Can You Cerakote Plastic Grips? A Comprehensive Guide
Cerakote is a popular choice for enhancing the durability and aesthetics of firearms and other components. Its reputation for toughness and customization options has led many to wonder: can you Cerakote plastic grips? The short answer is yes, but with some important considerations. This guide will delve into the process, the benefits, the challenges, and what you need to know before applying Cerakote to your plastic grips.
Understanding Cerakote and its Application on Plastics
Cerakote is a ceramic-based coating known for its exceptional hardness, scratch resistance, and chemical resistance. While it's often associated with metal surfaces, it can adhere to various substrates, including plastics. However, the success of the application depends heavily on proper surface preparation and the type of plastic used.
The Challenges of Cerakoting Plastic Grips
Unlike metal, plastic is a less rigid and more porous material. This presents several challenges:
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Surface Preparation: Plastic grips often have a textured surface, requiring meticulous cleaning and preparation to ensure proper adhesion. Failure to properly prepare the surface can result in peeling or chipping of the Cerakote. This includes removing any oils, contaminants, or previous coatings. A thorough cleaning with a degreaser and possibly light sanding with very fine grit sandpaper is crucial.
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Plastic Compatibility: Not all plastics are compatible with Cerakote. Some plastics may react negatively to the solvents used in the Cerakote application process, leading to warping, melting, or discoloration. It's crucial to identify the type of plastic your grips are made from before proceeding. Common plastics like ABS, Nylon, and Polycarbonate generally work well, but always test a small, inconspicuous area first.
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Flexibility: Plastic grips can flex under pressure. If the Cerakote isn't properly applied or the plastic is too flexible, the coating may crack or peel over time due to repeated use.
Successfully Cerakoting Plastic Grips: A Step-by-Step Process
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Identify the Plastic Type: Determine the type of plastic your grips are made from. This information is often found on the manufacturer's website or markings on the grips themselves.
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Thorough Cleaning: Clean the grips thoroughly using a degreaser to remove any oils, dirt, or contaminants. Allow them to dry completely.
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Surface Preparation (Optional): For smoother plastics, light sanding with very fine grit sandpaper (e.g., 600-grit or higher) can improve adhesion. For textured grips, this step may not be necessary, but ensure all debris is removed.
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Primer Application (Often Necessary): A suitable plastic primer is usually essential for optimal adhesion. Choose a primer specifically designed for plastics and compatible with Cerakote. Apply thin, even coats, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next.
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Cerakote Application: Apply thin, even coats of Cerakote using the recommended method (airbrushing is typically preferred). Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next. Multiple thin coats are better than one thick coat.
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Curing: Follow the manufacturer's instructions for curing the Cerakote. This typically involves baking the grips in an oven at a specific temperature for a set period. Incorrect curing can compromise the durability of the coating.
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Post-Cure Cleaning (If Necessary): Once cured, gently clean any excess Cerakote or debris.
Benefits of Cerakoting Plastic Grips
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Enhanced Durability: Cerakote provides a protective layer that increases the resistance to scratches, abrasion, and wear.
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Improved Grip: Depending on the Cerakote color and texture, you might improve your grip and handling.
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Customization: Cerakote offers a wide range of colors and finishes, allowing for extensive customization to match your personal preferences or firearm.
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Chemical Resistance: Protects the grips against solvents, oils, and other chemicals.
Conclusion: Weighing the Pros and Cons
Cerakoting plastic grips is achievable, but requires careful planning and execution. The benefits of enhanced durability, improved aesthetics, and customization are significant, but the potential challenges related to plastic compatibility and surface preparation must be addressed meticulously. Remember to always test a small, inconspicuous area first before proceeding with the entire grip. If unsure about any aspect of the process, seek professional help.
