Lock browning

[Kevin Houlihan]

What should I use to protect the inside of a lock plate and the screw threads when I brown it?
Thanks
Kevin

[FALout]

I spray clear lacquer on the back side and when done, chase threaded holes with tap.

[D. Taylor Sapergia]

I only apply the solution to the outside of the plate, and the edge.  If some slops over onto the polished inside, I simply use some abrasive cloth and remove it.  The screw holes get no special treatment.

[J. Talbert]

I'm with Taylor.  No  special precautions needed.

Jeff

[smallpatch]

I mask the back off with blue masking tape.  Just peel it off when done.  You still need to run a tap through the holes when finished.

[Kevin Houlihan]

Thanks to all. I was figuring something like laquer, but being neat and applying to the outside seems way easier. I prefer a polished lock on a new gun but I'm retrofitting a lock to a rifle that has had some use and a polished lock wasn't going to look right.  While I was typing the post from smallpatch came in. Masking off the back also seems like a good idea.
Thanks
Kevin