How to Cerakote at Home: A Step-by-Step Guide
Ever since Cerakote entered the market in 1984, it has revolutionized operators ability to customize and protect their firearm investments.
Cerakote is a type of coating used on firearms and firearm accessories (among other things) to enhance durability, but to also add personality. This coating is available in a plethora of colors and provides an additional layer of protection from wear and tear.
Custom jobs can range from simple coatings of single colors to pieces of art on par with Michaelangelo.
But Cerakoting firearms can be an expensive process. Many firearms manufacturers offer stock models pre-Cerakoted, but many do not. Add to that, that over time, the Cerakote may need to be touched up or redone.
If you are the DIY type, you may be inclined to Cerakote at home without the long wait times and hefty in-house price tag. But where to begin? What tools do you need to get started?
We’ve got you covered. We will provide you with a detailed breakdown of the specialized tools you’ll need and a step-by-step process that will help you to safely and efficiently Cerakote your firearm from home.
For more information on the benefits of Cerakote, check out our article on the difference between Anodized and Cerakote.
WHAT CERAKOTE SHOULD I CHOOSE?
For firearms and firearm accessories, it is generally recommended that you use Cerakote H-series, which offers a high level of protection and wide selection of colors. This product comes with a catalyst and requires a 150 Mesh Strainer.
C-series can also be used, but we would only recommend it if you need the ability to handle high heat (V-series also does this), or are coating an item you can’t put into the oven. It has the lowest durability of all the series.
C-series would be a nice starter Cerakote because there’s no baking involved. It allows you to dip your toes into the process without the big commitment to a baking oven upfront.
E-series can also be used. It is the most durable, but has less color options. Many advanced DIY’ers prefer the E-series because of its durability.
THE DIY CERAKOTE AT HOME INSTALLATION PROCESS
Here’s a breakdown of the steps to take for applying Cerakote to your firearm parts.
1. Disassemble your Rifle: Completely take apart your firearm – handguard, barrel, BCG and all. Cerakote should be applied to each part separately. Set aside any polymer parts or springs, as they can be damaged from the heating process.
Additionally, any parts with tight tolerances such as the inside of AR takedown pins or slides of match pistols should be set aside. Cerakote will add additional thickness and may prevent you from reassembling those parts.
We generally recommend Cerakoting the following parts:
- Upper/Lower Receiver
- Handguard
- Barrel
- Slide (for small arms)
- Small Parts (trigger, mag release, pins, bolt catch, and takedown levers)
Remember, document the process for easier reassembling later.
2. Degreasing: Submerge all gun parts in a degreasing solution using a large degreasing pan – this process will require the use of acetone or TSP. The degreasing procedure will remove all traces of oil, dirt, and grime, which could prevent the Cerakote finish from adhering properly to your gun’s components. Let the parts soak in the solution. After a few minutes, remove your gun’s components to air dry.
3. Sandblasting: Once your gun parts are completely dry, they need to be treated with an aluminum oxide media in a blasting cabinet. This treatment provides a rougher surface, known as a blasting profile, that allows the Cerakote to better set to your components’ surface area. Remember, wear protective eyewear and a respirator during this process.
4. Second Degreasing: After applying the oxide media treatment in the blast cabinet, re-soak your rifle’s parts for a second round of degreasing, which ensures that any residue from the oxide media is completely removed.
5. Masking: This is an important step. Be sure to apply a high heat masking tape to shield any areas that should remain uncoated, which include areas of tight tolerance, including the chamber, the bore, or any threaded areas. Applying Cerakote to one of these surfaces will throw the tolerance off and affect your ability to reassemble.
Proper preparation is important to achieve an attractive, durable, and long-lasting finish when Cerakoting your firearm parts. Skipping one of these steps could leave you unsatisfied with the results. Following them will ensure the Cerakote bonds correctly and the parts come out with the protective finish you desire.
6. Hang Your Parts: The next step will be hanging your parts. We recommend you use coat hangers or copper wire for large parts (there are also a number of heavy-duty hooks out there) and floral wire for small parts. These can be used to create hooks or loops, allowing you to succinctly spray multiple parts.
