bigtubby, about 22-25 years ago I bought a used Colt National Match with an accompanying Colt .22 conversion kit ,both were armaloyed. I still have that combo and have shot the stink out of it in competition[small time] and recreation. The pistol is a 1960 National Match, I have no idea what year the conversion kit was mated up with the pistol or when the Armaloy was applied. What I do know is ,I had a set of Wichita sights put on in about 1984. I had the rear frame cut for the sight and the front cut for a dovetail 1/10" front sight. The reason I mention this is none of the cuts have ever shown any flaking or chipping or deterioration. I didn't like the frosty dull finish so I GENTLEY hand polished the slide flats to a beautiful shine[without breaking through the finish].This particular pistol has sent 12000-15000 rounds down range since I've owned it. It has fired everything from mild target loads to Speer LE "flying ashtrays". It has been carried in duty holsters, exposed, concealled and competition rigs and with the exception of one little "scuff" on the dulled top of the slide show no damage,rust, pitting or peeling.It is ,in short, one heck of a finish! The only thing I didn't like was the dull whitish hue. I like a little accent "bling". Now, last year I had Bob Cogan at Accurate Weapons and Plating re-do a different [1969] National match frame in hard chrome. This had been done by Nitex for me prior to my trip to Germany at "Uncles" expense.The space above and behind the right grip had started to deteriorate. I got to Germany and it wasn't 6 months before the finish flaked off where the original problem was[poor polish and cleaning?]. I'm in FRG and can't send the piece home for warranty so, I'm had. I took the gun to Cogan[ awpcogan.com] and they did a job that would satisfy angels. I also have a .22 Colt SA NF that they did. I wasn't happy with the little Colt so what does a guy like Bob Cogan do? He re did the gun so well, well let's just say I couldn't be happier. If you like the appearance of the Armaloy you won't be dissapointed , if you don't, PM me I have a blued 3 1/2 I'll talk to you about in trade. Regards, Nick