How to re-anodize an Al grip frame

[Capn27]

I sure wish a good answer to this question was a sticky, along with the "How to" bluing threads. I have two XR-3 RED grip frames which need to be lightly sanded on the very bottom and refinished.

 

[Enigma]

I would recommend doing a web search on the subject. I've seen several threads on other forums over the years on how to do anodizing at home, and I'll bet that some of them can still be accessed.

 

[WOB]

The only type of anodizing that will hold up is Type III or hard anodizing. The process is not suitable for the home anodizer because it takes special equipment that would be far too expensive for the hobbyist to acquire. There are several companies that will do gun parts. Here are two: http://techplate.com/firearms.htm http://www.usanodizing.com/services.htm

WOB

 

[Jimbo357mag]

They say Cerama-cote works good on the aluminum gripframe.
http://www.midwayusa.com/product/455475/wheeler-engineering-cerama-coat-4-oz-aerosol-black

Clements used it on this gun. Not sure of the color.
http://www.rugerforum.com/phpBB3/viewtopic.php?f=6&t=154109

 

[Capn27]

The only type of anodizing that will hold up is Type III or hard anodizing. The process is not suitable for the home anodizer because it takes special equipment that would be far too expensive for the hobbyist to acquire. There are several companies that will do gun parts. Here are two: http://techplate.com/firearms.htm http://www.usanodizing.com/services.htm

WOB

I was afraid that would be the answer. Sigh. One of my grip frames is perfect except a previous owner used a vibrating engraver to scratch his first name on the butt. It looks like a first grade kid did it.

It would be easy to sand off, but then what? I would like it

 

[Capn27]

Oops - I'm having a learning curve problem using this phone for posting. I was trying to say I'd like it restored to factory appearance. I really don't want to trust it to the mail, UPS or Fedex.

I guess I'll try a local metal finishing company. There are lots of them here due to Boeing's proximity.