7. Pre-Warm Parts: Next you will want to pre-warm your parts in an oven at 300 degrees. This will burn off any residual oils, giving the Cerakote a warm surface to bond to.
Additionally, this step will also force you to think through how you’re going to organize and place parts within the oven. You want to do this before mixing the Cerakote, because once it is mixed, the countdown to apply begins.
8. Apply Bonding Agent: Next, we’d recommend you apply a coat of ceramic bonding agent. We have seen other instructions online skip this step, which is okay, but we recommend you still do it because this will help the Cerakote adhere to the surface. This can be done with a brush or sprayer, just make sure that all parts are completely covered.
9. Mix the Cerakote:
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and carefully measure and mix the Cerakote and hardener while using a digital scale to ensure accurate ratios. You can achieve your desired finish (matte, satin, or semi-gloss) based on the ratio of hardener you use. The less hardener you use, the less resistant to wear and tear the part will be.
Once the hardener is mixed, you only have two hours to apply it. It will take some experience figuring out the right amount of mix to make in the beginning. It is better to have too much to start with, so that you can finish all of your parts on time, without having to stop and mix more, which could create inconsistencies in the finish.
10. Cerakote Application: First and foremost, follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for proper application to ensure a uniform finish. Use an HVLP spray gun and apply the Cerakote evenly to each of your gun’s components. It is important to make sure that all the parts are completely covered.
Be sure to set the paint gun and air compressor to the right PSI to achieve the best results.
Start with a thinner layer in the small, hard-to-reach areas, and slowly work your way to a thicker coat, avoiding applying too much. You want to avoid overspraying, as too much Cerakote can lead to runs and imperfections, and removing excess finish can be difficult.
You want about a 1 mil thickiness in the high wear areas.
Two to three coats of Cerakote finish are usually enough. Remember, maintain a steady hand at a consistent distance during the application process for best results.
11. Curing: Hang all coated parts in a preheated curing oven. The temperature and time will depend on the type of Cerakote products used, so be sure to check for varying info. Typically, the proper curing temperature for Cerakote is around 250°F (121°C) for two hours, but refer to your manual for the required temperature and cure time.
Pro tip—turn the oven off when placing the parts inside. This will reduce some of the heat, but will allow you to hang the parts to dry with less difficulty.
12. Let Cool and Reassemble: Once the curing process has completed, allow the components time to cool on their own – do not attempt to speed up the cooling process – doing so can damage the durability of the Cerakote finish. After the treated rifle parts have cooled, reassemble your firearm.
13. Drying Time: After reassembling your weapon, allow it to sit undisturbed for at least 24-48 hours to ensure that the Cerakote fully adheres your firearm’s surface.
14. Clean-Up: The last step is an important one. Be sure to properly clean your equipment, especially your paint sprayer, so your equipment is ready to go the next time around.
And there you have it, firearms with a fresh coat of Cerakote!
HOW TO USE STENCILS FOR COOLER DESIGNS
If you want to take your Cerakoting to the next level, you can use stencils to create unique designs and patterns, making them stand out and perhaps adding a personal touch. These allow you to make more intricate designs with fine detail, crisp edges, or stunning artwork.
Choosing Stencils:
- Opt for High Temp vinyl stencils able to withstand 200 degree over cycles.
- For intricate designs, select stencils with fine edges. Beginners should start with simpler stencils.
- Use adhesive-backed low-tack vinyl stencils for multi-layered designs and clean edges. Transfer tape can help move these stencils onto the surface.
- Consider buying sets of common shapes like stars and circles, or create custom stencils for unique designs.
Applying Stencils:
- Clean the surface before applying the stencil to ensure it adheres evenly.
- Press down firmly along the edges of the stencil to secure it. Use repositionable adhesive or masking tape for reusable stencils.
- Apply stencils from largest to smallest area for easier positioning.
- Avoid shifting the stencil once it’s in place to prevent paint seepage.
Tips for Clean Edges:
- Keep the airbrush several inches above the stencil to prevent paint buildup along the edges.
- Apply light coats and build up color gradually to avoid bleeding.
