[Chuckc]

I have had several private messages asking for the formula, so I will not wait for the other formula results. Those who wish, can try this out and see the results for themselves.

Bern (Swiss)
Browning Solution

.1183 liters Distilled water

1.8 grams Copper Sulphate

12.5 grams Solution ferric chloride (29%)

7.2 grams Nitric Acid D.1.42

2.5 grams Alcohol (IPA)

I have also been asked about availability of the ingredients. Three are fairly common. The distilled water you can find at your local grocery store. I would recommend this as tap water has chlorine and I am not sure what effect that would have on the results. I also use distilled water for the boiling.

Copper sulphate should be available at your local pool supply store. And the Alcohol is nothing more than common rubbing alcohol. This was supplied for the "Spirit of Nitre" called for in the book. I believe the author said this could even be omitted without a significant difference in results. It is easy to get, so why not. We buy it by the 55 gallon drum. Do not substitute single malt scotch. This is a different kind of alcohol for an entirely different application.

The two remaining ingredients may be more difficult to find. Since I have a supply here in the plant, I never went looking. Ferric Chloride and Nitric acid are corrosive and considered hazardous Materials. These may or may not present a problem in locating them.

It takes very little to do a gun, so by the time you go to the trouble to get this stuff, you may have a 10 lifetime supply. I may have a solution for you if you really want to try your hand at this.

I plan on mixing up some extra and packaging them in 4 oz bottles. These I would make available to forum members at my cost plus shipping. I am going to have to check on shipping costs for such small quantities. There is a Haz Mat surcharge for larger shipments that run $20.00. I am checking on this. I imagine this will be a very limited interest group, so mass production will not be in the cards.

I also have written up some instructions on application if anyone is interested. Anyone getting a sample of this formula must promise to hand finish the piece. A buffing wheel may be used as long as you stand at least 50 feet away from said wheel. More distance is recommended.

When I get the next formula going, I will post pictures of the results.

Warning - please see the warning on page 3 of this thread if you are mixing these chemicals.