Well I finally have a 1" Ross Brake in stainless steel. Been waiting on bushmaster's slow shipping on more crush washers. While waiting, I've decided I want to blacken this brake to match the factory 20" Barrel color (parkerized).
I know Parkerizing doesn't really take to SS.
I know it can be properly prepped, and painted. But I am the type that will go through hell to do it right the first time. No BBQ paint for me, no matte black paint that doesn't match. Also realize there's a new color of Duracote Labeled Parkerized that may satisfy my eye. But even with the proper prep work, a good oxide blast, followed by a thorough cleaning, spraying and cure time, will it hold up over the long haul?
http://www.rap4.com/p/016943/duracoat-shake-and-spray-kit-parkerized
I've read of another method that old timers use to blacken stainless, whereby they coat the SS item in linseed oil, and heat with a torch, let cool, and repeat after using another coating of linseed.
Which brings us to even more methods, ie chemical treatments listed here
http://www.finishing.com/0000-0199/019.shtml
and
http://www.caswellplating.com/metal-finishing-solutions/stainless-steel-blackener/stainless-steel-blackener-gel-kit.html
The thing that bothers me about the chemical stuff, is changing the properties of the stainless on the surface, which may allow corrosion and/or rust.
My head is spinning, and I still am no closer to getting this done.
Anyone tried any of this? and do you have pictures of the color match? Mainly, is it holding up (no chipping)? Is it non-porous, and lend well to cleaning?