
Polymer 80 is a type of firearm that does not come serialized. Some people recommend putting your own serial number on it, which can be accomplished through electro etching, etching tools, engraving, or metal stamping. However, it is important to check local laws and regulations before proceeding, as there may be legal requirements or restrictions on serializing firearms. Some sources suggest that it may be illegal not to serialize a firearm, especially if there are plans to sell it, while others state that it is optional.
Characteristics and Values Table for Polymer 80 Electro Etching
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Reasons for Serializing | Theft, selling, or SBRing a gun |
| Methods | Electro etching, etching tool, engraving, metal letter stamping/punch tool, metal stamps, laser engraving |
| DIY Options | Electro etching, metal stamps, laser engraving |
| Professional Options | Engraving shops, trophy shops, gun shops |
| Legality | Depends on state laws and whether the gun is complete |
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What You'll Learn

Electro etching with a 12V DC at 2.25 amps
Electro etching is a process used to serialize Polymer 80-style frames for firearms. Serialization is done for theft or police custody reasons. It is important to check local laws before serializing a Polymer 80.
Electro etching can be done with a 12V DC at 2.25 amps. This setup can be achieved with a 12V DC charger, which can be purchased at a thrift store. The charger can then be connected to the "+" terminal of the voltage using an M4 nut and a 20mm M4 screw.
To create the etching template, electrical tape can be used to mask the area to be etched. However, electrical tape is not suitable for fine work due to its stretchiness and difficulty in cutting accurately. A better alternative is to use a stencil, which can be secured using a "serial plate push".
For the etching process itself, a salt water solution can be used as the electrolyte. Alligator clips can be connected to the charger leads and suspended in the salt water solution to perform the etching.
It is worth noting that the voltage and amperage settings may need to be adjusted depending on the specific application and desired etching depth. Some experimentation may be required to find the optimal settings. Additionally, safety precautions should be followed when working with electricity and corrosive solutions.
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Using a jig to connect the + terminal of the voltage
When it comes to serializing a Polymer 80, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, it's important to check your local laws and regulations regarding firearm serialization and ensure you are complying with any necessary requirements. Some people recommend putting your own "serial number" on your firearm for identification purposes, especially if it's stolen or used in self-defence.
Now, to connect the "+" terminal of the voltage when serializing a Polymer 80 through electro-etching, you can use a jig along with an M4 nut and a 20mm M4 screw. This process involves using a voltage source to power an electrochemical reaction that etches the serial number onto the firearm.
Here's a step-by-step guide on how to use a jig to connect the "+" terminal of the voltage:
- Ensure you have the necessary tools and safety equipment. This includes items such as a wire stripper, a screwdriver, and the appropriate power supply and terminal block for your specific setup.
- Prepare the jig by securing the M3 nuts and bolts to mount the panel mount plug. Snap-fit or tighten the receptacle, switch, and terminal block into place, using the provided nut for the fuse.
- Connect the power supply. The input side of the terminal block connects to the primary power source, while the output side distributes regulated power to the devices in your system. Pay close attention to the input voltage, frequency, and current requirements as stipulated by the power supply manufacturer.
- Use the jig to connect the "+" terminal of the voltage source to the serial number plate on the firearm. Ensure a secure connection by tightening any necessary screws or using spring-clamp mechanisms.
- Proceed with the electro-etching process. For Polymer 80-style frames, a voltage of 12V DC at 2.25 amps is recommended.
- Optional: Utilize the included "serial plate push" model to help secure the stencil to the serial plate, ensuring a clear and accurate etching.
Remember to exercise caution and follow safety protocols when working with electricity and firearms. It is also advised to research and understand the legal implications of serializing or modifying firearms in your jurisdiction.
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Engraving with a laser engraver
Laser engraving is a process that uses a laser beam to selectively remove microscopic layers of material, creating visible marks on the treated surface. The laser beam is directed towards a rotating or vibrating mirror, which traces out numbers and letters onto the surface being marked. This method is commonly used for printing dates, expiry codes, and lot numbering on products on a production line.
A laser engraving machine consists of three main parts: a laser, a controller, and a surface. The laser acts as a drawing tool, emitting a beam that allows the controller to trace patterns onto the surface. The controller determines the direction, intensity, speed of movement, and spread of the laser beam aimed at the surface. The surface is chosen to match the type of material the laser can act on. The point where the laser beam touches the surface is typically small, perhaps less than a fraction of a millimetre, and only the area inside this focal point is significantly affected.
