Ethan Clarke
Painting a plastic gun is a great way to change its colour or give it a more realistic look. Before painting, it's important to have a thorough knowledge of the gun and to clean it thoroughly. The gun may need to be disassembled to reach all the parts that need to be painted. Once the gun is clean, it's important to sand the parts to be painted to ensure the new paint will adhere evenly. A variety of paints and techniques can be used to paint plastic guns, including spray paint, bake-on ceramic coatings, and rattle canning.
How to paint plastic guns
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Preparation | Clean the gun thoroughly, removing any existing paint or coating. |
| Rough up the surface with sandpaper or a sandblaster for better paint adhesion. | |
| Clean metal parts with an aerosol degreasing agent and plastic pieces with isopropyl alcohol. | |
| Tape off areas that do not need to be painted. | |
| Paint | Use a primer, such as black sandable primer or Krylon "Fusion" primer. |
| Spray paint is a popular choice, with options like Fusion Plastic spray paints, DuraBake, Krylon, and Cerakote. | |
| For a blued look, consider using powdered graphite or mixing blue pigment with clearcoat. | |
| Paint the gun with smooth, back-and-forth motions, ensuring even coverage. | |
| Consider using a finishing kit with aerosol spray cans or a paint sprayer powered by compressed air. | |
| Some paints require baking to set, while others air dry. | |
| Safety | Work in a well-ventilated area and wear protective gear, including gloves, safety glasses, and a respirator. |
| Familiarize yourself with the gun and its assembly to ensure proper disassembly and reassembly. | |
| Take pictures during disassembly for reference when reassembling the gun. | |
| Technique | Consider using a fishnet or a magazine page to create a unique pattern or camouflage effect. |
| Paint individual pieces or the entire gun, depending on your preference. |
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What You'll Learn
How to prep plastic guns for painting
Painting your gun can give it a rugged look, and a good paint job can increase its value. It can also add a layer of protection against the elements and help prevent rust.
Firstly, if you've decided to paint only part of the gun, disassemble the unit. Take photographs throughout the process, as this will make reassembly much easier.
Next, sand the components you wish to paint. Be careful not to be too vigorous, as your aim is not to remove the existing surface but to create a texture so that the new coating adheres well. You can use a sandblaster or sandpaper for this step. If using sandpaper, opt for fine-grit paper, which will scratch the surface without weakening or damaging the plastic. Pay particular attention to any shiny parts, as the paint will have a harder time sticking to a slick, glossy surface.
Then, clean the metal parts with a degreasing agent and a lint-free cloth. It is important to use gloves and protective clothing during this step. Do not use a degreasing agent on plastic pieces, as it will corrode them. Instead, use isopropyl alcohol to clean plastic components.
Before painting, make sure to choose a paint that is suitable for plastic. Hold the paint canister 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 cm) away from the surface and spray in thin, even layers. Allow each layer to dry completely before adding another.
Finally, remember to work in a well-ventilated area and consider wearing a respirator and safety glasses for protection.
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Recommended paints for plastic guns
Painting a plastic gun requires some preparation, but the right paint will ensure a professional-looking finish.
One of the most highly recommended paints for plastic guns is DuraCoat Ultimate Do It Yourself Firearms Finish. This paint scores highly on flexibility, durability, and ease of use. It can be applied to bare metal, wood, and plastic, and it offers a semi-gloss, matte black, professional-looking finish. It is highly durable and provides protection against rust and corrosion.
Another recommended paint is Aluma-Hyde, which has a hard-curing epoxy base and high-density, extra pigment for a durable covering. It will adhere to plastics, steel, aluminum, and alloy surfaces, and it is also an excellent option for synthetic stocks. It will resist all solvent elements and other harmful chemicals.
Fusion Plastic spray paints are also a good option for plastic guns. They are scratch-resistant and easy to clean. They can be used on plastic stocks, receiver/barrels/bolts/scopes, and aluminum parts.
