Case color protection
 

I am getting a DelGrego restored 20ga Parker and want to preserve the case colors but want to use the gun not let it sit in the case all the time. How is the best way (other than not useing a gun) to protect the case colors fron wearing off? Is there a coating or special treatment that can be applied.
Thanks
Gerald

PS: When I Bought my first two Parkers (16 on an 0 and then a month later a 20 on an 0) I declared I had Parkeritis. I was told that there was no cure that one would only progress to guns of higher value. Well that was prophetic. Now I have spent til it hurts. Only relief from the pain is to gather my "babies" up in my arms and give them each a little shoulder hug.

Progressing to higher value didn't happen with me because I never found a better-handling Parker than 16 on an 0.

A Behlen spray finish was once recommended but everything Behlen makes seems to be directed toward wood finishes. I don't remember the name of the product. OK, here it is, straight from Oscar Gaddy. Behlen Jet Spray Clear Gloss, item number B101-0800. I assume that is a Behlen part number, or maybe not. I have read one recommendation for the B101-801, which is Clear Satin. I would think the gloss would be preferred. It's about $6.95 a can.

With great success I use Formbys Tung oil. Thoroughly clean metal and using a small 1/2" flat artists brush I apply it. No need to put it on thick. It is thin enough to smooth itself out. Work fairly fast because it will soon thicken and leave brush marks if you go over it a second time. Couple days and its ready for some hard use. Others successfully use the traditional lacquer coating. I prefer the Tung oil. I believe Danish oil would work just as well.

For years people used shellac. It sure worked for preserving colors. But it would yellow over time. Something like tung oil or Danish oil should work well.

While we're on this subject, another related one..do you polish and buff your wood? What would you use?

Wax.

I'm on the same can of Johnson's floor wax that I believe belonged to my Mom. She died in 1960. The can is about empty. I'll keep my eyes peeled at yard sales for a replacement.

Bill, my dad used Johnson's wax but he added a little melted beeswax to it to make it harder. And yes I still have that can around here too, doesn't take much.

Minwax paste wax is very similar to Johnson's. Works very well. Also good for barrels and other metal parts though not long term durable.