re blackening stainless (686-3)

[serger]

I got a 686-3 cylinder I'm going to
send off to get set up for 9mm moon
clips. It's skinned up. Based on what
I've read it's a 400 series stainless.

Has anyone refinished a blackened
Stainless S&W revolver?

 

[AJR337]

If you're looking to convert a stainless revolver to black, I'd recommend going with nitride.

 

[Fishinfool]

My experience with the "Blueing" S&W used on their earlier SS revolvers was less than satisfactory as far as wear and durability, at least on our 1980's issue model 66's.

Although I am not up on the exact formulas and methods manufacturers are now using on SS guns, many are very durable and long lasting. The "Kim Pro II" finish, for example, on a SS 1911 I own that sees a lot of holster time still looks like new. The problem might be finding one that matches the original finish with the rest of the gun.

Larry