The Finish on a Model 39-2 Frame

[martyd]

I have a Model 39-2 with the finish on the frame quite worn.

What is the finish on a Model 39-2 frame?

Does anyone refinish Model 39-2 frames?

Is it similar to Cerakote?

Is it similar to Powder Coat?

Any other refinishing suggestions?

 

[armorer951]

The existing (original) finish is black anodized aluminum. The factory will no longer service these models, so you'll have to find another re-finisher. Members here on the forum may have some additional sources and recommendations.

Keep in mind that refinishing will reduce the value of your 39-2, since the original finish cannot be replicated.

Tech Plate used to refinish aluminum frames. I'm not sure of the quality of their work, as I have not used them in the past. There may be some other firms specializing in this type of finish for firearms components. Tech Plate can apply a variety of coatings including hard anodize, black oxide, black chrome, electroless nickel and PVD.

Tech Plate

 

[martyd]

The finish looks like a thick powder coat, not like anodizing which is thin and usually penetrates the aluminum a little bit.

I have 2 model 39-2 and both have the same finish.

 

[snw19_357]

Then the finish is not original. Models 39, 59, 439, 459, 469, 669, 3903, 3904, etc. are anodized aluminum.

Can you post some pictures of it?

 

[stansdds]

Yep, the factory finish was either black anodizing or nickel plating. If the finish is more like paint, then it is an aftermarket finish. Pics?

 

[martyd]

I stand corrected.

When I get them out of the kitchen and in to the shop with the 5000A lights the true colors/finish shows they are anodized frames.

It helps to have good true lighting and clean glasses

 

[stansdds]

I stand corrected.

When I get them out of the kitchen and in to the shop with the 5000A lights the true colors/finish shows they are anodized frames.

It helps to have good true lighting and clean glasses

Yep, that's the factory anodized finish.

 

[minconrevo]

There is more than one type of anodize. The decorative is nice and shiny/comes in many colors. The hard version comes in black and dove gray only. Hard is more of a matt finish. The original S&W finish did not wear particularly well.

Must be careful refinishing an older aluminum frame gun as often the lettering, especially serial, is not struck deep.

I would suggest leave finish alone.

 

[WR Moore]

It certainly wouldn't be original, but back when, I had a customers 39 frame Armoloyed. This is a matte finish industrial hard chrome with a hardness rating of around 70-74 Rockwell C. It has a molecular bond with the frame metal and is highly wear resistant.