View Full Version : How to paint your AR with DuraCoat
Hey guys,
It’s your favorite newbie from So-Cal, http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/fun%20stuff/patriot.gif I hope everyone is well??. Since you guys liked my (how to make ballistics gel zombie heads) thread, I thought I would keep doing them if you don't mind?. This time I’m going to take you through (step by step) on how you can paint your own firearm (I’m such a giver! LOL).. using DuraCoat for the NEWBIE!.. That’s right even if you cant draw a stick figure, you can do this.. Hopefully http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/fun%20stuff/anim_rofl2.gif
I hope you enjoy the thread, (I’ll tell you now!) it is rather LOOOOOONG… and does contain LOOOOOOTTTTSSS of pictures, so before we start why don't you grab a bear, pour a glass of wine or lightem up if you got them.
Please NOTE:
I’m going to be showing you using my KISS AR sporting my latest creation Zombie camo, I thought about doing this with a regular digital camo pattern but that’s to boring and I don't believe it quite lives up the standards (new and cutting edge) of the M4 site. So with that said lets go where few have gone before and take the plunge into the unknown..
Let’s begin with the basics: http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/fun%20stuff/popcorn1.gif
Materials that you will need for this project consist of but are not limited to:
1. Small air compressor (it only needs to provide 40 PSI) you can by a cheep one here for like $80.00 http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=93657
2. cheepo airbrush (yes that right a cheepo!) $14.00 dollar one works GREAT http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=95810
3. 1 roll of 4-6” blue masking tap (home depot or Lowes)
4. Wax paper (any food store)
5. Exacto knife and LOTS of spare blades (hardware store)
Optional items that are highly recommended:
1. Bottle of Vodka with some OJ for coloring
2. Bottle of wine (just let it breath first)
Step 1: Get an Idea of what you want to do..
Research all pictures, stencils and other rifles and pistols that can help you decide what you would like your firearm to look like when it completed, (goggle is your friend!) your really only limited to your imagination, the time and effort you put into to it..
(Check)
For what it worth!. http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/fun%20stuff/whistling.gif
I’m actually planning on using these different stencil kits for this project:
Lucky 13 http://www.coastairbrush.com/products.asp?cat=184
Son Of Skull Master Bonz http://www.coastairbrush.com/products.asp?cat=183
Richard markham Mini Skull set http://www.coastairbrush.com/proddet...prod=4842%2D00
Burial Ground http://www.coastairbrush.com/products.asp?cat=525
The Constitution and the grim reaper and about 50% of the skulls will all be hand done
However If you want a more traditional camo?? Then simply go here for the FREE digital stencils, print out any pattern and all you want for free.. http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/fun%20stuff/wink2.gif
http://tacticalcamo.com/MARPAT/digi.php
http://www.printmini.com/printables/mil/index.shtml
Making you own stencils:
Just incase you thinking to yourself, Ok link… this might be doable, but how can I make my own stencils and will they be any good? Will they last? Well? Will they?.. http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/fun%20stuff/toetap05.gif
Excellent question! And I’ve got you covered..
You can make (2) different types of your own stencils really easy and cheep by following these two method..
The first method is by making your own stickers / stencils:
1. Get some 4” – 6” blue masking tape. (yes it’s needs to be blue!) the blue signifies painters tape, low tack and will peel off easily (trust me!)
2. Get a roll of wax paper from your local grocery store
3. Cut the wax paper larger than a regular sheet of paper (8.5x11”)
4. Now take your blue tape and cover the piece of wax paper on both side with a few as strips as possible..
5. Now cut out a sheet size piece of paper (8.5x11”)
6. Now put this sheet into your printer and print out your desired image on it, since it’s the same size as a regular size piece of paper it will feed through your printer without any issues at all..
7. Now simple just spend the next few hours cutting out your pattern, please note that since you tapped up both sides of the wax paper you now have two stencils of the same pattern with only cutting out one.. (pretty cool ha!).. http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/fun%20stuff/punk.gif
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5881.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5882.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5883.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5884.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5885.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5886.jpg
The second method is a little more involved but these home made stencils are solvent proof and you will be able to reuse them for years to come.
