Chuck - I made an error in one of my earlier messages. The circuit board etchant IS still available from Radio Shack; you just have to look for it. For instance, only one store in my city carries the stuff. The other store managers just look at you with a blank stare when you ask for it. (there are 12 stores where I live, and only one had the material). I found it by googling "etchant," then clicking on the square, under "Radio Shack," for addresses where the material is in stock. I don't know if they will re-stock it any time soon, but I bought their whole supply (two bottles).
Paul - The 5 second etch came from Dr. Gaddy. He wasn't too clear on how long to etch in his articles, so I wrote him. The time is apparently not extremely critical, unless you leave the barrels in long enough to start fading the pattern. I'm anxious to see those Parker barrels. By the way, I believe Parker barrels came from the factory with a black-and-white finish. Many of them have rusted over the years to a brown-and-white.
Chuck - your latest test runs are really looking good. You may want to try a lacquer or varnish on them. Lasts longer than plain gun oil, and in my opinion, comes out contrastier. I believe Dr. Gaddy was using Behlem's spray lacquer and, as I mentioned, I have been using Tru-Oil stock finish, thinned with paint thinner.
Bill
