Soft anodized or hard anodized?

[cpatbay]

I am about to anodize my lower and was given a choice to do either soft or hard anodized. According to the gal, soft anodized is the "normal" way they do for lowers but hard anodized would give more protection. Should I go soft or hard anodized? Should I worry about hard anodized giving me problems with all the drilled holes being a little smaller after hard anodizing?

[Jeymz]

I had type2 anodizing done on my lower. The buffer tube threads, pistol grip threads, and pin hole for the bolt catch were all fairly tight but I still got them to go in.

[cpatbay]

So type 2 is hard anodized? Also, look wise, which is better?

[peacedivision]

Type III hard anodized class II dyed black.

[-hanko]

I am about to anodize my lower and was given a choice to do either soft or hard anodized. According to the gal, soft anodized is the "normal" way they do for lowers but hard anodized would give more protection. Should I go soft or hard anodized? Should I worry about hard anodized giving me problems with all the drilled holes being a little smaller after hard anodizing?

Drilled holes will lose a little diameter no matter if the process is 'soft' or 'hard.

Lowers are typically hard anodized, soft anodizing is normally for decoration...e.g., lawn furniture.

-hanko

[jsipe007]

Go with hard anodize. It will last much longer and be much more impervious to scratches.

[cpatbay]

Sounds like a plan. Thanks!

[DirtyDave]

Type II is soft and will not build up more than about .0005"
Type III is Hard and will build up about .001"-.002"

[tanakasan]

^^This exactly! Type III for the win.

robert