Quote Originally Posted by nikonman View Post
With regard to the black pellet carrier: To quote from, 'Umarex Replica Airguns:1996-2014', by Steve MacGregor, "Umarex explained that the tolerances between the pellet carrier, barrel and firing valve were so critical that it simply was not possible to apply a nickel coating to the pellet carrier and maintain an effective seal."

Also, from the same publication, "A small number of 6" 686 versions were produced in a "steel" finish in 2008/2009. This is a lighter, shinier version of the standard nickel finish."

This is not to be confused with the limited quantity steel PPC 1500 version that was produced in 2006.
Can't see that being true - when a plating process will be far more controllable thickness wise than the paint/lacquer they used.
I'm pretty sure the PPC1500 versions were not any kind of steel either...just steel 'finish' - be it paint or electroplate.
I've also only ever seen the 'stainless' and PPC1500 finishes - was there actually a third bright metal finish back then?