What is "black T finish"?

[Questor]

Is this a good option for a pistol when you want maximum durability in your handgun finish? What is it?  Thank you.

[gunnut69]

From what I've seen it most resembles a type of powder coat.  Applied fairly thinly and it is quite durable as are powder coatings in general..  Some of the fiinishes boast a metallic lubricant as part of their makeup..  I've used regular powdercoat as a firearms finish.  It is very durable but not the most durable.  A finish such as Armoloy would probably take that prize.  This is a metallic alloy applied as a plasma and is extremely hrad and nearly without thickness.  I've not seen any color but a satin stainless that wears to a brighter stainless as it is polished.  It is nearly wear proof and for it's durability not overly expensive.  It is propritary though, so the weapon will have to be shipped to the plant where it is applied.  If you like a dark finish I have worked with black chrome and it seems to wear well although it is not as hard or durable as armoloy.

[Prince of Wales]

gunnut I don`t mean to steal the thread but I would like to know more about black chrome. Thanks. POW

[gunnut69]

I'm a long way from expert but black chrome is a nickle-chrome alloy with another metalic that creates a gloss black finish.  It is applied as is the chrome on bumpers, eletroplated..  Well done it creates a very durable finish that looks almost like a highly polished hot tank blue job.  As in all electroplating there are the problems with uneven plating, especially in certain areas due to the electrical current flow used to transport and apply the chrome.  There's a place in Florida I believe can't remember the name any more but they do an excellant job...  They regularly advertise in GunList or at least they used to..  This process has even been used commercially.  I had a Franchi Falconet(over/under) with an adonized(sp.) aluminum receiver and the barrels were black chromed.  I loved the gun and it always looked great and showed little wear though I hunted birds with it nearly every weekend(and some weekdays!!).  Unfortunately it was stolen..  I've worked with other pieces that were black chromed and they seemed just fine.  The armoly is a much harder material, and is without doubt more durable..especially in a holster, but I don't believe it is offered in any colors..