Before

As-machined 416 stainless steel revolver trigger prior to automated polishing, showing uneven surface texture and machining marks.
Surface metrology scan of an as-machined 416 stainless steel revolver trigger, illustrating high surface roughness before automated finishing.

After

Polished 416 stainless steel revolver trigger after automated mass finishing, showing a smooth, uniform surface while maintaining part geometry.
Surface metrology scan of an as-machined 416 stainless steel revolver trigger, illustrating high surface roughness before automated finishing.

Objective

Automate the polishing of 416 stainless steel revolver triggers to replace labor-intensive hand finishing while achieving a consistent, high-quality surface finish suitable for critical functional components.

Part DescriptionRevolver Trigger
IndustryFirearms/Weaponry
Fabrication MethodCast/Molded, CNC Machined
Material416 Stainless Steel/Inconel
Process TypePolishing
Equipment TypeCentrifugal Disc Finisher, Centrifugal Barrel Finisher/Harperizer

Solution

Bel Air developed an automated mass finishing process to polish 416 stainless steel revolver triggers that previously required extensive hand polishing. The process was engineered to produce a uniform surface finish while preserving critical geometry and functional features.

Using high-energy centrifugal finishing technologies, the automated workflow uniformly refined both external and contact surfaces across the trigger’s complex geometry. The result was consistent, repeatable polishing from part to part with reduced surface variation.

This optimized finishing process significantly reduced manual labor while increasing throughput, making it well suited for firearms production environments where consistent surface quality, repeatability, and reliable part function are critical.

If you are unsure what equipment and media you require to achieve your desired surface finish, then send us your part, and we will evaluate it and provide you with a metrology report.