Stainless barrel

[calwoodbutcher]

Let's say I obtained a 20" stainless barrel.

Not wanting to attract attention I would prefer it be black.

What is the best material and method to use?

[Fjold]

If I have a bright steel barrel that I want less visible, I bead blast it and it turns a light gray which is even less noticeable than black.

All three of these are stainless barrels, the bottom barrel is bead blasted while the upper ones aren't.

[pklin1297]

Depending on where you are, you can either take it to Techplate for stainless-bluing, or take it to a local cerakote applicator to turn it black.

[pklin1297]

Depending on where you are, you can either take it to Techplate for stainless-bluing, or take it to a local cerakote applicator to turn it black. That or Burlington for melonite.

[craneman]

Or scuff it up with 320 grit paper and shoot it with high heat BBQ paint. I am sure my response will go over like a turd in a punch bowl to a few here, but to me, my rifles are utilitarian. Function above all else, besides I am on a budget.

So you see, "best" is pretty subjective.

[hermosabeach]

Electrical tape....

Not sure how a stainless barrel will attract attention....

[ar15barrels]

I use Pentrate Processing for black oxide to make stainless barrels black.

[baih777]

Cerakote matte black would be the best.
if you just want to take the shine away and just dull it up.
grey scotchbrite works also.

http://www.oreillyauto.com/site/c/detail/MMM0/37448.oap

I actually put the barrel in a lathe . don't know how it will work by hand.
try it on a area inside the handguard on the bottom side of the barrel.

[kcstott]

Black oxide first choice, then Cerokote

[calwoodbutcher]

Thanks for all the good info people. Uh, sans the electrical tape comment.