Kibler's Longrifles Knowledge Base

How would a WoodsRunner have been finished historically, in terms of barrel and lock color?

A rifle could have been left in the white or polished bright, which would develop a patina over time unless cared for immaculately, and that patina look is popular today and can be simulated with Kibler's Jax's-brand products. Charcoal bluing is another historical option, where polished steel parts are heated to around 900 degrees in the presence of charcoal to produce a deep bluish color similar to rust bluing, though it is complicated. Temper bluing, heating parts to around 600 degrees for a bright blue color, is a less durable but attractive option that was likely used on some long rifles too.

Category: Building & FinishingTopics: Woodsrunner|Bluing|Finishing|Video Transcript

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