1. Go to the nearest local hospital and ask for any and all (over exposed x-ray film) They will have tons of it all different sizes and it’s all free!.. You don't care if it black all over so just take it..
2. Get some White translucent vellum paper (try office depot)
3. lay your newly acquired vellum paper over your proposed image and trace it out (in pencil) Try to get as mush detail as possible, spend some time doing this.. NOTE: before you move on to the next step, photo copy your vellum sheet.
4. Now simply tape your vellum to your newly acquired x-ray film and with a brand new blade! Start cutting out your pattern.. you will need to change your blade about every 5 minutes, the flim will dull it quick and you really want a sharp blade to cut out all of the turns and detail. Spend a shit load of time on this!.. don't rush it!, this stencil will be used for years to come!, so get it right the first time.
5. Several hours and many drinks latter you’ve now completed your first of many stencils.. http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/fun%20stuff/party.gif
Step 2:
Review the different colors and (and existing patterns if you want) that DuraCoat has to offer. http://www.duracoat-finishes.com (Check)
Step 3:
Place your order for your paint, stencils, striper, thinner and clear. (it takes 5 days) (Check)
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5887.jpg
Step 4:
Prepare your rifle ie Dismantle everything as far down as you wish to go. NO you do not need to remove everything!, the advantage is the more your remove the better you can clean it!.. That’s it..
(Check)
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5567.jpg
Step 5:
Degrease everything! I used the DuraCoat degreaser (worked great) just sprayed the parts, let it dry and wipe it down (got tons of gunk off)
(Check)
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5569.jpg
Step 6:
Lightly sand all areas (except whatever parts are ‘park’) with 600 gr sand paper, your just lightly rougher up the surface here.. Don't go overboard people..
(Check)
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5570.jpg
Step 7:
Perform a final clean of all parts (do not use a terry towel/rag here) it will leave fuz balls and from this point forward you should wear rubber gloves as you don’t want your body oils on your clean metal or parts. I use two old tee shirts, the first pass is used with the color shirt, once I think everything is clean then I go over it all again with the white T and see how well I did.. Once that is complete I then (just for gins and giggles) blow it all down with air.
(Check)
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5572.jpg
Step 8:
Tape off all areas of everything that you don’t want painted and wipe everything down one more time.. You can use cotton balls here, they work great too..
(Check)
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5573.jpg
Step 9: (don’t skip this step!) (Have a drink! Maybe two)!
Now its time to sit back and review everything one more time as this is your last point of no return!.. Make sure you have your everything ready for painting, make sure you have your drying area and proper ventilation taken care of, make sure that you have removed all possible dust sources from your spraying area to ensure nothing gets in / on your freshly painted parts. Just make sure that you have doubled check your parts and that your ready for the next few hours of fun. Again, don't stress out, it doesn’t have to be perfect just free of free floating dust, put a fan near the door on the other end away from you, this will help dissipate the paint fumes.
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5576.jpg
Step 10:
Reach down grab the boys and begin down the road of the less traveled! http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/fun%20stuff/greensupergrin.gif
Mixing, testing and spraying
Mix your DuraCoat up (12 parts paint to – 1 part hardener) if you want a duller finish then go to 10-1, if you want a shinier finish then use 13/14-1.. (Check) NOTE: you can also buy the DuraCoat reducer and reduce your mixture up to 20% too.. learn more about the reducer and how it works on the duraCoat site..
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5575.jpg
1st light coat:
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5580.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5578.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5583.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5584.jpg
2nd light coat:
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5586.jpg
3rd and final light coat:
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5587.jpg
Step 11:
Now that all of your parts have been painted with your base color and it dried at least 24hrs!! if not 48hrs. Its time to make a choice here, you can do:
A. Assemble your rifle back up and at this point and continue on with your painting or your can do
B. Leave it as is and continue on.
Builder note:
I’m putting it back together at this point as I’ll have patterns that cross over different section of the rifle, + I’m a little concerned about how the paint thickness might affect it going back together.
