PCB Etch vs Blue/Bleach

[MyronPbody]

Hello,

This is my first post on the forums. I have a FFG BK16 that I have stripped and I am thinking of doing a perma-patina. I love the looks of the etching that Clich and others have done and I have some questions.

Is there much of a difference between using PCB Etch vs. doing a Blue/Bleach job like Clich has outlined? Is one stronger? Does anyone have any pros and/or cons for using either method?

Any input would be appreciated.

Thanks.

 

[Uncle Malice]

The blue/bleach etch will work much quicker and is a little more unpredictable. The PCB etch is generally used for etching the logo's and whatnot that have been laser etched into the coating... that will give it some depth so once you strip the finish, the logo is still there.

The blue/bleach etch really eats away at the metal quickly. It can leave some really cool patterns behind, but it's hard to do detailed work with it unless you're a wizard like clich.

 

[crimsonfalcon07]

I think Clich's actual designs are done with PCB acid, like that 7 he did the flag and such on.

 

[JustAFleshWound]

The PCB will give you a flat, even etch; kind of like a really deep patina. And the bluu/bleach etch will give you a rough looking finish. Personally, I prefer the look of the blue/bleach on Beckers.

 

[MyronPbody]

Thank you very much. I agree, I like the "rough" look of the blue/bleach.