Aluminum protection / anodizing needed?

[RJLou]

I recently sandblasted the factory paint off of my 10/22 receiver (wanted it to match my stainless barrel).

Being aluminum, does it need anodizing or any kind of protectant/seal/finish?

If it does, any recommendations? I don't want to change the appearance at all as it matches the barrel perfectly now.

[henpecked]

Aluminum will eventually oxide and need to be re bead blasted. They can put a clear anodizing on it.

[BPTactical]

How about stainless MolyResin?
The anodizing is a hard coat surface treatment for Al. Without it it will as mentioned oxidize.
What do you get when aluminum oxidizes?
Aluminum oxide.
Same stuff sandpaper is made from, very abrasive. It will also allow the receiver will scratch easily and your nice blasted finish will turn dull grey eventually. It will also be more prone to corrosion.

[Tinelement]

So, are you asking does it need a coating to prevent finger prints, oil spots, etc??

Once aluminum, or steel, or stainless is blasted and exposed to the elements, it's oxidizing.

Now, if you buy a brand lower. Blast it. Shoot the crap outta it. Never clean it. Etc. Etc. You will never see a break down from oxidation in your lifetime. It ain't gonna look good but will work just fine!

[RJLou]

Ok, thanks guys. So to keep the appearance it has now, looks like I'll be trying some at home anodizing (clear).

[KS63]

Have tried calling some of the local anodizing shops about doing it for you? If your timing is right, they may have load set up in clear already. The price will be cheaper if they don't need to do a special batch just for you.

[Great-Kazoo]

Clear coat it. That is what ruger does after polishing the receiver.
Polish the receiver, fish scale it then clear coat.

[RJLou]

Have tried calling some of the local anodizing shops about doing it for you? If your timing is right, they may have load set up in clear already. The price will be cheaper if they don't need to do a special batch just for you.

I only found one shop in Longmont, they have a minimum so it would cost me $90, I was expecting about half of that... Didn't check outside of Longmont yet. In hindsight I should've asked if my receiver could be thrown in when they get another order.

Watched a few diy videos on it, looks pretty easy. If I screw it up beyond fixable (which is doubtful) it's just a 10/22, easy to replace.

[RJLou]

Clear coat it. That is what ruger does after polishing the receiver.
Polish the receiver, fish scale it then clear coat.

I considered clear coat, but figured eventually it would chip/scratch.

[nisils14]

http://www.cerakoteguncoatings.com/finishes/MC-155FQ/

maybe powder coat? I would think it's too thick for firearm stuff though.