Laser engraving is highly versatile and can be used on both delicate and hard materials. It can effectively engrave wood, leather, fabric, metals, acrylic, glass, and stone. The process is also notably fast, with desktop laser engravers operating at speeds ranging from 300 to 600 mm/s, while more advanced models can reach speeds of 10,000 mm/s.
Prior to starting a laser engraving project, it is important to ensure that your machine setup, mirror alignment, and ramp test have been completed. Additionally, consider using masking, a thin, paper-based tape that adheres to the surface to be engraved, to achieve clean designs with minimal charring.
When engraving a serial number onto a Polymer 80-style frame, it is important to first check your local laws and regulations. If serialisation is required or desired, laser engraving can be an effective method to mark the build with a unique serial number or combination of letters and numbers. This process can help identify your firearm if it is ever stolen or used without your consent.
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Using a metal stamping/punch tool
When using a metal stamping or punch tool to serialize a Polymer 80, it is important to take precautions to avoid damaging the frame. It is recommended to have an object such as a large bolt or a similar large piece of metal or wood placed in the channel between the plate and the work surface when turning the frame over. This will help prevent any unwanted marks or damage to the frame.
Before beginning the serialization process, it is crucial to check your local laws and regulations regarding firearm serialization. If you plan to sell or transfer the firearm, different rules may apply. Some sources suggest that it is illegal not to serialize a firearm once it is completed. However, others state that serialization is only required if you intend to sell or register the firearm. It is advisable to consult with local gunsmiths or relevant authorities to ensure compliance with the applicable laws.
When using a metal stamping or punch tool, ensure that the metal insert or engraving plate is sturdy enough to withstand the force of the punch. Some users have reported that the inside of the engraving plate on Polymer 80s is not reinforced enough to handle solid letter punches, which can result in a cracked frame. To mitigate this risk, one suggestion is to use a 3/4" nut on the inside for additional support. Lean the stamp slightly in each direction and tap it gently to create a clear impression. Practising on a soft metal surface, such as a cut-up soda can, can help you get a feel for the tool before stamping your Polymer 80.
It is worth noting that serial numbers carved directly into the polymer of a Polymer 80 may be easily removed. Therefore, some users opt for metal stamps or engraving tools to mark their firearms. Metal stamps are available at hardware stores like Harbor Freight for affordable prices, typically around $10. This option allows you to choose your serial number and ensures that it remains known only to you.
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Serializing with a unique number/letter combination
When it comes to serializing a Polymer 80 with a unique number/letter combination, there are a few methods you can use. Firstly, it's important to check your local laws and regulations regarding firearm serialization and proceed accordingly. One popular method is electro-etching, where you can use a jig to help etch the serial number plate onto the Polymer 80. This process requires connecting the "+" terminal of the voltage with the help of a jig, an M4 nut, and a 20mm M4 screw.
Another method is to use an etching tool or a metal letter stamping/punch tool to create a unique number/letter combination. You can also engage the services of a gunsmith or a local engraving shop to serialize your firearm. Some people have also recommended using a laser engraver, which can be effective for both metal and plastic surfaces.
When creating a unique number/letter combination, you can assign each letter a specific value. For example, represent each letter by a five-digit binary digit, such as "a" as 00001 and "b" as 00010, and so on. This way, the word "cat" would be written as 00100 00001 01100 in binary, which can be converted to the decimal number 4140. This process ensures a unique identification for your Polymer 80.
Additionally, you can add an ordering number to any existing string to create a unique combination. For instance, you can use key(int)-value(string) pairs stored in a database to generate unique identifiers. It's important to note that serialization methods may vary, and you should always prioritize legality, safety, and compliance with local regulations when serializing a firearm.
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Frequently asked questions
Serializing a Polymer 80 can help identify and prove ownership of the firearm if it is ever stolen or used in self-defence.
The legality of serializing a Polymer 80 varies depending on location. It is recommended to check local laws and regulations before proceeding.
There are several methods for serializing a Polymer 80, including electro etching, etching tools, engraving, metal letter stamping, and punch tools.
When serializing a Polymer 80, it is important to ensure that the serial number is unique and identifiable. It is also recommended to have an object such as a large bolt or a similar piece of metal or wood to support the frame during the process.

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