Model 36 no dash Gun Kote

[jimologist]

I recently completed a project on an XP-100 where I finished the receiver with Brownell's Gun Kote. Gun Kote is a spray on and bake finish that is durable and attractive. It looks like a fine powder coat and comes in various colors. I used the color called Brushed Stainless Steel.

My question is this; I have an old model 36 no dash that I bought new in the 70's and carried for years (pocket carry) and it is VERY worn. Bluing is probably 70-75% at best but no rust and the gun has only been shot 20 or 30 times.

What am I to lose by finishing this revolver with Gun-Kote? In my opinion it has no value other than as a very worn shooter and the Gun Kote will at least make it attractive. Am I wrong in this thinking?

For those of you unfamiliar with Gun Kote there are several very good videos on You Tube ( and Brownell's website). It is only .004 thick when applied and can be sprayed in revolver and semi-auto actions.

I sprayed it right in the XP-100 and have no problems with bolt binding or stickiness.

Thanks in advance for the input.

 

[Flint Ridge]

My thoughts.

First it is your Smith and you can do with it as you please.

I do not think it will "increase" the value.

Not certain what the gain will be.

However, how could you only shoot it that little?

 

[Ed45]

I love projects like that. The only problem I could forsee is the critical margin where the sideplate fits. If you spray with the side plate on when you remove it its going to bugger the finish. If you spray the sideplate detached, when you re-install it that edge might get funky. You probably have to carve some wooden plugs for screw holes. Please provide progress reports and good luck with your efforts. Ed

 

[Decker]

Heavily worn blue pistols are a dime a dozen unless they are very rare models or have a very special, documented history, so there's no worry about affecting the value if you put a finish on it.

I'd do it just because it's cheap, and if you end up not liking it or it turns out to not be durable, then perhaps it might be worth spending the money to have the pistol done professionally in a satin chrome finish of some type.

Basically, nothing to lose, so go for it.