I’m building an SBR using a factory-Cerakoted FDE Aero Precision lower. I usually have my SBRs engraved on the right side, above the trigger pins, using a font about the same size as the factory markings. I’ve never cared about “hiding it” that much, and it doesn’t really stand out in that location, anyway. A little Al Black and it pretty much disappears.
So, my question is: will laser engraving (THSF has been my go-to) burn through the Cerakote into the Aluminum, leaving raw, shiny aluminum? I don’t know the nominal thickness of Cerakote.
Here’s my dilemma: if it does leave shiny aluminum, my choices are silver (ugh) or using Al Black, and ending up with very distinct black-on-FDE lettering on the side of the receiver, which I’m not hot on.
If it doesn’t, i.e. the .003” engraving is less than the nominal thickness of the Cerakote, we’re good to go with engraving over the trigger pins. If is DOES, then I’ll probably have it engraved inside the trigger guard, all stealthy-like, to minimize the black lettering.
Anybody know?