For a simple black coating, Krylon-Black is a good option. It can be applied to plastics, wood, glass, PVC, vinyl, and wicker, and it gives a matte black ultra-flat paint job.
For a more unique finish, Carom Shot makes a variety of sprays, including blues, chromes, and blacks, specifically for airsoft and model guns made of ABS.
For a glowing finish, Gun Glow 0.31-ounce paint is a good option. It adheres to plastic and smooth metal gun sights and is easy to apply thanks to its dropper tip applicator.
Finally, for a classic, timeless look, the aged bronze full-aerosol kit can be used on plastic, wood, and different types of metal. It comes with a 6oz degreaser and a scrubbing pad to help prepare your gun for coating.
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Painting techniques for plastic guns
Painting a plastic gun requires a few steps to ensure the paint adheres properly and that the gun is reassembled correctly. Firstly, it is important to have a thorough knowledge of the gun and how to disassemble and reassemble it. Take pictures throughout the process to refer to when reassembling the gun.
The next step is to clean the gun. Use cleaning patches, a Scotch Brite sponge, or brake cleaner to wipe down every surface you plan to paint. You can also use 91% isopropyl alcohol to clean the plastic pieces. This step ensures that the new paint will be evenly distributed over the surface.
Once the gun is clean, you may need to sand the parts you want to paint. Sanding helps to remove any existing paint or coating and creates a rough surface for the new paint to adhere to. Use a sandblaster or sandpaper to rough up the surface. After sanding, it is important to clean the gun again to remove any residue.
Now, you are ready to paint the gun. Choose a paint that is suitable for plastic, such as Krylon Fusion, Cerakote, or a spray paint designed for plastic, like Fusion Plastic spray paint or Plasti Dip spray. You can also use a finishing kit with aerosol spray cans or a paint sprayer powered by compressed air. Hold the can or sprayer 6 to 8 inches away from the surface and spray with smooth, back-and-forth motions until all areas are evenly covered.
If you want to create a camo pattern, you can use a fishnet to cover the gun before painting. Repeat this process with different colours to create a rugged pattern.
Finally, allow the paint to dry completely before reassembling the gun. Refer to the pictures you took earlier to ensure that all the parts are put back together correctly.
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How to create paint effects on plastic guns
Painting a plastic gun is a great way to change its colour or create a more realistic, rugged look. Here are some detailed steps on how to create paint effects on plastic guns:
Preparation:
Firstly, ensure you have thorough knowledge of the gun and its assembly. Take pictures of the gun from various angles to refer to when reassembling it. Then, disassemble the gun by removing the parts you want to paint. Wrap the parts you don't want to paint with magazine pages or tape them off. Clean the parts you plan to paint with 91% isopropyl alcohol or a degreasing agent to ensure the paint adheres evenly. You can use a Scotch Brite sponge or cleaning patches for this step.
Sanding:
Before painting, it's essential to sand the plastic surface to create a rough texture. Use sandpaper or a sandblaster to roughen the surface. If you use sandpaper, opt for fine-grit sandpaper and sand the parts gently. This process prepares the plastic for better paint adhesion.
Paint Selection:
Choose a paint suitable for plastic surfaces. Some recommended options include Krylon Fusion, Cerakote, DuraBake, Alumahyde, and enamel spray paint. Consider the desired colour and finish, such as matte or glossy. If you want a durable finish, consider a bake-on ceramic coating like Cerakote, which requires baking in an oven. For a more affordable option, rattle canning (spray paint) is a fun and cheap way to change the look of your gun.
Painting:
Suspend the gun parts or the entire gun in the air using wire or a coat hanger. This allows you to access all sides easily. Wear protective gear, including a respirator, safety glasses, and gloves. Lay a plastic drop cloth under your work area to catch any paint overspray. Hold the spray can or paint sprayer 6-8 inches away from the surface and spray with smooth, back-and-forth motions until all areas are evenly coated. Allow the paint to dry completely before reassembling the gun.
