Is Cerakote the Ultimate Firearms Finish? Exploring the Pros and Cons of This Popular Coating

In the world of firearms, protecting your investment goes beyond just owning a gun. It's about maintaining its appearance, functionality, and longevity. One of the key considerations when it comes to firearm finishes is Cerakote. But is Cerakote truly the ultimate firearms finish? Let's dive into the pros and cons of this popular coating to uncover the truth.

Understanding Cerakote

Cerakote is a type of thin-film ceramic coating that provides a durable and protective finish for firearms. Originally developed for military applications, Cerakote has gained popularity among gun enthusiasts due to its abrasion resistance, corrosion protection, and versatile color options. This ceramic finish can be applied to various materials such as metals, plastics, and polymers, making it a versatile choice for gun owners looking to customize their firearms.

Advantages of Cerakote

• 1. Outstanding Corrosion Resistance

  • Cerakote is a ceramic-polymer hybrid coating that bonds tightly to metal.

  • Salt-spray tests show it outperforms traditional bluing, parkerizing, and even stainless steel in terms of rust prevention.

  • Ideal for humid, coastal, or high-sweat environments.

  2. Extreme Durability

  • Resistant to scratches, impacts, and chemicals (solvents, gun oils, cleaners).

  • Won’t peel like paint or chip easily like some powder coats.

  3. Versatility of Application

  • Works on metals, polymers, plastics, and even wood.

  • Available in both air-cure (for temperature-sensitive parts) and oven-cure formulas.

  4. Customization

  • Huge palette of colors, camo patterns, and designs.

  • Perfect for personalizing firearms or matching gear setups.

  5. Thin Film Thickness

  • Applied at 0.001" (25 microns), so it doesn’t interfere with tight firearm tolerances.

  • Unlike thick powder coats, slides, bolts, and safeties function normally.

  6.Heat Resistance: Cerakote can withstand high temperatures, making it suitable for firearms that generate significant heat during use.

  
  

Disadvantages of Cerakote

• Cost: Applying Cerakote involves a specialized process, which can be more expensive than traditional firearm finishes.

  • More expensive than traditional finishes.

  • In India, a full Cerakote job can cost ₹6,000– 15,000 per gun, depending on color and complexity.

• Skill Requirement: Achieving a professional Cerakote finish requires skill and expertise, often best left to professionals.

• Thickness: Cerakote adds a layer to the firearm, which may affect the tolerances of certain components if not applied correctly.

• Not a “Forever” Finish

  • Despite its toughness, heavy holster wear or constant metal-on-metal contact will eventually show through.

  • It lasts much longer than bluing or parkerizing, but not indefinitely.

• Repair Challenges

  • If damaged, you usually need to strip and recoat the entire part.

  • Touch-ups are difficult to blend seamlessly.

Is Cerakote Right for You?

Ultimately, the decision to use Cerakote as a firearms finish depends on your priorities. If you value durability, customization, and corrosion resistance, Cerakote could be the ideal choice for your firearms. However, if cost or the need for specialized application is a concern, you may want to explore other finish options.

In conclusion, Cerakote offers a balance of protection and aesthetics for gun owners seeking a high-quality finish for their firearms. By weighing the pros and cons, you can determine if Cerakote aligns with your preferences and priorities when it comes to preserving and enhancing your firearms.

Remember, choosing the right finish is a personal decision based on your unique needs and preferences. Whether you opt for Cerakote or another type of finish, the key is to prioritize the care and maintenance of your firearms to ensure they serve you well for years to come.

Understanding the nuances of firearm finishes is crucial for gun owners, and Cerakote stands out as a popular choice in the industry. By exploring the benefits and considerations of this ceramic coating, you can make an informed decision on whether Cerakote is the ultimate firearms finish for you.