Ruger bluing service

[Switchblade]

When you send in an old model to Ruger for re-bluing do they anodize the aluminum grip frame? I believe it's the way it was done when originally manufactured. From what I understand aluminum can be blued and can also be powder coated. Has anyone had any one had any of these done or know if Ruger would do just the grip frame?

 

[s4s4u]

Aluminum cannot be "blued", per se. It can be blackened, but not blued.

Anodizing or cerakote, or similar, are the common processes for aluminum. Not sure what Ruger does, or if they will even perform the service anymore.

 

[Cholo]

When you send in an old model to Ruger for re-bluing do they anodize the aluminum grip frame?

No, it's coated like on the newer models.

 

[BULL'S-EYE]

Ruger has been powder coating it's aluminum grip frames for probably 15 years now.

 

[Joey]

I just got a ss back I sent to be blued a coupla months ago. I requested the gf be refinished, don't know if that is necessary. They did a great job on bluing as well as powder coating. I was advised by a couple folks on here not to send grips, just something else for them to keep up with.

 

[Switchblade]

I was thinking powder coating would be a better way to go, it is a lot more resilient than anodizing. Great information thanks to all that replied.

 

[GYJ44]

They probably replace the grip frame rather than refinish it. Ruger hasn't anodized a grip frame in years.

 

[Switchblade]

So if they replace it chances are it will be with a powder coated one, or possibly powder coat the one that was sent in. Good information Thank you!