Smyth Busters: Why 50 Shades of FDE?

Published on April 27, 2021
Duration: 3:01

This video from Brownells' Smyth Busters series explains why Flat Dark Earth (FDE) firearm components often don't match. Presenters Stephen and Caleb detail how different materials, manufacturing processes (injection molding, painting, anodizing), and batch variations lead to inconsistent FDE shades. They advise that for perfect color matching, in-person selection or professional refinishing with products like Cerakote is necessary, ultimately concluding that minor color differences are often a matter of personal preference.

Quick Summary

Flat Dark Earth (FDE) firearm components often don't match due to variations in materials, manufacturing processes (anodizing, painting), and production batches. For perfect color consistency, select parts in person or professionally refinish the entire firearm with coatings like Cerakote.

Chapters

  1. 00:03Introducing FDE Color Variations
  2. 00:19FDE Components Are Not Consistent
  3. 00:36Reasons for Color Differences
  4. 01:06Batch and Manufacturer Variations
  5. 01:21Customer Inquiries and 'FDE Society'
  6. 01:39Solutions for Matching Colors
  7. 01:57Personal Preference and Functionality
  8. 02:40Call to Action

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do my FDE AR-15 parts not match?

FDE color variations occur due to differences in materials (aluminum vs. plastic), manufacturing processes like anodizing or painting, and even batch variations from the same manufacturer over time. This leads to inconsistent shades across components.

How can I get my FDE firearm components to match perfectly?

For perfect FDE color matching, the best methods are to select components in person at a store to visually compare shades, or to have the entire firearm professionally refinished using coatings like Cerakote, Aluma-Hyde, or Gun Kote for a uniform look.

Are FDE color variations a common issue?

Yes, FDE color variations are a common issue that many firearm owners notice. Brownells even refers to customers concerned about FDE matching as the 'Flat Dark Earth Society' due to the frequency of these inquiries.

What are the main reasons for FDE color differences on firearms?

The primary reasons for FDE color differences are the materials used (e.g., aluminum versus polymer), the specific manufacturing processes employed like anodizing, painting, or injection molding, and variations in production batches from different manufacturers or even the same one over time.

Related News

All News →

More Tactical & Gear Videos You Might Like

More from Brownells, Inc.

View all →