I will either use Blue Wonder or Oxpho Blue when I cold blue a barreled action or small parts. Both seem to be durable and have given me good results most of the time. I'm meticulous on the metal prep and application of both products, so I have come to the conclusion the metallurgy of some of the rifles I've used the products on caused me problems on getting a nice even finish on the metal. I do prefer the Blue Wonder over the Oxpho Blue as far as giving a better looking finish, but in the weeks following its application you'd better keep it well oiled to prevent rust. This problem will eventually stop. I too live along the Gulf coast and our humidity may contribute to the problem. I do not have this problem with Oxpho Blue. I've tried the Tetra blue, G96 gun blue creme, and Birchwood Casey Permablue and its my opinion Blue Wonder and Oxpho Blue is very superior to them for attaining a cold blue finish I was happy with.
cwlongshot, Its been a very very long time since I used the 44/40 cold blue product. Used it back in the late 60s on a pistol. So, for what its worth, I think Blue Wonder or Oxpho is better than 44/40, which back then was maybe the best cold blue product available. By the way, Brownells now owns the original 44/40 cold blue formula and has it availiable. Check the Brownell website.
