Some items — including firearms and certain non-firearm parts — may require partial or full disassembly depending on the service requested. If disassembly is needed, it is billed at our standard shop rate. All firearms must pass a proper function check before work begins, and Howell Cerakote and Laser LLC will not perform services on any unsafe firearm. After reassembly, a second function check is performed to ensure proper operation. Non-firearm items may require an initial inspection to determine whether disassembly is necessary and whether the item is suitable for Cerakote or engraving.

Yes. We regularly coat and engrave tools, knives, tumblers, metal parts, motorcycle components, automotive parts and other compatible items. However, some materials, adhesives, plastics, and coatings may not be suitable for Cerakote or laser work. We may need to inspect the item first before accepting the job.

Yes. Certain projects—especially those involving complex parts, unknown materials, or detailed engraving—may require physical inspection before an accurate quote can be provided. This may involve sending your items or project to us for review so we can evaluate condition, fit, and feasibility.

Our shop rate applies to disassembly, reassembly, troubleshooting, prep work, and any additional labor not included in flat-rate pricing. The current rate is $125.00/hour and is subject to change.

You can contact us anytime with details about your project. Photos, part lists, and design ideas help us provide accurate pricing.

Cerakote is a world leader in thin film ceramic coating technology, known for exceptional durability, chemical resistance, abrasion resistance, and longterm protection. It’s trusted across firearms, automotive parts, industrial components, tools, and custom consumer items.

Cerakote delivers exceptional durability when applied correctly. While we do not offer a formal written warranty, we stand behind every project we complete. Although misuse or damage cannot be covered, we fully guarantee our workmanship and will address any concerns regarding the quality of our application.

Final pricing depends on several factors, including:

• The specific Cerakote product being applied
• Color choice (single color, multicolor, specialty finishes)
• Pattern complexity (camo, stencils, detailed layouts)
• Part condition (new, used, corrosion, prior coatings)
• The amount of prep work required

Coatings include thorough degreasing, media blasting, masking, and controlled curing for maximum durability and longterm performance.

Turnaround time depends on part condition, color choice, pattern complexity, curing time, and current workload. Most single color jobs are typically faster than multilayer camo or detailed stenciling. We’ll provide an estimated timeline with your quote.

Yes. We offer single color, multicolor, themed builds, and custom patterns. Complex designs may require additional setup time or design fees.

Absolutely. We regularly coat automotive parts, power sports components, tools, equipment, and custom consumer items.

In a word, no. Once Cerakote is cured it will not bond to itself. The only way to fix a bad spot in the Cerakote is to recoat the entire component. The finish will need to be removed down to the substrate material.

For projects with multiple parts, per piece pricing may decrease depending on quantity and complexity. We’ll evaluate your parts and provide a quantity based quote.

We engrave metals, polymers, coated surfaces, tumblers, knives, tools, and many custom items. If you’re unsure about the material, just ask.

Absolutely. We can engrave logos, symbols, text, graphics, and custom designs. Custom designs may require a setup or design fee to prepare files or fixtures. Vector-ready artwork is preferred, but we can help convert most images.

Yes. We offer engraving for text, serials, logos, stippling patterns, and custom artwork on slides, frames, receivers, and components.

Yes. Multipart or multi-item engraving projects may qualify for reduced per piece pricing.

It’s best if you don’t pre-prep your firearm before sending it in. Proper surface preparation is critical for achieving strong adhesion and a high quality finish. Because this work requires precision, we handle all prep in-house to protect the existing finish, stampings, and engravings. Any damage to those areas can lead to significant additional labor, so keeping the prep process under our control ensures the best results.

Yes. Firearm components can be sent separately. For example, if you only want a slide Cerakoted, there is no need to send the entire firearm. This helps reduce shipping cost, complexity, and paperwork.

Yes. Any time you send items—firearm components, accessories, or custom parts—you must include a parts/item list that clearly identifies everything in the package. This ensures accurate tracking, quoting, and return shipping.

NO, typically if we cannot source parts for the model of firearm you have we will not take the firearm in for service. Keep in mind that if you do not know what model you have we do not know as well and will refrain from working on it. The firearms we take on are on a case-by-case basis and it is best to email us ahead of time to find out. Note: We do not work on air rifles, muzzle loaders, antique exposed hammer guns, Damascus barrel guns and any firearms deemed unsafe or illegal.

We recommend you package the firearm yourself. You know how fragile a firearm can be. There is no such thing as over packaging when shipping a firearm. Make sure that all components are well protected from each other and if you are not shipping in a case, double boxed in heavy cardboard. Include in the package a detailed letter or download our repair form, describing the work you wish to quote on or the exact mechanical problem you are experiencing. Make sure your contact information with a daytime telephone number and return shipping information is present in the letter as well. We will contact you once we have had a chance to look over your firearm. When shipping a firearm, always insure against worst case scenario so, insure for the entire replacement cost. We accept firearms from any of the major shipping agents, UPS, Fed-Ex, US Mail, DHL etc. Firearms are returned using UPS exclusively. Also, make sure that a signature is required to accept the delivery.

Note: Firearms being sent for service can be sent by an individual, they do not require transfer through an FFL licensee. 

Due to recent policy changes made by most common carriers, handguns must be shipped either UPS (View the UPS Firearms Policy) or through an FFL and returned to the same FFL. Long guns may still be shipped through USPS directly to Howell Cerakote & Laser LLC. without using an FFL holder for a transfer. It is best to contact your local shipping facility to verify if they will be able to accept your shipment. In all cases, the firearm must be returned to the same person/entity that sent the firearm to Howell Cerakote & Laser LLC. NO EXCEPTIONS.

Yes. A one-hour estimate charge will be charged, and normal return shipping charges apply.

Because we test fire most firearms after repair we will need the entire firearm. Exceptions can be made for some services such as sight installs, Stuck choke tube etc. Please email us if you are uncertain.

We provide general repairs, diagnostics, sight installation, bore sighting, red dot mounting, parts fitting, cleaning, inspection, and ultrasonic cleaning. Our facility is an American Gunsmithing Institute Certified Service Center with Certified gunsmith and Red Dot Sight installer.

No. We focus on essential gunsmithing services, repairs, sight work, and maintenance.