You should be adding (your overall goal here) is about 1mill of paint on your rifle, your high wear areas should get about 1.5 -2mill,
Step 12:
Parts are dry now it time for the re-installation of the rifle
(Check)
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5590.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5591.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5592.jpg
Builders note: You can help along the drying process (as long as the wife doesn’t find out) Just set your oven to warm (approx 110 degrees) and warm each part for 15 minuets, this helps speed up the curing time (drastically).. The directions say 2-3hrs (bull crap!) 24hrs without backing it.. I let mine dry for 4hrs and then I backed them each for 15 minutes and then let them cool down for another 9 hrs.
Then cool everything to room temperature for a few hours (in my case it was overnight) 8hrs.
Step 13:
Step back and take a look at your bad boy!, sure the base color is cool by itself but trust me, it only getting better from here..
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5600.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5601.jpg
Step 14:
Know you color scheme:
You should already know (have a good idea) where you are going to apply your second color coat. Personnaly for me this second & third color will allow me to add a two dimensional look into the project as some of the skulls with contain either both and or one of the other colors, then you add it the shading affect (shadows) to provide the viewer with a depth perception too.. ie. Add black to the areas on one side of the pictures and add a little white to the opposite side, this will produce a depth affect of the object. More on shading to come in further steps.
(Check)
Step 15: (fun part)
Layout and practice time (have fun!)… Yes.. This is where you get to have the enjoyment of laying out your parameters throughout the rifle and figuring out where you want to start and finish. I always get just smashed and have a great time doing this.. you can experiment with tons of different looks and variations, just have fun with it!.. Nothing permanent! It can all be painted “black” again so don't sweat it!...
(Check)
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5602.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5604.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5607.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5611.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5615.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5616.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5627.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5631.jpg
Now do a little practicing… Better pour yourself another one here!.. I we still a long way to go.. Hahahahaa..
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5628.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5629.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5636.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5637.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5638.jpg
(For what it worth) These are the (5) steps it takes me to complete one Pic.. (See I told you I would walk you guys through this stuff)..
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5729.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5731.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5732.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5733.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5734.jpg
Step 16:
Mix your paint, Cutout / paint your pattern!. Go slow no rush here…
Remember even a airbrush gives / provides (overspray) so be sure to mask off all areas that your not working on the stencil and go over it several times in small light coats.. Start at the end (outer edge) of the design and work your way inwards, I just use regular printing paper and tape it to areas I don't want any overspray on. Nothing to heavy here folks, you’re going to be going over it all again several times others times down the road, just try to get the overall layout of it of the picture your working on..
Once you’ve completed one side or a particular area of your rifle and you want to fill it in, Please re think that move.. NOTE. Once you mix up the duracoat with the hardener you only have 6hrs to use it up, it goes bad fast, so once you mix up your paint, spray as much as you can in that 6hr period and remember you will need to wait 20 minutes between coats and colors too. Plus there’s the wife and kids. Blaa, blaa, blaa.. times flies by, just an FYI..
(Check)
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5683.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5685.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5687.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5688.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5689.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5690.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5692.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5695.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5697.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5700.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5702.jpg
Right side:
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5720.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5722.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5724.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5725.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5728.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5743.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5744.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5745.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5746.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5753.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5755.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5756.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5766.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5763.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5764.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5765.jpg
Step 17:
Once your main design is completed and has dried for 2 hrs!.. Now you can proceed with filling in the empty spaces, you can use whatever you want, ie (grass blades, trees, swards, helmets, shields) or just shade it all in, it totally up to and your style. Since this is my KISS (keep is simple stupid) rifle I’m not going to go overboard here I’m just going to keep it simple add some shading, a few “affects” and call it night..
(Check)
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5704.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5706.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5768.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5769-1.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5771.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5772.jpg
Step 18: (Working it!)
YEP.. You heard right, this is where you re-do all of the eyes, mouths and work on your detail into everything!.. This is were I wasn’t happy with my front hand guard and replaced it at the last minute, sure I had to paint it all up but it was worth the extra $$ and effort (I think)
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5777.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5778.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5779.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5781.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5782.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5783.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5785.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5786.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5787.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5795-1.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5797.jpg
This is also where you paint-up of all of your goodies too.. I’m doing a (FAKE) Eotech and my Aimpoint 3x’s
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5827.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5836.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5843.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5848.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5849.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5850.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5880.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5905.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5912.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5915.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5916.jpg
Several drinks and about 1hr later I have this..
