Fifty Shades of FDE and Anodized Finishes
When it comes to firearms finishes, the AR-15 community has witnessed a robust debate between traditional anodized finishes and contemporary alternatives like Cerakote. In this Steelopedia post, we’ll break down the concept of anodized finishes for AR-15s, exploring how they are made and go over the compelling benefits that make them a top choice for enthusiasts and professionals alike.
The Art of Anodizing
The Anodizing Process
Anodizing is an electrochemical process that enhances the surface of aluminum, making it more durable, corrosion-resistant, and visually appealing. The process involves immersing the aluminum part in an electrolyte bath, which is charged with an electric current. This causes an oxide layer to form on the surface of the aluminum, creating the anodized finish.
Coloring the Finish
One remarkable aspect of anodized finishes is their ability to retain colors. Through anodizing, you can achieve a spectrum of colors, from classic black to vibrant red or blue. This coloring process is achieved by introducing dyes into the anodizing bath, allowing the aluminum to absorb the dye molecules and lock in the desired hue.
Benefits of Anodized Finishes
Durability and Corrosion Resistance
One of the primary advantages of anodized finishes is their exceptional durability. The anodized layer is an integral part of the aluminum, making it highly resistant to abrasion and wear. Additionally, this finish provides excellent corrosion resistance, ensuring your AR-15 remains rust-free even in challenging environments.
Lightweight and Non-Reflective
Anodized finishes are incredibly lightweight, adding minimal weight to your AR-15. Moreover, they offer a non-reflective matte surface, reducing glare and minimizing the risk of giving away your position when in the field.
Enhanced Paint Adhesion
If you decide to add custom paint or camouflage to your AR-15, anodized finishes provide an ideal substrate. The porous surface created during anodizing improves paint adhesion, ensuring that your chosen designs stay intact, even under heavy use.
Cost-Effective
Compared to alternative finishes like Cerakote, anodized finishes are often more cost-effective. This affordability allows gun owners to allocate their budgets to other essential upgrades or accessories for their AR-15s.
Anodized Finishes vs. Cerakote and Others
Anodized vs. Cerakote
While Cerakote offers impressive durability and resistance to chemicals, anodized finishes excel in overall longevity and corrosion resistance. Cerakote can be prone to chipping or wearing in high-friction areas, whereas anodized finishes, being integral to the metal, maintain their integrity even under harsh conditions.
Customization
Both anodized finishes and Cerakote allow for customization through color options. However, anodized finishes offer a more traditional and classic appearance, while Cerakote can achieve a wider range of textures and patterns.
Weight
Anodized finishes are generally lighter than Cerakote due to the minimal material added during the process. This makes them an ideal choice for those who prioritize a lightweight firearm.
In the world of AR-15 finishes, anodized coatings stand as a testament to longevity, reliability, and cost-effectiveness. While Cerakote and other modern finishes have their merits, anodized finishes continue to be the go-to choice for many firearm enthusiasts and professionals. Their unmatched durability, corrosion resistance, and lightweight nature make them a steadfast companion for any AR-15 owner. Whether you’re building a tactical tool or a competition rifle, the enduring allure of anodized finishes remains a hallmark of the AR-15 platform.
