Which is better a better choice for me?

[coyotecaller]

I have an old "Commie" pistol, a 1953 Tokarev. I bought it cheap not too long ago and the previous owner had painted it black with crappy paint that is peeling and coming off. It's also sticky to the touch as you handle it. It seems like there is absolutely no bluing left on the steel. The pistol shoots great, surprisingly awesome trigger and accurate with all kinds of ammo. To cut to the chase, I want to get it refinished right and professionally. What is a better option for me, ceracote, gun coating or powder coating? If there are other better options, I'm all ears. Thanks in advance for looking and any input you share here
Max

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[Caveman Jim]

Take it to a reputable gunsmith to get it checked & then to a cerakote company for the finish.

 

[twa2471]

If it's a beater anyways, why not just do a light glass bead blast and have it sent out for blueing or parking. Not to expensive and probably the most rugged option I'd think. I did that on an old Marlin 30-30 that shoots like a house a fire and it's still going strong 35-40 years later. Just my 2 cents worth,,,

 

[dangerranger60]

If it were mine Id have it Parkerized. I think that was the original finish. DR

 

[fraidenburg]

If it's a beater anyways, why not just do a light glass bead blast and have it sent out for blueing or parking. Not to expensive and probably the most rugged option I'd think. I did that on an old Marlin 30-30 that shoots like a house a fire and it's still going strong 35-40 years later. Just my 2 cents worth,,,

Do not use glass bead. All this will do is dimple the metal and not prep it for a new finish. I would recommend aluminum oxide #120

 

[Flymph]

I'd strip the paint off and blue it on my stove top, but that's just me.
It's a commie gun!
HAVE FUN WITH THAT POS!

 

[IronMonster]

Yeah.... I would strip it and cold blue it myself. I have done several handguns that way and if you take your time it's not only fun they turn out great.

 

[308]

CitriStrip will help get the paint off.

Oxpho-Blue from Brownells works great for doityourselfers.