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5975.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5976.jpg
Step 19: (Double checking everything!)
Go back over everything, every detail, every wrinkle, every shadow and make that your happy with it!, that you can live with this for a while! And if your not smiling at this point!!!!!.. Then you need to stop and PM ME!.. shoot me over some pics and I’ll help you save it!.. No worries.. But you should be really happy with yourself at this point team.. When you find the small imperfections simply just redue them and move along with life..
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5775.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5776.jpg
Step 20: (Sealing your rifle)
Congratulations!.. let me be the first to say (YOU THE MAN!) and that’s looking too sweet for words.. You have just completed your first of many custom paintjobs.. Again it doesn’t have to be anything fancy BUT!.. Yes theirs a but!.. before you run off and show all of your buddies at the range, or post it up on the boards you really should (it’s not mandatory!) but you really should seal your rifle at this point!.. YES even the good folks at DuraCoat recommend a sealer and they sell it in flat.. There are many, many advantages of using a sealer at the end of your project.. here are just a few:
1. It will protect your finish from scratches (it took you 3 weeks to get to this point) don't wreck the finish
2. It will help blend in your painted areas
3. It provide and nice even matt look to your firearm
4. etc
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5977.jpg
Step 21: (You are done!)
Show everyone your new baby!.. Go out and shoot it and have fun, post it up for the team to see..
Before:
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5065.jpg
After!.
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5964.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5963.jpg
Before:
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5066.jpg
After!.
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5978.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5979.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5980.jpg
Did I make the reapers blade to short?? I’m thinking I did..
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5981.jpg
Now comes the true test… sure you might be saying.. Well link that ok or maybe cool but there is NO way in hell that things passes off as camo!.. Dude you’ve been snifen to much paint fumes. LOL..
Well I took it out in it’s native setting (My back yard) and took a few random shoots for the no believers.. hahahahahaaa.. Distance was about / anywhere from 12-20’ away.. Not bad for a when the SHTF urban camo IMO..
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5873.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5874.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5876.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5875.jpg
Well guys (team) that concludes yet another one of my how to do it (linkpimp) style threads Hahahaaa
I hope you enjoyed the thread and try it out on your own..
Best of luck to everyone and thank you again for your time team in checking out this thread..
Linkpimp
P.S.
Please feel free to stay tuned for my next few threads as I’ll be posting up the following relatively shortly:
• How I took a perfectly good stock Glock 22c ripped it down and painted it up, but how?? It starts out like a digital camo pattern, BUT then does it get Linkedafeid?, is linkdafied a word? Stay tuned for all of those answers and more that your never thought you would ever be asking yourself.. Hahahahaaaa..
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_4658.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5903.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5911.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5939.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5958.jpg
• How to paint your tactical equipment (Vest, caring cases (Hard and soft shells), etc) to match your firearms this thread will include such key features as (how to prep your tactical equipment / material, what paints to use, setting your psi for rubber, fabric an plastic and how to protect your new finish)
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5872.jpg
Last but certainly not least!..
• The shooting of the ballistic gel Zombie head’s.. (This will be a must see video!)
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/Misc%20photos/IMG_5386.jpg
Have a great day everybody..
Linkpimp
Simply awesome post dude.
Very impressive work, and an amazing tutorial. Thank you very much for taking all the time to put this together: it was certainly no easy feat.
That just goes to prove to me its worth paying someone lol. That is a lot of work!!! I just did a build from parts Sunday and was thinking about doing a paint job. Now I am like yea I need to paint it but man I am not doing it myself!
While it's not my style it is downright cool and VERY well done! Thank you for sharing and thank you for the tutorial....
organdonor
02-02-10, 12:27
kinda cool.
ColdDeadHands
02-02-10, 12:38
dude that's awesome! I wish you'd live in Texas.
xjustintimex
02-02-10, 13:33
dude that's awesome! I wish you'd live in Texas.
haha +1
Waaaayyyy over the top!!!! Very cool!
Neckbreaker
02-02-10, 14:59
Looks cool but in the future you may want to mask your iron sights and keep them black.
Thanks for the write up and awesome job!
