CSMC RBL Case Colors

[Brett Trimble]

I have read various opinions concerning the case coloring on RBLs. Does anyone know if the receivers are actually case hardened? Or are they chemically treated in some way to have the appearance of case hardening?

Brett

[matt koepnick]

Hey Brett. Of the 4 I have owned, hunted with, and shot the heck out of; none have worn off the coloring at the hinge points or the receivers. They were 12,16,20, and 28 gauges. Some at hinge had very minor wear spots , but all are still intact along with the rest of the entire receiver. Amazingly durable to me. Most are 5 years or more in my possession.
My only Repro wore off most of it's colors in it's 4 year duration, including receiver underneath. But to answer your question, don't know for sure. Mattly

[Brett Trimble]

Thanks Matt, very helpful to hear real world experience!

[Researcher]

When the 20-gauge RBL "Launch Edition" was brought out they came standard with a French Grayed receiver. Color Case Hardened receiver was a $250 extra. When I went with the PGCA tour of CSMC back at the old facility we saw the color case hardening ovens, but that was long before they moved into the old Stanley works plant.

[Andrew Frank]

I just purchased an RBL and I was told they use traditional bone and charcoal process. I haven't had it long enough to say on the longevity of the colors yet.

[Big D]

My Launch edition had the colors flake off at the rear of the receiver within 6 months of minimal use. Sent it back, colors were redone, and have been fine since. Doesn't sound like care hardening to me

[Brett Trimble]

Thanks for your replies!

John, I think I remember you posting this before and is why I asked the question.

I have a “Savage Fox” and really like it. It’s really just an RBL with a tiny “Fox” inscription on the side. That said, they claim the wood has an oil finish when clearly it is some kind of shiny polymer clear coat al la Browning. That makes me wonder about the case color claim..

Best,
Brett