- Move the airbrush in straight motions to prevent paint from drifting under the stencil.
- Clean overspray off reusable stencils immediately to maintain crisp edges.
Removing Stencils:
- Allow the paint to dry before peeling off the stencil to avoid smearing the design.
- Remove the stencil slowly at a sharp angle to maintain clean edges.
- Clean and store reusable stencils promptly for future use.
PRODUCT ROUNDUP: THE TOOLS TO GET STARTED
In order to safely Cerakote your firearms at home, you’re going to need a number of things to begin the process.
Here’s a breakdown of some of the items you’ll need to get started.
3M Reusable Respirator
First thing’s first, you’re going to need a well ventilated staging area. You’re also going to need to protect yourself from the harsh chemical vapors produced by the application of Cerakote to your firearm.
A good respirator is needed, particularly when sandblasting. You don’t want to kick up all of that dust and inhale it, it’ll wreak havoc on your lungs. Be safe, first and foremost.
You’ll need to pick up some additional filters as well.
3M P100 Respirator Cartridge/Filter 60926
Because personal safety should be your top priority, we suggest purchasing 3M-brand respirators and filters for their safe, adjustable design that safeguard you from potential injury by airborne contaminants.
This is the pan we’d recommend for degreasing. It’s actually a restaurant steam pan, but it works really well for this process.
Winco 4-Inch Steam Pan
Before the Cerakote process can begin, your AR’s parts need to be degreased using a specialized solution in a degreasing pan. Using a large, commercial stainless steel pan by Winco because its size and depth compliment the size and width of your AR’s components.
You’ll also want to pick up degreaser. We recommend this stuff from Breakthrough. It’s specifically designed to work with gun products, and comes in one of the largest sized canisters on the market.
Breakthrough Clean Military-Grade Gun Cleaning Solvent
We suggest submerging your firearm’s components into a degreasing solution. We recommend using Breakthrough, which is a military-grade gun degreaser.
Next up, you’ll need an HVLP Spray Gun if you don’t already have one. The ones offered by Cerakote at a bit pricey, but you can pick this one up for about $70.
TCP Global Professional Gravity Feed HVLP Spray Gun
In order to Cerakote your rifle’s components thoroughly, you’re going to need a precision-based spray gun that can speedily and accurately apply Cerakote to your AR parts.
We recommend using the TCP HVLP spray gun on your firearm because it’s an industrial-grade product that’s made specifically for easy multi-surface detailing and customization.
Here’s the air compressor we recommend. You’ll need it for sandblasting and application of Cerakote. Just be sure to check our PSI guide above to ensure you’re applying the coating with the right amount of pressure.
Craftsman Air Compressor, 6 Gallon
You’re going to need a high-pressure compressor in order to properly Cerakote your rifle’s components.
We recommend the portable Craftsman 6-gallon air compressor for its high PSI output, which ensures the proper atomization of the Cerakote into a fine mist for an easy, thinly-layered application.
You’re going to need an air filter that preserves consistent air pressure, while preventing splattering during the Cerakote application process.
This will promote proper airflow and optimal output from your spray gun, while preventing splotching due to a choked air line.
ARO P39344-600-VS Air Filter-Regulator Piggyback, 1/2″ NPT
We suggest using the ARO-FLO air filter piggyback regulator when treating your gun parts with Cerakote. The ARO’s compact, for one, and can be modified and fastened to a multitude of filter elements depending on required air pressure.
The air compressor tends to cause an accumulation of moisture on your firearm’s Cerakote coating, which can cause the finish to poorly adhere to your firearm’s surface and look patchy.
This may not be something you pick up right out of the gate, but if you’re planning to do a lot of Cerakoting we’d recommend it.
Schulz Refrigerated Air Dryer for Air Compressor
We recommend the Schultz refrigerated air dryer to prevent moisture build-up on your firearm’s pieces and secure the sleek-looking colorful polish that you’re after.
You’re going to need a sturdy sandblasting cabinet because it acts as a sterilized staging area for your weapon’s parts.
This cabinet basically functions as a catch-all for hazardous dust and debris during the initial Cerakoting process.
