Who Else Wants To Know About CERAKOTE VS DURACOAT?

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Have you ever thought of changing your gun’s look? In case, you have, then you may be thinking about what to next. Worry no more, as we have the perfect solution for you. Ever heard of Cerakote and Duracoat? If yes, then here is a post on which one to decide on. If not, then also this post will be of great help. 

Gone are the days of steel or black guns. The gun industry is evolving at a faster rate and yes you can paint your gun with the color of your choice. Yes, you may now be thinking of how to choose the right coating by considering a debate between Cerakote vs Duracoat. Here is how you solve it.

What Is This Cerakote Vs Duracoat All About?

For starters, both Cerakote and Duracoat are curing products. Both can change your gun’s presentation instantly and lend it a finished look. In simple words, these coatings can transform your gun from a boring black or steel body to a stylish manifestation. 

Yes, we know there is a lot of noise about these two brands because they are the leading names in this line of work. You can never go wrong with them and rest assured, you will be left with stunning results, once you actually customize your gun.


Why Use A Firearm Coat?

Before we start about the two name brands, we must first understand, why you would need to coat a firearm. In fact, you can use these for axes, knives, and other tools that may need curing. 

Below are a few facts that can reflect that would explain the need to finish a gun:

  • The key purpose is to keep your gun protected from rusting and this solves the issue in a sophisticated way 
  • You use your imagination to make your gun seem aesthetically pleasing
  • Yes, your firearm becomes chic
  • This adds personality to it
  • Makes it more durable
  • Hands down, it can personalize your gun and add a charm to it
  • It takes off the boring look of black and steel

What Is Cerakote?

This has a ceramic base coating that can protect your firearm in the best possible ways. You can use this on wood as well apart from metal and on polymer. It comes with a lot of color options that help you customize your weapon. It is manufactured by NIC Industries. It is a resilient solution for curing that adds to its popularity.  

Pros

  • To be honest, Cerakote is thin and can last long because of this property
  • This means it is smooth to apply
  • It can also be used for lubrication purposes
  • Cerakote finishes attract less dirt and dust
  • So, it protects your gun against environmental elements and keeps it safe from corrosion
  • You get 102 colors to take a pick from
  • You need to cure it at 250 degrees F in an oven
  • There are courses that teach how to use this finish

Cons

  • It requires you to dismantle your gun before application
  • You may need professional help while using this

What Is Duracoat?

This is a chemical base finish that requires two different types of coatings. One is the topcoat and then follows the clear coat. They also have a plethora of colors to choose from and you can even get creative by using stencils to adorn your weapon. 

Pros

  • It is way more reasonable than other options and there are doubts about it
  • You get 257 colors to select from
  • In fact, the Camopak kit comes with stencils and paint to make it worth your time
  • It is very easy to apply and you do not need any special training for this
  • You can get glossy or matte finish in DuraCoat
  • It needs air drying 

Cons

  • Needs 3 to 6 weeks to set in
  • Application is bit of a challenge

The Difference: Cerakote vs Duracoat 

It is quite evident from our discussion so far that the two have some differences. We have jotted down as much distinction as we could in this respect. Have a look at them:

  • DuraCoat needs 3 to 6 weeks of time to develop, whereas, Cerakote can be cured using an oven and once cooled to room temperature, it is good to go
  • Cerakote curing needs a paint gun, while DuraCoat can be applied like a spray paint
  • For DuraCoat, you get 257 colors to make a choice from and Cerakote, on the other hand, offers 102 colors
  • Cerakote brings a metallic shine to your gun and DuraCoat can blend in with any color
  • DuraCoat is affordable for the sensible, while Cerakote is on the expensive side
  • Again, with Cerakote there is a possibility of ruining your gun if things go wrong
  • Yes, you can go creative with Cerakote, but DuraCoat has its limitations

Advantage DuraCoat

It is easy to use and is inexpensive. You don’t have to be extra careful while curing your gun with this finish. You can start using your gun within 24 hours of use, but it takes time to cure and 3 to 6 weeks is a long time. 

One problem that you may come across by using DuraCoat is that of scratching. That is correct, your gun tends to get scratches easily with this finish. Otherwise, it is easy to clean and offers you with high impact chemical resistance. 

More or less, you can even mix the colors and create exquisite concoctions that may amaze you. This implies that you can personalize your arm in such a way that it would look exclusive. 

Advantage Cerakote

Cerakote takes only 5 days at the maximum to cure. Plus, it makes your weapon more durable. It protects your gun from rust and other elements that may corrode it in the long run. 

You need to pull your gun apart and sandblast it. Additionally, if the paint into certain specific crevices, your gun may ruin forever. There is always this fear of losing your gun to Cerakote. Nonetheless, if done with care, you can avoid all that. In fact, there are training videos that can help you in this respect. 

Moreover, Cerakote will last you for years to come owing to its impact resistant property. It can take havoc and you may not worry about your weapon twice, once you cure it with Cerakote. This is a long term solution and there are no qualms about it.


The Truth

It is true that Cerakote is a specialized coating agent like a professional and DuraCoat is more of a home-based resolve. It takes some time to dry, which means you cannot use it for shooting until it dries out! 

If you are still confused about Cerakote vs Duracoat, then do consider asking a gunsmith for this. Alternatively, you may also ask a friend for assistance that knows about guns. This is the right way to do it and you will not repent it, in case you like to cure your firearms. In this regard, we urge you to weigh the pros and cons to make an informed decision. Think about it.

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