In the world of firearms, durability, aesthetics, and protection are key elements every gun owner looks for. Whether you’re an enthusiast or a professional, finding the right finish for your firearm is essential. Enter Cerakote®—a revolutionary ceramic-based coating that has become the industry standard for protecting firearms. But what makes Cerakote the best gun coating on the market? Let’s dive into its art and science.
What Is Cerakote?
Cerakote is a specialized polymer-ceramic coating, designed to enhance several material properties of a firearm, including:
- Corrosion resistance
- Abrasion resistance
- Wear resistance
- Impact strength
- Chemical resistance
Originally developed for military and industrial applications, Cerakote has found a home in the firearms industry due to its robust protective qualities and versatility in customization. Simply put, it’s a ceramic based paint designed to go on very thin.
Unparalleled Durability
Firearms go through extreme conditions—whether from weather, usage, or environmental factors—and coatings must be able to stand the test of time. Cerakote offers exceptional protection against the elements. It has been tested in salt spray chambers and has been proven to prevent rust far better than traditional gun finishes like bluing or parkerizing. Even under harsh weather conditions, Cerakote’s resilience keeps firearms in peak condition. You can watch the testing below, proving how resilient Cerakote actually is.
The ceramic component in Cerakote also adds abrasion resistance, meaning your firearm won’t get scratched or worn as easily. Something we always try to convey to our customers though, is that it’s not a miracle coating. If you take care of it, it will take care of you. But if you abuse it, it will eventually wear. Check out more of how Cerakote compares to the alternatives here.
Heat and Chemical Resistance
For gun enthusiasts who push their firearms to the limit—especially in rapid-fire scenarios or in extreme environments—heat is a major concern. Cerakote H-Series, the most common Cerakote product used for firearms, offers heat resistance up to 500°F (260°C). For higher temperature options, C-Series, a high-temperature air-cure option, withstands up to 1800°F (982°C), making it ideal for suppressors or barrels exposed to extreme firing rates.
Additionally, Cerakote is resistant to a wide array of chemicals, from gun cleaning solvents to gasoline. This makes maintaining your firearm easier without the worry of the finish degrading over time from exposure to harsh substances.
Customization and Aesthetics
One of the major draws of Cerakote is its customization potential. Available in a wide variety of colors, Cerakote gives gun owners the ability to make their firearms truly unique. From camo finishes to battle-worn effects and American flag designs, the possibilities are endless. Check out some of our designs here.
Customization doesn’t just stop at the aesthetics, though. Cerakote is applied extremely thin, which doesn’t affect the mechanical operation or precision of your firearm, maintaining all tolerances as if it were factory new. Despite being thin, the protective properties of Cerakote are superior to many thicker coatings, which could hinder the function of moving parts.
Increased Performance
Not only does Cerakote protect and beautify firearms, but it can also enhance their performance. The ceramic properties in the coating reduces friction between moving parts, leading to smoother operation and less wear over time. In environments where reliability and precision are critical, such as hunting or competitive shooting, this reduction in friction can make a difference.
Conclusion
Cerakote isn’t just a coating—it’s an investment in the longevity, performance, and aesthetics of your firearm. At Schiwerks, we take pride in applying factory-certified Cerakote finishes to firearms across the country, ensuring that each piece receives the highest quality treatment. Whether you’re looking for a custom design or simply want the best protection available, Cerakote stands head and shoulders above other finishes.
Protect your investment with Cerakote—the best gun coating on the market.
Interested in learning more about Cerakote or starting a custom project? Contact us at Schiwerks, and we’ll help bring your vision to life.
~Sam