Im wondering as to how i darken the slide and frame of an airsoft 1911 pistol. I polished off all the black paint and exposed the chromish aluminum. I have some ideas to darken the metal but not sure. Maybe using olive oil and heating it up but im afraid i might warp the metal. I want it to come out sort of like a greyish gunmetal. Anybody know of a good process to give that worn out war like effect to the gun without painting it?With aluminum, you would need to purchase a special aluminum darkening chemical if you do not want to risk warping the metal using the heated olive oil technique. The chemicals (brands such as Jax or Birchwood Casey) are available at many hobby shops.Darken AluminumUse gun bluing . It is the stuff they use on steel guns, it is kind of a dye. Got at a sports store that sells real guns.i have been surfing more than 4 hours today seeking the answer to the same question, and I haven\'t found a more interesting debate like this. it is pretty worth enough for me.Have it powder coatedOther related question