Evil Colt 6920
02-02-10, 23:03
Very cool post! Top notch info here
Nice job! Good looking dogs too! Do you have any "jury friendly" patterns?
:eek: If i was your neighbor I would hook you up with any alcohol (bunches of it) you wanted to hook mine up. Very Very nice. Like a previous poster said, I would rather pay someone. Way too many things could go wrong if I attempted lol even with instructions :D
I say sticky this..... well done
Dirty McCurdy
02-03-10, 03:36
I never can get up the balls to paint on of my Ar's I really want to though.
That was great, I've been thinking about getting into durcoat for a while now. Definitely gonna cool up my Taurus PT1911. I'm not really sure if I wanna go the skull killer look though. You know where I can get some Unicorn, or Carebear stenciles? LOL Anyhoo, thanks a lot this should swell my cojones just enough to give this a shot.:D
So, as far as an order list from duracoat, I need:
Degreaser
Colors
hardner
clear coat
1/2 Gal Captain Morgans
2 liter coke
Or should I just order one of the complete kits?
Also I have one of these Campbell Hausfeld HVLP's that I got off ebay several years ago, and never used it. I don't yet have a compressor, so I was curious as if this would work, I don't plan on doing the fine detail that yours has, but I was thinking the paint cup may be way too big as I'm not sure how much paint it takes per application.
http://base1.googlehosted.com/base_media?q=http://www.toolsdirect.com/imagebase/resized/x800/CampbellHausfeldimages/HV2002S.jpg&size=20&dhm=f37122af&hl=en
You can pick up an OILESS compressor at Harbor Freight or Wally world for cheap. The airbrush its self is the expensive part. Still all together you might be looking at $200 max.
As for my air brushing skills, I'm still learning so it would be eons before I tried anything like this.
Simply awesome post dude.
Thank you Sir I’m glad you like it.. A lot of time went into these projects and It’s cool to here people like them too..
That is cool!
Cameron
Thanks Cameron I’m glad you like it..
Very impressive work, and an amazing tutorial. Thank you very much for taking all the time to put this together: it was certainly no easy feat.
Thank you Sir… I’m glad you can appreciate the time and effort that was put forth on this project.. Plus having the balls to show it a team as a newbie is no easy feat either.. Lol…
That just goes to prove to me its worth paying someone lol. That is a lot of work!!! I just did a build from parts Sunday and was thinking about doing a paint job. Now I am like yea I need to paint it but man I am not doing it myself!
Nooo.. Nooo.. dude, dtibbals.. NO.. try it sir it’s really easy and fun (at least for me it is).. But hey you can always pay me to do your next painting project.. Yes I can regular camo too.. Hahahahaaa…
That's badass :cool:
Thanks Man.. I’m glad you like it..
Link.
While it's not my style it is downright cool and VERY well done! Thank you for sharing and thank you for the tutorial....
Thank you sir for stopping by I fully understand It’s not for everyone and defiantly is a acquired taste.. I’m just having some fun and trying something new and thought it would be fun to share the project with my fellow firearm junkies.. I’m glad you like (lets say) some of it.. Hhahahaha..
thanks again..
kinda cool.
That’s ok big guy you don't have like it.. LOL.. NO worries sir.. Thanks for stopping by and checking it out thou..
dude that's awesome! I wish you'd live in Texas.
Thanks Man I’m glad you like it.. I do too.. I’m so tiered of Cali as soon as I can find a job out of state I’m out of here.. Texas is my goal one of these days if I’m lucky enough.. thanks for checking it out..
Waaaayyyy over the top!!!! Very cool!
Thanks Motocuck, I like going way over the top on my projects it’s keep them interesting and educational to.. I find myself doing tons of research, reading and I’m always learning something new..
I’m glad you like it
Link
Looks cool but in the future you may want to mask your iron sights and keep them black.
Thanks for the tip.. I was just going to paint it at the end, my initial thought was the more I mask off the more / greater chances I have of (building up the paint) and or runs off of the masking area’s.. IDK.. Thanks for stopping by NB..
This should be stickied!
Thanks man but I don't think I’m worthy of sticky here.. I’m glad you like it thou.. thanks..
Link
Thanks for the write up and awesome job!
You’re more than welcome sir, thanks for checking it out and even better that you liked it. Cool..
