Types of Rust Blue
 

What is the main difference in Rust Blues as there is slow rust bluing and Belgian "hot water" rust bluing? I have been told that slow rust bluing is darker and takes more time to do? How do they compare to each other in color and durability?

In my experance, and I do both types in my shop, hot rust blue is more a "blue black" color and Belgian blue is a softer egg shell blue finish...I have never noticed a difference in durability....hope this helps

That is exactly the input I was looking for since each is touted as being beautiful and durable than hot salt bluing. I am going to try to use Belgian bluing on some Luger grip screws and a S&W 1905 that I am restoring.

Virginian,

FYI, I don't think Luger grip screws were ever rust blued. Earlier lugers (pre WWI to early 1936 S/42s I think) have fire blued grip screws. Later lugers have salt blued screws. Experts please correct me if this is incorrect. KFS