JAX Black Darkener - Recommended for Iron/Steel Parts

To use JAX Black on iron or steel parts, first clean the metal of all lacquer, oil, grease, and wax. Jim has tested JAX Black on iron and steel parts of flintlocks and recommends it for that use even though the label says brass.

Regardless of what you use to clean metal, use Dawn Dishwashing Liquid as the final cleaning step before applying JAX Black. Clean metal reacts quickly and gives the best result.

Apply JAX Black directly to the metal with a bristle brush, sponge, or rag. You may also dip the entire object into the solution, but do not leave the metal in the solution, or the solution on the metal, longer than necessary.

If you dip metal into JAX Black, you may dilute it with water to slow the reaction and give more control over the finish. There is no fixed dilution ratio. If you apply JAX Black with a brush or sponge, do NOT dilute the solution.

Wash the JAX Black off the metal when the metal is slightly darker than the finish you want. If left on too long, the black will rub off the metal easily.

After rinsing, use steel wool, a polishing cloth, or Scotch-Brite to relieve the finish and reach the desired look. If you remove too much of the blackened finish, you may reapply JAX Black and start over.

To duplicate a particular finish with JAX Black, over-darken the metal first, then relieve it back with steel wool or a polishing cloth until it matches.

Once the finish is where you want it, you may wax, oil, or lacquer the metal as a final step. In many cases leaving the metal unprotected is desirable and produces a period-appropriate look.

Test JAX Black on a small inconspicuous area first to confirm it does not adversely affect or damage the surface being treated.

JAX products do not expire but can deteriorate if not cared for. Store at room temperature in tightly closed original containers in a locked, safe place. Never mix used product with fresh, and never reuse an empty JAX container, because contamination reduces shelf life.

Wear gloves when applying JAX Black so oils from your hands do not transfer to the metal. Eye protection is also recommended.

Always use JAX products in plastic or glass containers, never mix with other chemicals, and dispose of used product and containers at an approved waste facility. Refer to the JAX Black Safety Data Sheet before starting.