How durable is DuraCoat?

If applied properly, DuraCoat is permanent. With normal use, a firearm finished with DuraCoat will last several lifetimes.

What is DuraCoat?

DuraCoat is a two part chemical coating. Unlike other firearm finishes, DuraCoat was created specifically for firearms. Other firearm finishes are "spin-off's" from other industries.

Is DuraCoat Teflon based?

No. Teflon is a lubricating coating which is great for internals, but will not wear as well as DuraCoat on the exterior surface of a firearm. DuraCoat's combination of elasticity and hardness creates a finish impervious to impact, scratching and the elements. Some users say DuraCoat displays some lubricating qualities, but this phenomenon was never intended when DuraCoat was created.

Do I have to be a certified finisher to purchase DuraCoat products?

Absolutely not! DuraCoat can be purchased by anyone.  We can supply you with all the resources necessary to apply DuraCoat. Please contact us for pricing and "kits".  Remember, to obtain all the benefits of DuraCoat, the surface must be prepared properly.   Please contact us with any questions you may have.

How do I apply DuraCoat?

DuraCoat can be applied by airbrush, conventional spray gun, or HVLP spray gun.

Can DuraCoat be brushed on?

No, absolutely not. DuraCoat is for spray application only.

Will DuraCoat adhere to hard coat anodizing and Parkerizing?

DuraCoat loves hard coat anodizing and Parkerizing as a base. Both processes leave a good rooting surface for DuraCoat.

Are the Peel 'n Spray templates reusable?

Yes. Most patterns can be used up to 6 times. The MirageFlage pattern is difficult to reuse because of the many angles. To reuse the template, remove from the firearm and place on wax paper for future use.

Do I need a special degreaser?

Yes. Some degreasers, especially those used in the automotive industry, can leave a residue. This residue will form a barrier between the surface and DuraCoat causing a coating failure. We recommend TruStrip degreaser solely for the firearms industry. TruStrip is capable of cleaning the contaminates commonly found on and in firearms and will not leave a residue.

Do I need a special solvent to clean my airbrush or spray gun?

Lacquer thinner will work, but clean your equipment with DuraCoat reducer occasionally. This will keep your airbrush or spray gun in top working condition.

Is reducing DuraCoat required?

Depending on your spray equipment, spray technique, climate and environment your DuraCoat may or may not need reducing. 

Can DuraCoat colors be blended together?

Yes. All DuraCoat colors can be intermixed. With a handful of stock DuraCoat colors, you can create an infinite number of colors by blending them.

When is DuraCoat fully cured?

DuraCoat is dry to the touch in 20 minutes, can be handled in 1 hour and is ready for use overnight. Although DuraCoat will gain most of its final hardness, elasticity and chemical resistance over a 2-3 week period, time will continue to enhance DuraCoat's characteristics over a lifetime. DuraCoat, like fine wine, gets better with age. As we say, "DuraCoat wears in, not out."

Can DuraCoat be applied to wood?

DuraCoat will adhere to any surface that is properly prepared.

I hunt along saltwater. Will DuraCoat withstand the salty environment?

Certainly. DuraCoat is well suited for salty environments. One of DuraCoat's attributes is its extreme ability to resist salt corrosion. A firearm coated with DuraCoat simply will not rust...EVER!

Will DuraCoat burn off my barrel?

DuraCoat can withstand temperatures as high has 500-600 degrees F. With "normal" shooting, your barrel will never get close to being that hot. If you are fortunate enough to own a transferable machine gun, or if you like to "blaze" with your semi-auto, do not put DuraCoat on your barrel, as your barrel temperature will rise to over 1,000 degrees F. In those cases, use DuraHeat. Our DuraHeat coating can handle temperatures up to 1,800 degrees F.

How easy is DuraCoat removed?

Not easily at all. The elastic nature of DuraCoat resists blasting. A qualified individual, with the proper blast media, can safely remove DuraCoat without damaging the surface of the firearm. Be careful. In most cases, we recommend lightly blasting the surface, being cautious not to remove any DuraCoat. Just "beat up" the DuraCoat giving it "tooth" so your new application of DuraCoat has something to adhere to.

Why do other firearm finish manufacturers boast hardness, but make no mention of elasticity?

In the case of firearm finishes, a common misconception is "harder is better". This is faulty "old school thinking". Hardness means brittle and brittle means chipping. DuraCoat, being elastic, will not chip. If your DuraCoat chips, it means you have a preparation problem. Most likely, the surface was not clean. Elasticity provides protection by "giving" when confronted with impact. Elasticity also helps prevent scratches and mars.

What is the turnaround time if I send a firearm to be refinished?

Average completion time is 1-2 weeks. We do get very busy at times and will notify you if it will take longer.