Thanks again
Very cool post! Top notch info here
Thanks for the vote sir.. I’m glad you like it.. Sooo when your are you going to try something like this out and see how it works for you self??
Nice job! Good looking dogs too! Do you have any "jury friendly" patterns?
Hahahahahaaaa.. Thank you sir.. Yes I can anything and have don tons of regular camo jobs.. I just enjoy the zombie thing (it's different) hasant been seen by many others, it new and I love the response I get at the range with it.. 98% all positive with tons of great conversations and meeting other at the same time..
:eek: If i was your neighbor I would hook you up with any alcohol (bunches of it) you wanted to hook mine up. Very Very nice. Like a previous poster said, I would rather pay someone. Way too many things could go wrong if I attempted lol even with instructions :D
I say sticky this..... well done
Thanks you SIR… I’m glad you like it.. It was a fun project but please just remember this (nothing is permanent) it can all be fixed and you would be amazed at how well reducer removes those areas you don't like.. I say give it shoot and paint some paper and see if what happens..
Anyway thanks…. I’m glad you found the post enjoyable..
Link
I never can get up the balls to paint on of my Ar's I really want to though.
That's why I recommended step # 8.. have a drink of too and then reach down grab the boys and go where few have gone before.. LOL..
All thou you might want to just start on paper or old boxes before jumping into the firearm.. IMO.. If you do decide to try it PLEASE feel free to PM me with any and all questions you have I’ll try my best of help..
Best of luck and nothing ventured is nothing gained..
Link..
That was great, I've been thinking about getting into durcoat for a while now. Definitely gonna cool up my Taurus PT1911. I'm not really sure if I wanna go the skull killer look though. You know where I can get some Unicorn, or Carebear stenciles? LOL Anyhoo, thanks a lot this should swell my cojones just enough to give this a shot.:D
So, as far as an order list from duracoat, I need:
Degreaser
Colors
hardner
clear coat
1/2 Gal Captain Morgans
2 liter coke
Or should I just order one of the complete kits?
Also I have one of these Campbell Hausfeld HVLP's that I got off ebay several years ago, and never used it. I don't yet have a compressor, so I was curious as if this would work, I don't plan on doing the fine detail that yours has, but I was thinking the paint cup may be way too big as I'm not sure how much paint it takes per application.
http://base1.googlehosted.com/base_media?q=http://www.toolsdirect.com/imagebase/resized/x800/CampbellHausfeldimages/HV2002S.jpg&size=20&dhm=f37122af&hl=en
Thanks sir I’m glad you like it.. I’ll try my best of answer yo questions..
DuraCoat order:
Yes, color and hardner come together, Matt clear coat, (were is the reducer?) get the 8oz you’ll use this to thin the mix, clean your brush and fix your bo-boos (YES AND YES + ice cubes)
(quick suggestion) If your doing a camo pattern they also have pre cut peel and stick stencils too if you don't want to make them up yourself
DO NOT DO THIS……………
Lets discuss equipment real quick..
I have 2 nice expensive airbrushes that I tyipicaly use but for this project I wanted to prove appoint that a $14-19.00 airbrush will work just fine..
Here is your starter brush.. it’s strong and will last you for about 10 different projects before you’ll need to spend anther $19.00 or move up to the ones that start off at $135.00 but please consider strating with this brush.. http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=95810
The compressor only needs to provide 40 PSI.. no more, you’ll never go higher..
If you looking a cheep (quite) compressor than they are no more than $79.99 here..
http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/Displayitem.taf?itemnumber=93657
So to recap!.. you can buy a great starter airbrush for $19.00 and a compresser for $80 = $100.00 for a new hobby!.. what a deal..
Now lets talk about paint..
Now that you have a your new stuff you’re going to want to practice and practice some more.. Airbrushes use only airbrush paint, so find a store (airbrush store) like this that sell airbrush paint and buy tons of it.. the good no.. GREAT news is Airbrush paint is CHEEP… For your airbrush paint, stencils I strongly suggest you review this site here..
http://www.coastairbrush.com/categorypage.html
If you want to speed up your learning curve and take the next few steps quicker than your average man then check out this site here:
http://airbrushtricks.com/start
Bottom line people is you’re going to need to practice and when I say practice I mean at least 10+ hrs of screwing around before you would want to attempt a firearm..
