Duracoat expense,demand feedback

[a-chris-47]

I was wondering if setting up a Duracoat area in my Gunsmithing shop is a good idea. Is there alot of demand ? Is it too easy to "do it yourself "? Drop me an opinion or give me some feedback. Just trying to expand a little.

Thanks,
Chris

[jingerale]

I was wondering if setting up a Duracoat area in my Gunsmithing shop is a good idea. Is there alot of demand ? Is it too easy to "do it yourself "? Drop me an opinion or give me some feedback. Just trying to expand a little.

Thanks,
Chris

I've used both Cerakote and Duracoat. IMO, the hardest part is surface prep. Not everyone has access to a blasting cabinet. If the price is right, I'd be happy to let someone else do it. Saves me the hassle of blasting, cleaning, and spraying( I hate the smell).

[kcstott]

I think I would only offer Cerokote. as for all the work put into prep. Cerokote is the best finish. And it would make it easier to justify the work involved with setting up an area.
But you may do a few jobs and figure out it's a lot of work. It's one of the reasons most shops I see that are professional applicators charge as much as a good reblue or more.

[Dakine_surf]

I did what you are contemplating but in a much smaller area.

Biggest issues are prep... that and getting your FFL so that you can actually ship the firearms that you get, unless you are just doing it locally. Even then it is best to hookup with a local shop to get your name out there.

Duracoat and cerakote are very easy to do... to do well is another matter. Prep, cure time, ambient temp and humidity all factor into how well your firearm takes to the process.

Check out my site in my sig.

[mrminnesota66]

Durabake works well for quick turnaround time and immediate use of the part(s). The downside is there are far fewer color options.

[Gunsmith Dan]

I am a gunsmith and offered refinishing services as a extra service to my customers.

I now am a certified Cerakote applicator and I get more business for Cerakote than I do for gunsmithing.

Cerakote does require alot of careful prep but when done properly you will not get complaints for repainting as you will with Duracoat. Duracoat even if the prep is the same as Cerakote chips and wears out MUCH faster than Cerakote will (about 8 times faster), is not effective when painted on internal wearing parts and requires alot of masking.