Lone Star Gunsmithing and Cerakote Serives
Small parts like triggers, pins and takedown levers can make fun accent pieces when Cerakoted in contrasting colors. Whether you’re doing it for aesthetics or to protect from corrosion, be sure that the firearm is disassembled and pliable before starting.
How Cerakote Works
Cerakote is a ceramic coating that can be applied to metal, plastic and polymer firearm components. It is an extremely durable finish that can be applied in a wide variety of colors and layered to create patterns. It is a popular choice for gun owners looking to customize their firearms or improve corrosion resistance.
The cerakoting process involves thoroughly cleaning and prepping the parts to be coated, then spraying them with thin layers of the desired 
color. The pieces are then cured in an oven, which creates the tough ceramic coating that adheres to the material surface.
The cured coating is resistant to solvents, oils, cleaners and salt spray, which helps protect the underlying firearm parts from damage. It also resists nicks, scratches and scuffs better than traditional blueing or paint finishes. The ceramic polymer coating is 3-5 times harder than steel and can withstand high impact forces without degrading. It is also highly corrosion resistant, holding up to 800 hours of salt spray testing per ASTM B117 standards.
Why Cerakote is Better
Cerakote’s abrasion resistance, corrosion resistance, hardness and durability make it an outstanding protective coating for firearms and other equipment that see significant use in harsh environments. This is particularly true for firearms, which can experience high temperatures and exposure to chemicals and cleaning solutions that could degrade the metal surface if not properly protected.
Cerakote can easily withstand up to 800 hours of salt spray testing per Cerakote standard ASTM D610, meaning that even in the most extreme environments, it will not react and protect the underlying gun parts from rust or corrosion. It’s also highly heat resistant, which makes it an excellent option for firearms that can generate substantial heat and impact during rapid firing and sustained shooting scenarios.
With proper care and maintenance, your gun will retain its durable finish and attractive appearance for years to come. Simply keep it clean and lubricated, and touch up any worn areas with more Cerakote as needed.
Cerakote Options
Cerakote is available in a wide range of colors and patterns, making it easy to customize your firearms. It can also be applied to many different types of materials including metal, wood and polymers. This versatility makes it an excellent option for gunsmiths to offer as a durable finish upgrade on custom or aftermarket parts.
A Cerakote finish withstands a lot of chemicals and moisture, keeping your guns safe from corrosion. It also bolsters the material strength of your guns, making them more impact resistant and less likely to be damaged by scratches or nicks. It also acts as an effective lubricant, cutting down on gun oil use.
You can have your firearms coated at home with a DIY kit, but it is recommended to work with a professional to ensure that the process is done properly. This includes complete disassembly of your firearm and sandblasting to make sure the coating sticks. This is an extremely delicate process that requires a lot of attention to detail.
Cerakote Pricing
Whether your AR rifle lower receiver and handguard need to be professionally cerakoted or you’re looking to transform your whole gun with an eye-catching color pattern, Lone Star Gunsmithing and Cerakote can provide a range of services that fit your aesthetic and functional needs. Pricing varies based on the type of work and complexity required.
When properly applied, Cerakote is a tough ceramic polymer coating that bonds directly to the material surface. It is resistant to abrasion, impact, chemicals, and corrosion, and can help your firearm last longer while maintaining its appearance and functionality.
