Cerkote removal?

Omega Leather Works · Feb 18, 2013

Is it possible to remove Cerkote? If so, how?

9blades · Feb 18, 2013

My best guess would be to follow similar steps as in his thread.
http://www.bladeforums.com/forums/showthread.php/1039750-How-to-removing-anodizing-from-aluminum-handles

DJG097 · Feb 18, 2013

Paint stripper. Make sure it's in a warm place and well ventilated.

Omega Leather Works · Feb 18, 2013

Hmm... thanks guys. After doing a little research it's not looking good.

Well into the ether goes this thread...

45Shooter · Feb 18, 2013

It has to be blasted off.

Omega Leather Works · Feb 19, 2013

45Shooter said:
It has to be blasted off.

Yeah that's my conclusion. Bummer. My understanding is that m4 takes a cool look from grinding. I could blast the coating at work, but I'm sure it would leave the knife with a blasted finish. I'd rather just leave it be.

SOLEIL · Feb 19, 2013

A previous post http://www.bladeforums.com/forums/showthread.php/1017003-Cerakote-removal suggested using sandpaper. The cerakote on my BM810 scratched very easily. I was able to buff much of it out using a buffing wheel and automotive rubbing compound. Don't like the scratches but will live with them. It would be nice to get an 810 without the cerakote finish.

jforbush · Mar 10, 2013

Cerakote is impervious to just about any chemical you can put on it. Blasting is the best method and the safest.

richard j · Mar 11, 2013

i have used a scotchbrite wheel to remove just about any coating out there. it leaves a satin finish on the blade though.

Omega Leather Works · Mar 11, 2013

richard j said:
i have used a scotchbrite wheel to remove just about any coating out there. it leaves a satin finish on the blade though.

Yeah I wanted to do it with chemicals (obviously that isn't going to happen) because I had read that cpm m4 has a really unique look to it from final grinding at the factory.

There is a long standing thread on the BKC forums asking them to forgo the coating. I'm not sure that they will ever do it, but it would be nice. Many people seem to want it.