When it comes to protective coatings for firearms, durability is king. And it should be. Consumers are of course interested in longevity and durability when choosing a finish for their guns. In this blog post, we’re going to compare two popular options: Cerakote and traditional paint.
What is Cerakote?
Cerakote is a ceramic-based finish that has become pretty popular in recent years, particularly in the firearms and automotive industries. It’s known for its exceptional durability, heat resistance, and thin application layer.
Spray Paint
Spray paint has been a common choice for gunowners. It’s versatile, widely available, and comes in countless color options. As well, spray paint is used to hide from infrared light. But how does spray paint stack up against Cerakote in terms of durability?
Cerakote vs. Spray Paint Durability Comparison
- Scratch Resistance: Cerakote excels in this area. Its ceramic composition makes it highly resistant to scratches and abrasions. Spray paint is generally more susceptible to scratching.
- Chemical Resistance: Cerakote offers superior resistance to chemicals, solvents, and oils. Traditional spray paint typically doesn’t match Cerakote’s performance.
- UV Resistance: Both Cerakote and high-quality paints offer good UV resistance. However, Cerakote tends to maintain its color and gloss longer under prolonged sun exposure.
- Heat Resistance: This is where Cerakote truly shines. It can withstand temperatures up to 1800°F without failing. Spray paints generally can’t compete with this level of heat resistance.
- Thickness and Weight: Cerakote can be applied in extremely thin layers (1-2 mils), adding minimal weight. Traditional spray paint often requires thicker application, which can add more weight to the finished product.
Closing Thoughts
While traditional paint remains a versatile and cost-effective option for many applications, Cerakote offers superior durability in most categories. Its exceptional resistance to scratches, chemicals, and heat makes it an excellent choice for high-wear items or those exposed to extreme conditions.
However, the choice between Cerakote and traditional paint ultimately depends on your specific needs, budget, the nature of the item being coated, and time frame. Consider factors such as the expected wear and tear, environmental exposure, and desired aesthetics when making your decision.
Speaking of aesthetics, we want to make sure everyone knows that Geissele will soon no longer be manufacturing OD Green. At Aegis, we are offering a Geissele Super Duty Package in ODG. If you’re interested, you’ll want to order now before they are completely sold out. Our packages include an upper receiver, lower receiver, and optional buffer tube and/or charging handle.
If you are interested in getting any type of Cerakote finish for your firearm, please get in touch.