Botched laser graphic

[RiskyBusiness]

Was checking out a co2 laser and there the AR lower moved during the laser engraving. Because this is just the surface of the aluminum what are my options to clean it up to looking like new? painting/anodizing, etc.

[wchutt]

You will have a problem with the image ghosting through an overcoat. You will need to laser over the entire section and then you can Cerakote, not sure about re-anodizing, would probably want to bead blast and then re-anodize.

[RiskyBusiness]

You will have a problem with the image ghosting through an overcoat. You will need to laser over the entire section and then you can Cerakote, not sure about re-anodizing, would probably want to bead blast and then re-anodize.

you really think there will be a significant ghosting problem if i dont laser over it and just bead blast/cerakote? which color cerakote would i need to redo the area of this lower? i wonder if i take it to a professional to just redo the image but with actual engraving over the image. seriously considering investing in one of those fiber lasers to fix it all on my own.

[wchutt]

I think if you bead blast to the point you can no longer see the image you would be ok to cerakote. That said, personally I would worry about the change in texture showing if it is just done in a limited area and just bead blast the whole thing.

[Michael in California]

Bead blast a picture frame of the area and re-laser the thing. i.e. make it a feature, not a mistake.