I mix my own using the Baker Modified formula that is in the Old
Clyde Baker Gunsmithing book. It does a great job.One of my gunshop friends has had me mix it for him for doubles for years. I will post the formula later today
Here it is:
For Steel Shotgun Barrels:
Potassium Chlorate 5 %
Sodium Nitrate 6%
Potassium Nitrate 2 %
Mercuric Chloride 5%
Water qs
For a blacker and faster solution use 2% Ammonium Chloride
Etching Solution (for Pre Etch)
Nitric Acid 1 oz
Water 240 ml ( 8 oz)
Use the boiling water process, swabbing on CLEAN and prepared barrels, boil 2 minutes at a time, steel wool and continue about 10 times until desired finish is achieved. Wash with hot clean water and oil . Burnish with Steel wool and oil to
finish proper luster.
I modified Mr. Bakers solution to bring solubilities to more scientific levels and deleted an inert ingrediant or two. I also usually add Ammonium Chloride to help the process and found the Potassium Chlorate speeds
the oxidation and quality of the job.
Last edited by Stallones; 07/31/09 05:09 PM.
