Tech Tip: How to Parkerize Your Firearm

Published on October 26, 2016
Duration: 5:36

This video provides a comprehensive guide to Parkerizing firearm parts, a durable phosphate coating process. It details the necessary equipment, critical surface preparation steps including roughening and degreasing, and the solution mixing and heating procedures. The guide emphasizes material compatibility, proper immersion times, and post-treatment oiling for optimal corrosion resistance and wear protection.

Quick Summary

Parkerizing is a durable, corrosion-resistant phosphate coating for steel firearm parts that creates a porous layer to absorb oil, protecting against wear and rust. Key steps include thorough surface preparation, heating the solution to 195°F, immersing parts for 5-15 minutes, and applying post-treatment oil.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Parkerizing
  2. 00:33Required Equipment
  3. 01:05Surface Preparation
  4. 01:29Disassembly and Material Sorting
  5. 02:13Removing Old Finish
  6. 02:52Solution Preparation and Seasoning
  7. 03:31Cleaning and Degreasing
  8. 03:52The Parkerizing Process
  9. 04:31Post-Treatment Oil

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Parkerizing and why is it used on firearms?

Parkerizing is a tough, corrosion-resistant phosphate coating for steel firearm parts. It creates a porous layer that absorbs oil, providing protection against wear and rust. It was widely adopted for military weapons due to its durability and protective qualities.

What essential equipment is needed for DIY firearm Parkerizing?

You'll need a heat source (like a stove or grill), a thermometer, a non-reactive vessel (stainless steel), parkerizing concentrate, atomized steel powder for seasoning, coffee filters, and wire for suspending parts during the process.

How do I prepare the firearm parts for Parkerizing?

Proper surface preparation is critical. Parts must be stripped of old finishes and roughened using 180-220 grit sandpaper or sandblasting. Ensure all parts are made of regular steel and are surgically clean and degreased before immersion.

What temperature and time are required for the Parkerizing process?

The parkerizing solution, typically manganese phosphate, should be heated to approximately 195°F. Parts are then immersed for 5 to 15 minutes, or until the bubbling reaction stops, before being rinsed and oiled.

More Gunsmithing & DIY Videos You Might Like

More from Brownells, Inc.

View all →