sandblasting question

[fpasuncion]

What type of media should I use to sandblast a reciever before painting?
...and where can I buy it?

[We The People Firearms]

I like alluminum oxide. Cleaner than sand if you ventilate it out correctly, and it lasts longer. It's more expensive, about 40 bucks for 44 pounds, but I think in the long run it's better. I get it at China Freight (Harbor Freight). I think the stuff I have right now is 80 grit. Blasts a whole gun in minutes.

[kendog4570]

Aluminum Oxide is best. I use 320 grit. Available through industrial abrasive suppliers.

[motorhead]

alox. h/f only has the course stuff. i'd like a good (cheap) source for the finer stuff myself. i've got a bud that does glass commercially, i'll check with him and report back.
watch using sand, silicosis is nasty.

[kendog4570]

National Abrasives in San Leandro (near Oakland) has all grits for approx .95 per pound, in 50 pound sacks.

[Aussie44]

I use Glass bead (180-320 grit) and set pressure at 90psi Max.

[motorhead]

glass doesan't really bite into steel though. i use on a regular basis for cleaning engine parts. it removes the old finish from steel but doesn't really rough up the surface. perfect for a cylinder head, not as good for a trunnion.