Bright finish on barrel

[verzilli]

I have an older muzzle loader (Zouave musket style, Zoli, 1980's?) with nearly all the blueing off.  I decided to buff it.  came out with a beautiful, bright mirror-like shine.  Is there a way to keep it that way, protect it?  Coat it with a "clear" something?  Or just wax it up real good?  I would prefer not to reblue.  Thanks

[John Traveler]

To preserve a bright, polished finish, try what the reproduction arms makers do for polished brass or steel:  lacquer it.

Spray on polyurethane varnish is more durable though.  I like "Krylon" brand spray cans.  You clean and degrease the surface carefully, spray it on and let it dry overnight.  I like lacquer thinner or acetone for the degreasing.  Just be sure you work outdoors and away from open flame or ignition sources.

[verzilli]

Thanks.  I had a suspicion that's all that was necessary.  Great!