i thought i would put this on as info. i blued a hawkins for a close friend. i am good at this too but have not done it for 30 years, ha. anyhow, it came out good but color is BLACK on that birchwood kit.owner did not like that black color.i put on 7 coats and heated with propane torch. so, i sent it in for him to THOMPSON ARMS.it is 65 dollars to have it blued and it comes out like a black with blue tint.looks like new barrel.for cost i think this is best way to go.it will stay on much better too than kit blue as they cook it for 30 minutes at 370 degrees. i may send in my barrel also as it is seen rough time hunting for last 40 years in laural here in pa.take care.