CERAKOTE – why and for whom?

CERAKOTE – what for and for whom?

Cerakote on firearms – what is it and why are more and more shooters choosing it?
If you’re into guns, you’ve definitely come across the term Cerakote. For some it’s just a “cool color”, for others – a real upgrade. So what’s the truth?

At CSJ, Cerakote is everyday business, so let’s explain it clearly and without marketing fluff.

What exactly is Cerakote?

Cerakote is a thin ceramic-polymer coating widely used to protect metal, plastic, and wooden surfaces.

Thanks to its properties – high resistance to abrasion, corrosion, and heat – it has quickly become one of the most popular finishes in the firearms industry.

It’s not paint in the classic sense. When properly applied, it forms a very durable, chemically and mechanically resistant protective layer, ideal for both sporting and collector firearms.

Important:
Cerakote does not negatively affect part tolerances when applied correctly.

Why does Cerakote make sense on a firearm?

Because it combines function with aesthetics:

  • Protection against corrosion – sweat, humidity, weather
  • High resistance to wear and temperature
  • Reduced light reflection (important in sport and tactical use)
  • High impact resistance
  • Huge customization options – from classic to full custom

For many sport shooters, it’s a way to make their gun:

  • more resistant to intensive use
  • look exactly the way they want – not just “another black one”

When is Cerakote used?

Not only for new builds, but also when a firearm needs refreshing or a personal touch.

Most common reasons shooters choose Cerakote:

Renovation

  • restoring protection and aesthetics to worn or damaged parts
  • protecting firearms after heavy use
  • renewing surfaces after corrosion or mechanical damage

Personalization

  • giving the gun a unique look
  • matching colors to the shooter’s style or intended use
  • distinguishing competition or duty equipment

Color combinations and patterns

  • multi-color projects
  • camouflage
  • functional markings (e.g. controls, selectors, magazines)

Functional protection

  • everyday carry guns
  • firearms used in harsh conditions
  • intensive training and competition use

That’s why Cerakote is not just “a nice color”, but a real upgrade in durability and functionality.

Cerakote vs bluing / classic finishes

Bluing looks good… until it doesn’t.

Cerakote wins when the gun:

  • is used frequently
  • is carried
  • comes into contact with sweat, moisture, holsters

Of course, Cerakote is not for every project.
For strictly collectible firearms, originality may be preferable. But for modern sporting platforms? Cerakote simply gets the job done.

Cerakote step by step – how it’s done in the CSJ gunsmith shop

Cerakote is not just “painting a gun a different color”. It’s a process where every stage matters – from full disassembly to final inspection. Here’s how we do it (see the video at the top of the blog):

Complete disassembly
We start by fully stripping the firearm.
Without proper preparation, even the best Cerakote won’t last.
No shortcuts – Cerakote is applied only to surfaces intended for coating.
This ensures:

  • even coverage
  • no flooding of mechanisms
  • all tolerances remain intact

Surface preparation – the key to durability
This is the stage that makes the difference and is often skipped in amateur jobs.
Each part is:

  • thoroughly cleaned
  • degreased
  • inspected for old coatings and damage

Sandblasting – the foundation
Not just “any blasting” – the media and parameters are carefully selected, especially for working parts.
Blasting creates the micro-texture that allows Cerakote to:

  • adhere perfectly
  • remain durable
  • resist peeling over time

Outgassing (heat treatment)
After blasting, parts are heated.
Only then are they cleaned again and prepared for coating.
This step:

  • removes moisture and contaminants
  • draws oils out of metal pores
  • prevents future adhesion issues

Cerakote application
This is where color appears – but precision still matters more than looks.
Too thick = problems.
Too thin = poor durability.
The coating is applied:

  • evenly
  • at the correct thickness
  • with full respect for part function

Curing at controlled temperature
After application, parts are cured in an oven at temperatures specific to the Cerakote type.
Without this, Cerakote won’t perform properly.
This is when the coating:

  • reaches its full strength
  • stabilizes chemically
  • gains its final properties

Quality control and reassembly
Finally, we:

  • inspect every part
  • check all fits
  • reassemble the firearm
  • ensure everything functions perfectly

Only then is the firearm ready for pickup.

Why does all this matter?

Because Cerakote is supposed to:

  • protect
  • function
  • look good for years

Not just “look nice for the first range session”.

Preparation determines durability – not just the color or even the material.

Who is Cerakote for?

  • Sport shooters
  • Duty / defensive firearm owners
  • Anyone who wants to personalize their gun
  • Those who want real protection, not just a cosmetic effect

Thinking about Cerakote for your firearm?
At CSJ we handle both classic projects and full custom builds.

If you already have a concept – or are just exploring options – we’ll help you choose what makes technical sense.

On the StrefaCelu store website you’ll find our gunsmithing price list. Soon we’ll also launch a web application that will allow you to generate service orders and track their progress online.

Follow our social media and the News section on our JAMMAS.pl website for updates.