Gunsmithing Bead Blasting Media?

[Lostsheep]

Gentlemen,

What glass media do you prefer for blasting a stainless barrel for a durable matte finish?

Thanks,

TK

 

[Brain]

Re: Bead Blasting Media?

I prefer aluminum oxide over glass beads...especially if a true matte finish is what you are after.

I run 80-90 grit for most applications.

 

[Lostsheep]

Re: Bead Blasting Media?

Yesterday I tried some crushed glass, 25-30 Grit.

I'm not entirely satisfied with the result.

 

[drake1]

Re: Bead Blasting Media?

If you plan on putting a coating on it like duracoat and stuff of that nature you will want to use aluminum oxide. the coating will stay on much better.but if your not it just depends on how matte of a finish you want.glass beads being a lighter finsh.

 

[eddief]

Re: Bead Blasting Media?

glass beads polish, use aluminum oxide...Dupont Starblast XL works good.

 

[TCA4570]

Re: Bead Blasting Media?

MSC has a 5 gallon bucket of beads on sale right now.

TC

 

[Lostsheep]

Re: Bead Blasting Media?

Looks like aluminum Oxide is the stuff that I need to be using

 

[Nocalphoenix]

Re: Bead Blasting Media?

In a pinch I have used the paver sand which is 60grit kiln dried. I actually liked the finish better than I was getting with 120 alum but I might also try 80 alum. The nice thing about the sand is I can get it local for about $4 per 50 pounds. I have to have alum shipped and hate paying for the weight.

 

[Glen Seekins]

Re: Bead Blasting Media?

If you want a factory stainless Remington looking finish you need to use glass beads. Only use the Aluminum Oxide if your going to paint it.

test out a spot first before jumping into it..