We Do Not Outsource for Coating Work

Published on July 11, 2025
Duration: 2:43

This video from MK3 Firearms details issues encountered with a Gerson MCP35PI after receiving a nitride finish from a third-party vendor. The instructor explains why they do not outsource coating work, citing cosmetic damage like dents and nicks caused by the tumbling process used in nitride application. They emphasize the importance of in-house quality control and the challenges of managing outsourced finishes.

Quick Summary

MK3 Firearms avoids outsourcing firearm coatings due to quality control concerns, citing cosmetic damage like dents and nicks from third-party nitride finishing processes. They emphasize that issues arising from outsourced work are difficult to rectify if the shop doesn't perform the service in-house, impacting their quality standards.

Chapters

  1. 00:01Introduction to MK3 Firearms
  2. 00:03Gerson MCP35PI Overview
  3. 00:25Why We Don't Outsource Coatings
  4. 00:48Nitride Finishing Issues: Tumbling Damage
  5. 01:08In-House vs. Outsourced Finishes
  6. 01:46Work Performed on the Pistol
  7. 01:59Trigger and Sights
  8. 02:08Hammer and Grips
  9. 02:15Conclusion on Outsourcing

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main reasons MK3 Firearms avoids outsourcing firearm coating work?

MK3 Firearms avoids outsourcing firearm coatings primarily due to quality control issues. They have experienced cosmetic damage, such as dents and nicks, from third-party nitride finishing processes like tumbling, which they cannot rectify if they don't perform the service in-house.

What specific cosmetic defects were observed on the Gerson MCP35PI after nitride finishing?

After nitride finishing, the Gerson MCP35PI exhibited cosmetic defects including a dent on the slide, a nick near the slide serrations, and a chunk missing from the bushing. These issues were attributed to the tumbling process used by the third-party vendor.

What type of firearm is the Gerson MCP35PI, and what custom work was performed?

The Gerson MCP35PI is described as a commander-size High Power pistol with a full-size grip and a shortened slide. Custom work included an under-trigger guard take-up, an 11-degree crown on the bushing, two-stage trigger jobs, and installation of Trijicon HD front sights and Heinie Milspec Ledge rear sights.

Why is in-house quality control crucial for firearm finishing services?

In-house quality control is crucial because it allows a shop to directly manage the finishing process and ensure it meets their standards. When outsourcing, a shop loses direct oversight, making it difficult to address issues like cosmetic damage that can occur during third-party processes.

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