It's a minor annoyance, but I've just discovered that the top of the slide on my Pro (Black T) has been marred by the contact with the vinyl (?) coated pistol rack in the safe. The AK coated TRP in the next "stall" has no marks. The marks do not buff out and normal cleaning solvents don't touch them. Both pistols get used about the same, but I've had the TRP a good bit longer than the Pro.

 

the Black-T is a soft finish as skipsan has mentioned. I bet you can just look at it and it'll get a mark. AK is a more durable finish. The advantage of Black-T isn't the visual durability, but the corrosion resistance that it provides.

the Operator is Black-T, the TRP is AK.

 

The black in the Black T will wear off quicker, but will not rust once worn to the white. It is worth the extra money to me. I like a well worn pistol, but hate rust. The Acote is not as corrosion resistant.

 

BlackT is also applied to most of the small internal parts.

 

From the Custom Shop:

Both Black T and Armory Kote are painted on, baked on finishes. Black T is Teflon based; Armory Kote is moly bases. Both are more durable than parkerizing or bluing, but will still show wear over time. Armory Kote is done in house; while we have to send handguns out for Black T finish.


Deb
Springfield Custom
Springfield Inc.
420 West Main St.
Geneseo, IL 61254
800-680-6866, ext. 8920
800-617-6751
customshop@springfield-armory.com


Good afternoon,
The Armory Kote is a finish that is baked on Teflon impregnated polymer coating. The finish has a 40 hour salt water corrosion resistance. It is a smooth self lubricating finish which allows for easier holster removal. It will not scratch like traditional bluing or Parkerizing. The Black T finish is a lot like the Armory Kote, but it is a thicker powder based finish which tightens up the firearms. It also is self lubricating and as tough as the Armory Kote. Also if you request that all the parts are done they will be.
Enjoy the day!
Trisha
Customer Service Representative
Springfield Inc
1-800-680-6866
tkuster@springfield-armory.com

 

I was told by the late Walter Birdsong that their Black T type coatings are being used by the navy. The 40hr Akote rating is nothing.