I want to hardchrome a Colt .38spl Detective special for concealed carry use. A plating company told me that they hardchrome guns. They take the gun completely apart with a gunsmith. They then hardchrome all parts except the springs.

One person told me that if I hardchrome my gun, the reliability and functionality of the gun goes out the window. Is this true?

Do you or don't you recommend hardchroming?

Thanks in advance.

Hi Hk, I have not had it done to any of my guns but it used to be all the rage with the IPSC crowd in 2-tone guns or full refinish. I do remember that it's best to have a gunsmith do any tuning you need done before it's Hard Chromed. And, I would only have a place with a good reputation do the work. If done right it will not hurt the reliability of the gun.

Try CheckMate or Robar's NP3 finish..

Thanks guys,,,,i was wondering about NP3....I don't know who does that particular type of finish, until Mark mentioned Robar. I'll try to find them on the web.

Thanks again.