Additional Effects:
To create a worn or weathered look, you can use techniques like steel wool to rub off the paint in specific areas. For a blued-steel effect, try mixing a small amount of blue pigment or food colouring into a clear coat. You can also experiment with different colours and patterns, such as camouflage, by repeating the painting process with multiple colours and using a fishnet over the gun before spraying.
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How to reassemble a plastic gun after painting
When reassembling a plastic gun after painting, it is important to be cautious and take your time. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
Refer to your photos and manual:
Before you begin reassembling, refer to the photos you took during the disassembly process. These photos will serve as a guide to help you put the parts back together correctly. If you have access to an exploded-view illustration of the gun, either in the manual or online, it can be extremely helpful. Additionally, online instructional videos can provide valuable insights into reassembling your specific gun model.
Ensure all parts are completely dry:
Before starting the reassembly, make sure that all the painted parts are completely dry. Give the paint ample time to cure and harden. If you attempt to reassemble the gun with wet paint, you risk smudging or damaging the finish.
Prepare your workspace:
Select a suitable workspace that is well-ventilated but with low wind conditions. Cover your work area with a plastic drop cloth or other protective materials, such as paper or cardboard, to contain any mess. Ensure you have all the necessary tools, such as screwdrivers, close at hand.
Start reassembling:
Begin the reassembly process by carefully screwing the parts back together. Take your time and work methodically, referring to your photos and manual as needed. Be cautious when handling springs or pieces under tension, as they can escape at high speed once the gun is opened. If your gun has complex parts or textures, take extra care to align and fit the pieces correctly.
Test the gun's functionality:
Once you have completed the reassembly, carefully inspect the gun to ensure all parts are securely in place. Test the gun's functionality by performing a dry fire (without ammunition) to ensure that the trigger, slide, and other moving parts operate smoothly.
Apply a clear coat (optional):
If desired, apply a clear coat spray to give your paint job a longer life, especially on areas prone to wear, such as handles and triggers. Follow the instructions on the can for the application process, and allow the clear coat to dry thoroughly before handling the gun extensively.
By following these steps, you can successfully reassemble your plastic gun after painting and achieve a professional-looking finish. Remember to take your time, refer to guides and manuals, and prioritize your safety throughout the process.
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Frequently asked questions
First, clean the gun thoroughly with 91% isopropyl alcohol. Then, disassemble the gun and sand the parts you want to paint with sandpaper or a sandblaster. Next, use a spray paint designed for plastic, such as Krylon Fusion, Plasti Dip, or Cerakote. Hold the can or sprayer 6 to 8 inches away from the surface and spray with smooth, back-and-forth motions until all areas are evenly covered. Allow the paint to dry completely before reassembling the gun.
There are several types of paint that can be used on plastic guns, including spray paints such as Krylon Fusion, Plasti Dip, and Cerakote. Cerakote is a more expensive option but is known for its durability. If you're looking for a more affordable option, rattle can spray paint (also known as aerosol spray paint) can be purchased for as little as $6 per can.
To achieve a blued steel look, you can try using a product like Carom Shot, which offers sprays specifically for airsoft and model guns made of ABS. Alternatively, you can try using a black base coat and then steel wooling the black off to reveal a silver undercoat. You can also mix blue pigment with a clear coat to create a blued steel effect.
It is recommended to disassemble the gun before painting to ensure that all parts are thoroughly coated and that the paint is evenly distributed. However, if you do not want to take apart many parts, you can wrap certain components in magazine pages or use wire to hang the gun and spray it from all angles.
To make a plastic gun look more realistic, you can consider painting over the orange tip commonly found on toy guns. You can also try techniques such as hydro-dipping or custom work to alter the appearance of the gun. Additionally, weathering techniques can be used to give the gun a more worn and realistic look.
