Bluing Tips

[NateR]

I just came into possession of an M1 Carbine built probably in the '70s. Dad got this gun from a guy at work that took poor care of it and then it sat at his place for 15 years with nothing done to it. I got it home tonight and started taking notes on what needed to be done. There's a fair amount of rust on the barrel and the bluing is already coming off in certain spots. I was hoping to just strip the whole dang barrel down and start over.

I understand it's going to take some elbow grease to get this job done, but has anyone done this before that can offer some advice? I could take it in and get it done...but I've got way too much free time.

I tried looking through the past posts but couldn't come up with anything that helps...so if I missed a thread, just point me in that direction.

Thanks,
Nate

[couesbitten]

Instead of bluing, look at Brownell's Aluma-Hyde ll. It's an epoxy paint out of a spray can, done right, that stuff is tough as hell, and you can do it at home without much trouble.

[wapiti22]

If it's a military M1 Carbine it will have a parkerized finish

[YellowDog]

If it's a military M1 Carbine it will have a parkerized finish

+1 

My dad has parkerized lots of M1 Carbines and other rifles including all of the M1s owned by his local club.

[CP]

Clean it up but otherwise leave the finish only.  A classic weapon should look like a classic.