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How to Refinish Scopes

Refinishing a scope is similar to refinishing the surface of a firearm, and can be done with an airbrush. If you choose not to refinish your scope in its original color, there are a variety of different colored finishes to choose from. You can even refinish your scope with a camouflage pattern if you choose to do so. Refinish your scope with a combination of finish and hardener solution. Disposable aerosol powered airbrushes are available if you choose not to invest in an air compressor and airbrush.

Things You'll Need

Finish
Hardener
Syringe
Degreaser/stripper
600 grit sandpaper
Airbrush
Masking tape
Fish line
Razor blade
Rubbing alcohol

Instructions

- 1
  Completely cover your lenses with masking tape and use a razor blade to cut away any excess tape; take care not to damage your lenses while doing so.
- 2
  Lightly sand any scratches or blemishes on the surface of your scope with your 600 grit sandpaper. It is not necessary to completely sand down the surface.
- 3
  Use a degreaser or stripper solution to completely clean the surface of your scope.
- 4
  Use masking tape to attach your fishing line to the taped surface of your scope lens. Use the fishing line to suspend the scope in mid-air.
- 5
  Mix your finish and hardener solution in the airbrush paint container. Use your syringe to add ingredients for the proper ratio of approximately 10 to 14 parts finish to 1 part hardener.
- 6
  Apply an even coat of finish to the surface of your scope with your airbrush. Allow the scope a minimum of 12 hours to dry, then take down the scope. The finish is dry, but does not completely cure for least 30 days. During that time, try to minimize contact with the surface of the scope.
- 7
  Remove the tape from the lenses and clean up the adhesive with rubbing alcohol.

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