Thanks Mike and Mike. Just Another great idea By Mike Sirois. The finish is also something new by Mike. I chose that little bit on the end of the barrel to be smooth though
This isn't a completely finished barrel yet. It will have a Black oxide coloring when complete. Mike is going to see if that small section at the front of the barrel can be done in a silver finish kinda like the Carbon fiber barrels for the Ruger 1022s. Should look cool. Correct me if i'm wrong Mike, but I believe this is the process below.
The advantages of Black Oxide are:
No dimensional changes: The as-formed dimensions do not change (as they do when plated or painted). Black Oxide is a coloring of the base metal, no metal is removed or deposited.
Dark black color: (No patina or rainbow effect) The surface of the part may be shiny or matte depending on the surface of the part and the after finish applied. For example, a polished surface will retain its luster after black oxidizing.
The finish will not chip, peel, flake, or rub off: Black Oxide can only be removed by mechanically or chemically removing the finish itself.
Reduces light glare (reflection): Black Oxide makes an excellent finished surface for moving parts such as hand tools and machine parts. The reduction in reflectivity reduces eye fatique and is less distracting.
Can be coated for additional protection: Black Oxide finishes with supplementary treatments ("after-finishes") improve the appearance, abrasion resistance, and corrosion resistance of the part to which they are applied. The normal after-finishes are Oil, Wax, Lacquer, and Chromic Seals. The part configuration and the end-use will help to determine which after-finish to specify.
Improved lubrication characteristics: Black oxidized parts have improved lubricity and anti-galling characteristics due to the after-finish (oil or wax) resulting in smoother running, mating parts.
Color change resistant to temperature: Black Oxide finishes can be exposed to a temperature of 900 degrees F. (482 degrees C.) before the color begins to change.
No hydrogen embrittlement: The Black Oxide process does not require an acid activation nor is it an electro-process; therefore, hydrogen embrittlement is not a factor. If the parts are scaled or rusty and an acid pickle is required, any hydrogen that may have evolved will quickly dissipate in the Black Oxide tank (running temp. 285 degrees F). Any remaining hydrogen will be completely dissipated within 48 hours after processing.
No white corrosion: The finished part does not have a "white-corrosion" state as some electro-plated parts exhibit over time. This makes Black Oxide an excellent finish for parts used internally on electronic components. The small white corrosive flecks are conductive and may cause an electrical short.
Weldable: Welding Black Oxided parts does not produce noxious fumes nor hamper the ease with which a part can be welded as may be encountered by welding plated or painted parts.
Jules you sure know how to make others think about spending money. I think after getting my 221 barrel from OTT the next project would be a step up barrel in 7TCU 15 inches. Wandering old minds