RTF3TX Gunsmithing, a San Antonio gunsmith shop led by Master Gunsmith Roland Lamothe, has expanded its service menu to include custom pistol stippling, frame modifications, and premium Cerakote finishes. The shop has also announced that traditional small part hot caustic bluing will be available in the near future, broadening its capabilities for both modern and vintage firearm owners.
The expansion reflects a deliberate effort to combine modern finishing techniques with traditional craftsmanship, offering firearm owners a range of options for functional and aesthetic improvements. Custom pistol stippling involves texturing polymer frames to improve grip retention, a modification that is permanent and directly influences handling. Lamothe, who brings military service and formal Master Gunsmith credentials to the work, applies controlled heat and steady technique to ensure precision in polymer work, where inconsistency can affect both appearance and function.
In addition to stippling, RTF3TX Gunsmithing now offers premium Cerakote finishes, a polymer-ceramic coating that provides resistance to corrosion, wear, and chemical exposure. Cerakote is widely used in custom builds and factory production due to its durability and color options. Lamothe’s approach to application follows the same methodical standard, with attention to surface preparation, coating thickness, and curing conditions.
The upcoming hot caustic bluing service is particularly notable for owners of vintage or collector-grade firearms. This technically demanding process involves immersing steel components in a heated solution of potassium nitrate and sodium hydroxide, producing a controlled oxidation layer that protects against rust and yields a deep blue-black appearance. When executed correctly, it closely replicates original factory bluing, making it a preferred choice for restoration work. The addition of this service positions RTF3TX Gunsmithing to serve a segment of firearm owners seeking traditional finishes without synthetic coatings.
The expansion underscores a commitment to preserving traditional craft methods alongside modern techniques. For firearm owners in the San Antonio area, the availability of hot caustic bluing fills a gap in the market for factory-grade restoration. Lamothe’s background, shaped by military discipline and formal training, provides the technical foundation required for these precision processes.
For more information, visit RTF3TX Gunsmithing.
