You actually have several options. I don't know if you're a do it yourselfer or not but there are even some you could do yourself. Spray lacquers which are then baked are fair. They chip and while used mainly for aluminum parts don't look too bad when applied to the entire piece. There are shops capable of 'bluing' the stainless. You can find their adds in 'GunList' but expect to pay a premium as it requires special chemicals and they are quickly depleted by bluing the stainless(higher heat is the culprit). There are also several types of powder coating material used on firearms. The camo finishes available on many new weapons are actually a type of powder coating process. The process is available on a custom basis but is very pricey. Many gunshops can simply powder coat you weapon in the color and shine level of your selection. There are several hundred different 'black' colors and many differnt levels of shine. The process requires the article witrhstand 400Degrees F for a short period. This will not harm Chromoly steel, although I remove small springs to aviod damaging them, I have been told by informed sources it won't harm them anyway.. I have had bad experiences with 'bluing' stainless and lacquer just doesn't last well, I use a local powder coater, he's a relative. He does excellant work but I'm sure there are local shops that will perform the same way for you...Powder is nearly indestructable, looks great, is easy to apply, and is quite reasonable... It's my choice. Take a look at the 'hammer tone color', your local powder painter shloud have a collor book!!
