I know this subject has been beaten like a dead horse.Covered time and time again.But some of us that are hobbiest need the input.Its hard to find anything on the net or in books that covers all the angles.I know most of the pros here have learned from years of doing,but i am a hobbiest .I might only blue three or four guns a year.I only want to work on my guns,but i want them to be the best that i can do.Its not that i am cheap and don't want to pay to have it done.I really love the the work.I get real pleasure from spending time in my shop working on the rifles and shotguns that chose to rework.Its a labor of love.The pay off is when i finish ,and the gun looks as good or better then the day it left the factory.I know there is no substitution for time and practice .I just want to try to not make as many mistakes as i can. Anyway i don't mean to rant.
Lets talk rust bluing.below are a list of questions and comments that i put together.
1.polishing,what grit is best,and when you get to that grit should it be shined to a mirror.(what i mean is what you get when you keep polishing with that paper until its wore out.a shinny look.)
2.solution.What is the best to use.This is a really hard subject.many like to make there own ,and some like what they can buy.Also on this subject.should you cut the solution for better results.
3.Should you use a hot box.If so what temp and humidity is best.Also what amount of time is best in the box.(i have had some problems in the box with it sweating,and leaving small drop marks)
4.application.what is the best way to apply the rust solution.as well as the amount.I have had problems with this in the past with putting to much on and having it bite to deep into my surface.(pitting it to much)
5. boiling time.I have read anywhere from 10 to 30 minutes.Some have said no less than 30 minutes.One manufactures said ten minutes will work.
6.Carding.I use a carding wheel.Some say to only us steel wool,or scotchbrite.what is the best.
7.Number of coats.What are you looking for.how do you know you have done applied the rite number.
8.oiling.after the last boiling and carding.should the part be aloud to rest.(one smith lets his parts rest for 24 hours)How long before oil is applied.What is the best oil to uses.I have read some uses grease.Can it be used.

This is a list of things that came to mind.I know a lot of this is open to interpretation.What i would like is to find a system that works and gives the best results time and time again.