Has anyone used the home nickle plating kits?

[Ace Lungger]

I was wondering if any of you pards have used any of the many home plating kits? I have used electrolise to remove excess rust off of CW artifacts. But never the plating!

I would be very greatfull for any and all advice!
thanks ACE

[Forty Rod]

Ace, I had one from Texas Platers Supply over 35 years ago.  It was powered by those big dry cell batteries and worked pretty well for small parts, but wasn't very good on anything very big.

Preparation of the part is similar to bluing, and you have to lay down a layer of copper over the steel or iron before applying the nickel.

[Professor Marvel]

Greetings Ace -
Whilst I have not yet done any nickel plating, I have been investigating it and have been warned away from the $40-$50 "home kits".
I have been advised by some who are doing quite a bit of anodizing and plating to spring for a good power supply, and a recommended
supplier is Caswells http://www.caswellplating.com/kits/nickel.htm?gclid=CNLzjM_BlpQCFQQbFQodsXcsuQ
I obtained a really great lab power supply from ebay, and hope to start plating as soon as the homestead repairs are under control.

your humble servant
Prof Marvel

[Pitspitr]

Hi Ace
I have the Caswell. It plugs in, so no batteries to fool with. It'll work on small parts, but wouldn't be any good for big parts and the plating wouldn't be durable enough for something like a gun, as it will "polish" right off. If you're touching up a small part or repairing a scratch it should be fine for that.