Polishing shell casings

[reddwil]

For those who make pens using shell casings, after you polish the brass, what do you seal it with? The polished brass seams to discolor faster than the ones that have been untouched.

 

[pssherman]

I use a clear powder coating, but the brass darkens during the heating. Spray lacquers meant for wood don't hold up very well, they chip easily. I have not tried the lacquers used in auto refinishing, so I don't know how well they will work. I am looking at trying a metal lacquer that supposedly bonds to copper, brass, and bronze.

 

[fernhills]

I use Brasso,that seems to last fairly long,anyone who you give it to or sell to you can say a quick buffing with a little water and baking soda will make it like new again.
Army has been polishing brass for years now.. Carl

 

[Sylvanite]

I use clear powder coat. As mentioned already, the heat from the powder coating process does cause color change in the bullet (if a bullet is used). It can change the color of the brass. The amount seems to depend on the alloy and annealing, which varies with manufacturer.

Others also use brass laquer (not to be confused with laquer for wood as already mentioned). It does not discolor the metal and holds up reasonably well (although not as well as powder coat).

Still others prefer to leave the brass uncoated. The owner can either polish it periodically or let it tarnish naturally.

Regards,
Eric

 

[THarvey]

I like the natural tarnish on the cartridge. I sand the casing with 2000 grit sand paper on the lathe. This cleans the cartridge and removes any small burrs.

I have noticed that cartridges I sanded like this darken slower than those I cleaned with brasso.

 

[reddwil]

Some of the people I have sold them to, have stated they prefer the natural tarnish look of the brass. I've got where I ask them before I make the pens. I tell them if they are going to use it to leave it alone, if they are going to display it, polish. Thanks for the help.