Please note!.. Anything is possible, if you see a picture on the web that you like, just print it out make two copies, cut out what you want to paint. Affix your stencil to your project, go lightly and spay the outline and start your fill-in process.. Review the other pic that you printed out for detail reference..
Or just pay me!.. LOL.LOL…
nice work. great post.
Thank you sir, I’m glad you like it..
Hey guys thank you all for your time and overwhelming support for this project..
I deeply aploigize for not responding sooner but I was working on other projects..
As a quick follow post to the fist page here are completed pics of projects as promised.
Glock
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/IMG_6027.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/IMG_6030.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/IMG_6028.jpg
Tach vest (still working on it)
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/IMG_6060.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/IMG_6068.jpg
And a fun little quick project I painted a old P-40 stang shark face on my brake.. LOL
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/GrabbedFrame5-1.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/GrabbedFrame6.jpg
In conclusion.. LOL..
I really hope that this thread has helped at least one person give it shot.. Its not that hard guys just start out slow.. I’m teaching my kids how to do it and they love painting things now..
If anyone ever has any questions about an upcoming project please feel free to shot me a PM and I’ll do what I can to help out..
Have a great week everybody and thank you again for your time
Linkpimp.
P.S.
If anyone cares.. I’ve working on some really cool stuff too, once I’m further along I can post pics if you guys want to see them??. No worries if not I fully understand people can only take so much of me at a time.. hahahahahahahaa..
Mike from Texas
02-20-10, 10:08
Not my style but MAD SKILLZ there Bro!
Any special prep on the PMAGS? I am about to duracaot my 7.62 PMAGS to FDE.
Thank you Mike…
P-Mag’s.. lightly sand with 600 gr sandpaper, if your using DuraCoat no primer is needed. Paint (3 light coats) and then seal it.. If your not using DuraCoat matt seal then buy an auto matt seal at pep boys or auto parts store.. The seal coat will help protect the finish and make is really easy to clean too..
Air compressor should be at 38 psi
If you bought reducer run some in the airbrush before the duracoat and run some after to clean out the brush. If you didn’t buy any DuraCoat reducer than use mineral sprits to clean and or fix anything you don't like..
Do not try to thin the duracoat mix with anything but Duracoat reducer
Wait 20 minuets between (light coats)
To help speed up the drying process you can bake your parts @ 110 degrees for 15 minutes to..
Once complete post pics for the team..
Have a great one Sir and best of luck to you on your upcoming project.. New projects are always exciting.. I wish you the greatest success Mike..
Link..
P.S.
I also just finished an ammo can too.. Hahahahah tooooo much fun…
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/IMG_6089.jpg
Work in progress..
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii195/TDC57/IMG_6093.jpg
Mike from Texas
02-20-10, 11:12
I am using Duracoat and I bought the tactical flat dark earth with the self lubricating additive at the recommendation of the fine folks at Lauer Weaponry.
I also bought their airbrush kit with the aerosol can for the propellant, but I can see that is not going to be the way to go. I've done 2 mags and almost used an entire can.
I did not buy any sealer since they recommended using the SL formula, they didn't seem to think I would need it.
So far the color is not a perfect match but it's pretty darn close to the Magpul FDE, it's just slightly darker.
I use an American Turbine full size HVLP gun with a 1.0 tip and a 130z cup (it sprays an oz or two of paint fine in the big cup but it is a gravity feed) for most colors and I also have 3 Sata Mini Jet 4 HVLP guns I use. My air brush is a Iwata HP-CH, plus I have a few Badgers around too. Pretty much anything will work......
I am using Duracoat and I bought the tactical flat dark earth with the self lubricating additive at the recommendation of the fine folks at Lauer Weaponry.
I also bought their airbrush kit with the aerosol can for the propellant, but I can see that is not going to be the way to go. I've done 2 mags and almost used an entire can.
I did not buy any sealer since they recommended using the SL formula, they didn't seem to think I would need it.
So far the color is not a perfect match but it's pretty darn close to the Magpul FDE, it's just slightly darker.
