Americans spend about 6 hours a day on their phones doing non-work-related activities. You have to wonder, how much of that time might be better spent. When it comes to time, we sometimes get asked, “How long does it take to put a Cerakote finish on a gun?”
Cerakoting a gun typically takes between three to four days, but it can extend up to two weeks or even a month in some cases. You might be thinking, “That’s quite a difference in time frame.” Yes, it is. Let’s take a look at the factors that can influence how long it takes to get a Cerakote finish for your gun.
What Is Cerakote?
For those new to our blog, let’s start with the basics. Cerakote is a ceramic-based finish that can be applied to various materials, including metals, plastics, polymers, and wood. This high-performance coating offers numerous benefits:
- Enhanced wear resistance
- Improved corrosion resistance
- Increased chemical resistance
- Greater impact strength
- Superior hardness
Why Choose Cerakote for Your Firearm?
Gun owners choose Cerakote finishes for two primary reasons:
- Aesthetics: Cerakote allows for unique customization. Whether you prefer a classic look or want to make a bold statement, the possibilities are pretty much limitless.
- Durability: The exceptional protective properties of Cerakote significantly extend the lifespan of your firearm.
The Cerakote Process: A Closer Look
Here’s why the Cerakote process can take from a few days to several weeks:
- Disassembly: The firearm is completely taken apart.
- Sandblasting: Each component is carefully sandblasted.
- Cleaning: A thorough cleaning removes any residue or oils.
- Application: Cerakote finish is meticulously sprayed onto each part.
- Initial Baking: Coated parts are placed in a specialized oven to cure.
- Stenciling (if requested): For custom designs or patterns.
- Final Baking: A final curing process ensures durability.
- Reassembly: The firearm is carefully put back together.
- Quality Control: A final inspection ensures high standards are met.
Factors Affecting Timeframe
Several variables can impact the duration:
- Design complexity: Intricate patterns or multi-color schemes require more time.
- Firearm size and type: Larger firearms or those with many components take longer.
- Current workload: A backlog may extend the waiting period.
- Additional services: Engraving or other customizations can add to the timeline.
Post-Cerakote Care
After receiving your firearm back, patience is key. We recommend waiting at least three days before you use your gun. This allows the coating to fully harden.
Is the Wait Worth It?
While a two-week or month-long wait may seem like a long time, we believe the end result justifies the time investment. A properly applied Cerakote finish improves your gun’s appearance and can also improve its longevity and performance.
Quality takes time, and when it comes to protecting or enhancing your firearm, it’s worth the wait. We hope this blog answers your question. If you are interested in getting a Cerakote finish for your firearm, please get in touch.