When deciding between fiber and CO₂ laser engravers for gun engraving, it's important to understand the differences in how these technologies work and which materials they are best suited for.

Fiber Laser Engravers

Pros:

• Material Compatibility: Fiber lasers are particularly effective on metals, including stainless steel, aluminum, and other alloys commonly used in firearms. This makes them a great choice for engraving guns.
• Precision: They offer high precision and fine detail, making them suitable for detailed artwork, serial numbers, and intricate designs.
• Speed: Generally faster than CO₂ lasers when engraving metals.
• Maintenance: Require less maintenance compared to CO₂ lasers because they have fewer moving parts and no mirrors or lenses that need regular alignment.

Cons:

• Cost: Typically more expensive upfront than CO₂ laser systems.
• Versatility: Not as versatile with non-metal materials such as wood, acrylic, or glass, which may sometimes be part of custom firearm projects.

CO₂ Laser Engravers

Pros:

• Versatility: CO₂ lasers can work on a wide range of materials, including wood, plastic, leather, glass, and coated metals. This makes them ideal if you plan to engrave holsters, grips, or other accessories along with the firearm itself.
• Cost-effective: Usually more affordable than fiber lasers, both in terms of initial purchase price and operating costs.
• Large Work Area: Often come with larger work areas, allowing for bigger engravings without repositioning the item.

Cons:

• Metal Engraving Efficiency: While capable of marking anodized or coated metals, CO₂ lasers are not as efficient at engraving bare metal surfaces, especially those found on firearms, without special coatings.
• Maintenance: Requires more maintenance due to the presence of mirrors and lenses that need periodic cleaning and alignment.

Which is Best for Guns?

For most applications involving direct engraving on firearms, fiber laser engravers tend to be the better choice. Their ability to efficiently engrave on various metals with high precision and speed makes them well-suited for the task. Additionally, fiber lasers are better equipped to handle the specific demands of engraving firearms, such as creating deep, durable marks that comply with serialization requirements.

However, if your project involves engraving non-metallic parts or accessories, or if budget constraints are a major consideration, a CO₂ laser engraver might still be appropriate. In some cases, owning both types could provide the versatility needed to tackle a wider range of engraving tasks.

Always remember to consider local laws and regulations regarding firearm modifications before beginning any engraving project.