Barrel Finishing Methods

[Kaintuckkee]

Whats a good method to finish a barrel to give it a original or antique look? I have seen several here that looked nice I am just not sure what to use I have Laurel Mountain browning and various cold blues,your input appreciated,photos would be a plus also

[Fred_Dwyer]

I'd forget the cold blues, they're about as lasting as this mornings' dew.
The browning is good, but I'm starting to take a liking to a bleached barrel for the truly "weathered" look. Thought there was a pictorial how-to but I'm not finding it. Not the pix I was looking for but sufficient...

[Daryl]

Over a period of time, the bright steel will take on the proper patina- as-did the originals.  Use it, don't look for a quick and easy 'fix'. It's amazing how quickly the vent area takes on it's 'proper' appearnace. The rest of the barrel and lock plate will follow suit.

[Kaintuckkee]

Thats sounds interesting Daryl.....easy to.....I may just go that route....what time frame are we talking here,any idea?

[Daryl]

Years of use to make big changes, but changes seem to occur within a week or two, ie: shooting every now and then.  Just sitting with oil will not change anything.

I think the problem with most caustics, is it looks like it's been hit with something like that - clorox, etc. I prefer the gradual changes - which nature does.

[axelp]

I have a fowler barrel that was finished just "white" and it was less than two seasons of moderate use, and it had a very nice mild patina that is getting better every season....

If it were me, I'd just let it age naturally.

K

[Daryl]

Same with Tayor's Virginia. If he'd use it more this winter, instead of that little .40 Kuntz, it would look even better.