Yeah those aerosol cans are worthless.. (sorry)
Harbor freight has an airbrush that works GREAT for $19.00 http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=95810
Buy some sealer at the auto parts store
(for what it worth)
The smallest quantity of mix for duracoat is:
2 table spoons to ½ teaspoon hardener.
Best of luck mike..
Link.
P.S.
You can also control the sheen the durcoat too MIKE..
The more hardener you use the shinier it gets, the less harder you use the darker or duller the finish gets..
You can also control the sheen the durcoat too MIKE..
The more hardener you use the shinier it gets, the less harder you use the darker or duller the finish gets..
You can also control it by your spray pressure, thickness of the duracoat, how much you reduce it (if at all) and your gun distance from the part your spraying. Thats why its best to paint some toys first and get a feel for it....:D
Linkpimp, that's a very inspiring series of posts! Thanks for taking the time and effort.
When I first saw your work with the skull theme on the "painted rifles" thread, I suspected that it would be pretty effective camo. I'm glad you posted those last few pics showing the result in various outdoor settings.
I've been thinking I want a paint job inspired by the Western Diamondback Rattlesnake (who is "the landlord" where I live). Pretty boring to you, maybe, but could you comment on painting continuous & replicating patterns like snake skin?
Also plenty of folks here have posted nice paint jobs done with rattle-can spray paint. Do you have any thoughts on how to know when Krylon will be good enough, and when it's time to get an airbrush rig?
Linkpimp, that's a very inspiring series of posts! Thanks for taking the time and effort.
When I first saw your work with the skull theme on the "painted rifles" thread, I suspected that it would be pretty effective camo. I'm glad you posted those last few pics showing the result in various outdoor settings.
I've been thinking I want a paint job inspired by the Western Diamondback Rattlesnake (who is "the landlord" where I live). Pretty boring to you, maybe, but could you comment on painting continuous & replicating patterns like snake skin?
Also plenty of folks here have posted nice paint jobs done with rattle-can spray paint. Do you have any thoughts on how to know when Krylon will be good enough, and when it's time to get an airbrush rig?
Hey thanks Sir I'm glad you like it, it was a lot of work and I did it just to help / show others that it’s really not that hard.. Actually I've done some of those paint jobs and the (whole) snake skin affect it really easy to do.. Shot me a PM with your home email and I'll send you the rite up with pics.. (give me week or so to find it thou)
As for the whole (Krylon) thing.. I don't get!.. Why anyone would ever paint a $1000.00 (+) rifle with sprat paint is beyond me.. It will last a few trips, but it’s got a ware off and I would imagine it’s probably really easy to scratch… I’ve never used spray-paint on anything that is firearm related.. BUT hey everyone needs to start somewhere and I’ll never criticize anyone for trying something out side the box.. What ever works I say.. Airbrushing is a (cheep but good affective method) is about $100.00 investment, spray-paint is what $5.00..
Best of luck to on your upcoming project thou.. Please post pics..
Th3Revreant
03-23-11, 22:59
The detail is unreal on some of the closeups you showed. Damn nice job, just saw the glock post not too long ago. :D
LowSpeed_HighDrag
03-23-11, 23:13
Great write up and very cool/original.
Awesome work man, looks great.
Awesome contribution to the community! Thanks.
All that gear and you use a plastic cup to drink yer liquor? :p
I've seen your rifle before but this is the first time seeing the steps you've used. I've done a few DC projects and am by no means great at it and the Ammo Can idea is making me want to go out and paint a bit. I've got a Transformers shirt (yes I'm a fan) with a nice subdued battle image that would look awesome on my 6.8 buttstock. I think I'll have to cut out a template and give it a try on one of my ammo cans or something.
All that gear and you use a plastic cup to drink yer liquor? :p
;) Awesome, and not to mention what he drinks, ;)
Linkpimp: Interesting stuff, great info. I really like your technique for making stencils, and I will be using it in the future. You really let the skulls out of the bag with this one... Not really my thing with the imagery, but pretty cool approach.
Are you able to get tighter, crisper stencils then what I'm seeing in the pics? You get a lot of over and under spray, and I'm wondering if this is because of limitations you have found with DuraCoat?
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