Gunmetal is primarily composed of copper (usually around 88-90%) and tin (about 9-10%). The presence of tin gives it a silvery appearance, which is where the name “gunmetal” originates. The inclusion of other elements is intended to improve specific properties of the alloy.

Gunmetal is commonly produced through sand casting, a traditional casting method that involves making a mold from compacted sand. The mold is created in the shape of the desired product, and then the molten gunmetal alloy is poured into the mold. Once it cools and solidifies, the mold is removed, leaving behind the cast gunmetal product.