Eastwood B40 Modular Blast Cabinet
For this process, we recommend the Eastwood modular cabinet because it greatly minimizes contact between you and the chemical compounds you’re working with, while centralizing the mess and making cleanup easier.
Once Cerakote has been applied to your AR’s components, it needs to be cured so that the ceramic bond can harden and properly affix itself to the surfaces of your firearm’s parts.
There’s a lot of ways you can do this. We’ve seen people convert old kitchen ranges or use a smoker they picked up at Home Depot. Again, if you plan to do this en masse, something higher end and more durable will be needed.
Eastwood HotCoat 4X4X6 Curing Oven
We recommend the Eastwood curing oven because it utilizes uniform heating distribution, which provides a consistently even level of heat to your AR-15 parts, while further aiding the Cerakote’s hardening process at a molecular level.
Speaking of the curing oven, you’ll want to pick up some hooks for hanging parts inside.
CERAKOTE® Hooks for All Series Coatings
This one pretty much speaks for itself. It’s a collection of various hook sizes. This will be very handy for hanging objects in the curing oven. These hooks will work with any of Cerakote’s coating products.
If you’re mixing Cerakote in measured ratios, you’re going to need a reliable digital scale to avoid overcoating, which can negatively affect the overall durability of the finish during the curing process.
Digital Precision Lab Scale 5000g 0.01g
We recommend the FBL Forelibra Lab Scale because it accurately certifies weights before and after the Cerakote process.
The scale basically provides you with the assurance that the Cerakote finish is evenly distributed across the surfaces of your firearm’s components because an over-application can negatively impact their durability, handling, and performance.
This is more of a luxury item than a must-have. If you plan to do this as a business or want to experiment with your own stencil designs, you’ll need a vinyl cutter for the cutouts.
VEVOR Vinyl Cutter 34Inch Bundle
When applying layers of intricate colors, stencils, or making precision cuts to your AR’s Cerakote finish – whether they be simple or complex in nature – a vinyl cutter can really add a personalized touch to your firearm’s components.
For this process, we suggest purchasing a VEVOR vinyl cutter because you’re able to tailor your firearm’s finish to fit your specific needs with a multitude of customization options to choose from.
There you have it! With the right tools and some practice you can make some really cool designs and add a layer of durability to your firearms.
CERAKOTE MAINTENANCE
To maintain the appearance and integrity of your Cerakote-coated firearms, it’s essential to follow a proper care regimen. Here are some guidelines for preserving the finish:
- Regular Cleaning: After use, gently wipe the firearm with a soft cloth or brush to remove any debris, ensuring you don’t scratch the surface.
- Deep Cleaning: If there’s buildup, lightly dampen a rag with Mineral Spirits and gently clean the firearm. Follow this with a dry wipe using a soft, lint-free cloth.
- Stain Removal: For removing fingerprints or surface stains, lightly apply a mild cleaner like Windex to a soft cloth and gently clean the affected area.
- Protection: Frequently apply a thin layer of gun oil to the firearm, particularly after cleaning. This helps to repel moisture and prevent corrosion.
- Addressing Wear: Over time, areas subject to friction may show wear. When this happens, consider a re-coating. For a full re-coat, remove the old finish completely and reapply Cerakote. For touch-ups, lightly sand the affected area, clean, and reapply Cerakote to just that spot.
By following these care tips, you can ensure that your Cerakoted firearms remain in excellent condition for many years. Regular cleaning, careful handling, and timely maintenance are key.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Remember, the application of Cerakote to your firearm takes both practice and patience. You’ll only achieve the finish you want through experience. If you’re not comfortable with attempting this coating process through trial and error, it’s best to enlist the services of a Cerakote professional.
How did your in-home Cerakote experience go? Tell us about it in the comments.
Aaron Basiliere is a staunch 2A advocate, a firearms researcher, and one of the principal content creators here at CAT Outdoors. He has written in multiple professional capacities for the last 16 years. He has a BA in English Writing from the University of Wisconsin. When not writing for CAT Outdoors he enjoys drinking coffee, watching documentaries, and spending time with his family and friends.
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