I'm getting ready to refinish my T/C Hawkins flintlock which will involve browning the barrel and triggers. Is there anything special I need to know about to insure an even finish given the fact that it is currently blued? I've browned before, but this was on bare hardware. I'm worried about splotches, etc....

Also, I'll be hot browning it with a propane torch if this makes any difference.

Thanks,

Fritz

I have a T/C Hawken that was originally a kit. The fellow who had it didn't do the best with the blueing. I removed the blueing and used birchwood casey plum brown. I used cotton balls saturated with the plum brown. The wet cotton will absorb the heat rather quickly and roast your fingers. I think I used a small set of needlenosed pliers to hold the cotton.

You can strip the old finish with naval Jelly, a phosphoric acid rust remover available at most hardware store. Once you are back to bare metal, polish to taste, degrease, and you are ready to go. Instead of hot browning, I suggest a cold browning solution by Laural Muntain Forge. Much better looking and more durable than Birchwood Casey's Plum Brown, IME.