A rifle scope is more than a mechanical accessory — it can improve your shooting accuracy, maintain your weapon’s coherence, and add a personalized touch altogether. One of the effective ways to protect and personalize your scope is by applying the Cerakote: a durable, heat-resistant ceramic-based finish, renowned for its exceptional resistance to abrasion, corrosion, and scratches. This blog post aims to provide a step-by-step guide on how to Cerakote a rifle scope by yourself while preserving its functionality and adding a unique touch.
Understanding Cerakote
Cerakote is a spray-on ceramic coating enhancing the resilience and looks of firearms and accessories. Notable for its hardness, wear-resistance, and corrosion protection, even in thin applications, Cerakote has become the go-to firearm finish around the globe. It uses unique ceramic technology that imparts the coating with thermal resistance of up to 1800°F and a high level of flexibility preventing chips or cracks.
Materials and Tools Needed
Before you begin the Cerakoting process, it’s essential to have the correct tools readily available. Prepare these items to assure smooth operation and a high-quality finish. Please be reminded that Cerakote is toxic when inhaled; hence, proper protective equipment should be worn throughout the process.
- Cerakote
- AHVLP Spray Gun or Airbrush
- Air compressor
- Adequate Personal Protection Equipment (PPE)
- Oven
- Powder Coating Preparation Spray
- Degreaser
- Heat resistant tape
Steps to Cerakote a Scope
Step 1: Disassembling The Scope
Any Cerakoting operation begins by taking apart your scope. Make sure you don’t have to disassemble the whole device; just separate the necessary components that require the Cerakote finish.
Step 2: Pre-Cleaning
Once you have the pieces separated, the next step is to meticulously clean them. Using a powder coating preparation spray or degreaser, thoroughly clean the surface to remove all dirt, grease, and oil.
Step 3: Preparing The Surface
After cleaning, prepare the surface for painting. This might involve gentle sandblasting to rough up the surface, promoting better adhesion of the Cerakote. Remember to tape off any areas where a Cerakote application isn’t required.
Step 4: Mix The Cerakote
Follow the instructions on your Cerakote paint to correctly mix it. The mixture generally includes the Cerakote paint, a hardener, and potentially a reducer. Make sure the mix is shaken well before and throughout the application process to maintain its consistency.
Step 5: Applying The Cerakote
Pour your mixture into the airbrush or spray gun and apply the Cerakote to the scope’s surface. It’s better to apply multiple thin coats rather than one thick coat for a more smooth and professional-looking finish. Always let each coat dry before applying the next one.
Step 6: Curing The Cerakote
The final step involves curing the Cerakote finish using an oven. The temperature and time depend on the type of Cerakote used, so make sure to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer closely. After curing, let the scope cool down before reassembling it.
The Benefits of Cerakoting a Scope
Apart from giving your rifle scope a unique, personalized look, Cerakoting provides numerous other benefits. This includes enhancing the durability and lifespan of your scope, increasing the resistance to scratches, corrosion, and wear, and improving the scope’s heat tolerance. Moreover, Cerakoting won’t affect the functionality of your rifle scope, ensuring you can enjoy these advantages without any compromise on performance.
In Conclusion
To Cerakote a scope may seem like a daunting task, especially for beginners. However, with careful preparation and an understanding of the process, anyone can handle this task. It’s incredibly satisfying to see your scope transform with a new, durable, and personalized Cerakoted finish, especially knowing it was done by your own hands. So, set aside your apprehensions, arm yourself with the right equipment and get ready to give your rifle scope that all important Cerakote makeover!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How permanent is Cerakote?
Cerakote is an extremely durable coating that offers long-lasting protection. When applied correctly and cured properly, Cerakote forms a strong bond with the metal surface, making it resistant to wear, impact, corrosion, and chemicals. With proper care, a Cerakote finish can last for many years.
2. What are the disadvantages of Cerakote?
While Cerakote is a high-quality coating, it does have a few disadvantages. One drawback is that Cerakote requires professional application as it involves complex processes, such as surface prepping, mixing, and curing. Additionally, Cerakote can be quite expensive compared to traditional gun finishes. Lastly, Cerakote may alter the weight and dimensions of the firearm, albeit minimally.
3. Does Cerakote stick to stainless steel?
Yes, Cerakote can be applied to stainless steel surfaces. Stainless steel provides a good surface for adhesion, but it is important to properly prepare the stainless steel to ensure a strong bond. This typically involves degreasing, cleaning, and abrasive blasting the surface before applying the Cerakote coating.
4. Is Cerakote worth it on a rifle?
Whether Cerakote is worth it on a rifle depends on personal preference and specific needs. Cerakote offers several advantages, such as enhanced protection against corrosion, scratches, and harsh environmental conditions. It also provides the opportunity to customize the appearance of your rifle with numerous color options. However, it is important to consider the cost and whether the added benefits justify the investment for your particular use and budget.
5. Can Cerakote be removed?
Cerakote can be removed, but the process can be time-consuming and may require professional assistance. The most common method of removing Cerakote is through abrasive blasting, which essentially strips the coating off the surface using high-pressure media. Chemical strippers can also be used, but they require careful handling and may affect the underlying material.
6. Does Cerakote provide any heat resistance?
Yes, Cerakote exhibits excellent heat resistance. The coating can withstand temperatures up to 1500°F (816°C), making it suitable for various firearm applications, including barrels, suppressors, and high-heat components. However, it is important to note that prolonged exposure to extreme heat can still affect the performance and longevity of the Cerakote coating.
7. Can Cerakote be applied to plastic or polymer parts?
Cerakote can be applied to certain plastic or polymer parts. However, not all plastics or polymers are compatible with Cerakote due to their composition and potential heat sensitivity. It is always recommended to consult a professional or the manufacturer of the specific part before attempting to apply Cerakote to plastic components or accessories.
8. Can Cerakote be applied to optics or the lenses of a scope?
No, Cerakote should not be applied to optical lenses or any part of the scope that needs to remain clear and distortion-free. Cerakote is a thick and opaque coating that can compromise the performance and clarity of lenses. When dealing with optics, it is best to protect them from overspray during the Cerakote application process.
9. Does Cerakote require any special maintenance?
Cerakote is a low-maintenance coating, but it still benefits from proper care. To maintain its performance and longevity, it is recommended to clean the coated surface regularly to remove dirt, debris, and corrosive substances. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or solvents that may damage the coating. Additionally, storing firearms with Cerakote in a controlled environment and using protective cases or sleeves can help prevent unnecessary wear and damage.
10. Can Cerakote be applied over existing finishes?
Yes, Cerakote can be applied over existing finishes after proper surface preparation. The existing finish should be thoroughly cleaned, degreased, and lightly abraded to create a surface with good adhesion properties. However, keep in mind that Cerakote is only as durable as the surface it is applied to, so any existing finish issues or damage may impact the overall performance and longevity of the coating.
