestion a true color case (no claim to it) but as a faux finish...I am both amazed and hopeful for future use of the product. Thanks for the comment.

[@RookCustoms]

You can still cerakote this with a clear and it will seal it.

[@Drifter69]

Beautiful Atlas back there :)

[@SixRoundsStudio]

Thank you Drifter. Circa late 30s ? into the 1940s. Did a restoration on that years ago and works like a charm (you can see it in some of my vids). Getting so not many of even recognize it any more. Thanks for the comment.

[@Drifter69]

@SixRoundsStudio i have a TH42 i need to get sorted .. i started to put her back .. but got distracted.. I need to check the headstock bearings .. if original, i can date her.. but definitely was war time equipment..

[@chrisfinley4816]

Looks nice

[@SixRoundsStudio]

Yep...exceeded my expectations. Thanks for taking the time to comment.

[@tedmaas3588]

How durable is the finish?

[@SixRoundsStudio]

If you are referring to the color case finish...I really don't know. This is all an experiment for me right now. I have done two guns using it and am keeping an eye on the finish over time to see how it fairs. My concern is not that it simply disappears (not being "light fast")...but does it hold up when being handled. So far so good.

[@tedmaas3588]

@@SixRoundsStudio Thx for the feed back, the EZ to apply finish looked very appealing, something I would look into. And I really love your repair and finishing techniques..

[@SixRoundsStudio]

@@tedmaas3588 Thank you Ted!

[@A.R.American1]

Some people just want to hate if your happy that's all that counts. By the way that looks great I will have to try that sometime.

[@SixRoundsStudio]

Yes...Social media is full of haters. But there are more good folks like you A.R. I think that gel color has huge potential.

[@A.R.American1]

@@SixRoundsStudio I dont think they realize that all those pietta and uberti SAA clones the case color is fake. They dont need to case color harden anymore the steel is better. They di it for the look . Any way you did a amazing job I gonna give that a try.

[@SixRoundsStudio]

@@A.R.American1 Thanks A.R.

[@mathewgoebel4078]

Looks good to me.

[@SixRoundsStudio]

Yes...It amazed me how nice it looked. Thanks for the comment!

[@rongilmore2827]

13.50 video, 12.50 of watching this guy talk into the camera

[@SixRoundsStudio]

This guy's name is Bill and if you didn't like the vid (which is one of my best performing, 135 new subscribers, 415 likes, 10,000 views) it is your propagative, just click away....and I would be fine with that. Tolls will be trolls.

[@jharchery4117]

There is nothing wrong with a faux finish. Herschel House spent a career doing faux finishes on his longrifles which are world famous and sought after around the world.

[@SixRoundsStudio]

Thanks for the info. I had never heard of him. Checked out some of his stuff...very attractive!

[@jharchery4117]

Sadly, he just passed away@@SixRoundsStudio

[@williamdevitt7866]

now you got it colored now put a very thin film of truoil on it and it will last for ever after it dries

[@SixRoundsStudio]

Hmmmm....thats an idea!

[@RealWorldGarage]

It’s like guys doing fake patina on a car, if it gives you the look you are going for, then that all that matters. Some of the fire arms you’re repairing, while they will be functional, may never be used again, or maybe only a few times a year. At least I can’t see myself taking one that you have restored and putting it into heavy use.

[@SixRoundsStudio]

Thanks Brian. Its as much passion as craft

[@garyb.4080]

Fact is true color case colors,are very fragile, and easy to remove from the metal, so who cares how you put it on!

[@SixRoundsStudio]

Thank you. I love true color case....when its new. But I am becoming increasingly in love with the results of these patina jells. Did you see the Stevens Favorite videos? I plan to use this finish on more firearms into the future.