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Cerakote
Cerakote vs. Bluing

CERAKOTE® vs. Bluing

Tested in The Elements.

Cerakote is the global standard for firearm finishes, offering unmatched corrosion protection. It far exceeds traditional bluing in corrosion and chemical resistance, as well as durability, scratch resistance, and wear protection.

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Cerakote

CORROSION RESISTANCE

Cerakote provides exceptional protection against rust and corrosion, even in extreme environments like saltwater exposure.


OIL-FREE MAINTENANCE

Unlike traditional bluing, Cerakote does not require regular oiling to maintain its protective properties, making it lower maintenance.


DURABILITY

It offers superior scratch and wear resistance, ensuring the firearm maintains its finish even with heavy use.


CHEMICAL RESISTANCE

Cerakote is highly resistant to chemicals, solvents, and other harsh substances, maintaining its integrity under tough conditions.


VERSATILITY

Cerakote can be applied to various materials, including metal, polymer, plastic, and wood, making it a versatile choice for many firearm components.


CUSTOMIZABLE APPEARANCE

It comes in a wide range of colors and finishes, enabling both functional and modern, aesthetic customization.


MILITARY-GRADE RELIABILITY

Trusted by military and law enforcement worldwide, Cerakote is proven to perform under extreme conditions.

BLUING


LIMITED CORROSION RESISTANCE

Bluing offers minimal protection against rust and corrosion, especially in humid or salty environments.


HIGH MAINTENANCE

Bluing requires frequent cleaning and oiling to maintain its protective qualities, making it labor-intensive.


LOW DURABILITY

The finish is prone to scratches, wear, and fading over time, especially with regular use.


SUSCEPTIBLE TO CHEMICALS

Bluing is easily damaged by harsh chemicals, solvents, and even exposure to acidic or alkaline environments.


LIMITED VERSATILITY

Traditional bluing is mainly effective on steel and doesn't work well on non-metal or stainless-steel surfaces.


OUTDATED AESTHETIC APPEAL

While some enthusiasts appreciate its classic look, bluing lacks the modern aesthetic customization options.


VULNERABILITY TO WEAR

Constant handling and use can cause the blued finish to wear off, especially in high-friction areas.


We tested Cerakote and traditional bluing by leaving two bolt-action rifles out in the elements of the Pacific Northwest for 15 months and captured what happened by taking a daily photo using a time lapse camera. The rifles were identical, except one was coated with Cerakote, while the other was the OEM, traditional blued finish.



  • Just 12 days into the test, the traditionally blued rifle begins to show signs of corrosion, while the Cerakote rifle shows no signs of corrosion.
  • After over 15 months of being exposed to the elements, the rifle that's been finished with Cerakote ceramic coatings has shown no signs of corrosion, while the traditional factory blued barrel has shown significant signs of corrosion.

Cerakote ceramic coatings provide the durability and corrosion protection you need with the color you want, making it the perfect alternative to bluing. For the best in corrosion protection, Finish Strong™ with Cerakote.

For more information, or if you have questions about whether Cerakote is right for your application, give us a call at 866-774-7628 or email us at outdoors@cerakote.com

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{{ itemJustAddedToCart.product.name }} Swatches are aluminum panels sprayed with Cerakote for DEMONSTRATION AND COLOR REPRESENTATION PURPOSES ONLY. If you desire a testing sample please contact us at info@cerakote.com If your order contains an "Out of Stock" swatch, we will create that swatch for you, then ship your entire swatch order. This can take up to two weeks.
If all swatches are IN STOCK it will ship in 1-3 business days via 2nd Day Air.

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