Hydro or duracoat???

[Predator hunter]

Been throwing around the idea of getting a couple of my AR/AKs done in a camo job but not for sure which route to take. Any experience or advice?

 

[Whitsettd8]

I'm looking for someone to finish my 700P with Duracoat or Cerakote I'll let you know if I find anyone reasonable. Been searching around on here for a day or so and PM'ing people no luck so far.

 

[churchmouse]

Duracoat

 

[Whitsettd8]

Armor-Hyde Technologies - Home

These guys are close to me I think I may head over and check out their shop.

 

[Chance]

Just an FYI....Hydrocoat is a layer of "ink" suspended in water that is transferred to your gun. Is it not as durable as you may desire unless topcoated with something like Duracoat has to protect it.

 

[Predator hunter]

Isn't one step of the hydro process to clear coat??? Or am I just thinking I read that somewhere... Lol

 

[Combsie]

Bought my son a GSG 1911-22 for x-mas and had it dipped in the Reaper Z. Before the dip, it ran absolutely flawless. Not so much afterwards. I believe it's the added thickness on the bottom of the slide rubbing a bit. The look is great, I just hope it's back to normal operation after more range time. Appears pretty durable.

 

[indygunguy]

Churchmouse - Why don't you like Duracoat? Just curious, I've never used it.

 

[Cowboy71]

People constantly badmouth Duracoat but after doing around eight guns and a dozen or so knives I've had great luck with it.

 

[downlinx]

Duracote hands down is alot stronger than hydro. If it is a shelf queen then hydro would work fine.

 

[phylodog]

If you want durable go Cerakote. If you want a really nice pattern on a gun that won't see hard use Hyrdo is fine.

 

[rp8]

Also agree that Cerakote is the way to go. Had a Glock cerakoted about 8 years ago and has held its finish nicely.

 

[Overwatch]

Cerakote and KG Guncoat are beleived by many to be the most durable baked on finishes. Alumn-Hyde works great if you can't bake the parts.

Hydro-dipping is the most attractive way to add a camouflage finish, but it is not as durable. Many times, it is covered with a clear coat to protect it.

As has been hinted at in this thread -- it really matter what you are trying to achieve. Are you trying to make a good looking conversation piece or are you trying to make your rifle less detectable?

 

[vitamink]

My Atacs AK

The thread explains the process.
https://www.indianagunowners.com/forums/long-guns/218487-battlecoat-t-ed-ak.html


If it's done correctly and not by one of those DIY kits, the gun is duracoated the correct color first, then dipped, then duracoated clear.