You can change the color of a rifle or pistol by painting it in its entirety or individual pieces.It is important that you have thorough knowledge of the gun, as you may need to disassemble and reassemble it to complete the project.Don't paint a fake gun to make it look real, and follow all the rules about gun ownership and operation in your area.
Step 1: If you only want to paint parts, disassemble the gun.
The procedure for removing a gun varies from model to model.Follow the instructions in the manual or watch instructional videos online if you haven't done it before.You should take pictures throughout the process so that you can refer to them when you reassemble the gun.
Step 2: You should sand the parts you want to paint.
The best way to remove paint from the metal is to use a sandblaster.120-grit aluminum oxide blasting media can be used.You can rough up the surface of the existing paint if you can't access a sandblaster.The pieces are prepared so that the new paint will adhere evenly.Rent a sandblaster from your local store.
Step 3: An aerosol degreasing agent can be used to clean metal parts.
You need an aerosol degreasing agent that dries quickly.Gloves, a long-sleeved shirt, and eye protection are required.You should be working in aventilated area.After spraying each metal part with the degreasing agent, wipe it down with a clean, lint-free cloth.The plastic pieces should be cleaned with alcohol and not the aerosol degreasing agent.When handling clean parts, use clean gloves as oils from your fingers will mar the surface and prevent the paint from adhering properly.
Step 4: Plug all holes if you don't want coated areas.
You can use masking tape to cover the parts that you don't want painted, such as thetrigger andtrigger guard.To plug holes in parts like the barrel, use foam ear plugs or modeling clay.
Step 5: Metal paint can be used on guns.
DuraCoat air dries to a set finish.DuraBake needs to be baked to set the finish.Small metal parts can be baked in the oven.If you plan to keep the gun intact or if the parts are too large to fit in the toaster oven, be sure to choose paint that sets while air drying and doesn't need to be baked.
Step 6: Take the parts out of the air.
If you want to access the parts from a certain angle, use wire to hang them.Put a dropcloth over your work area and wear safety gear.
Step 7: The parts should be sprayed with the desired paint.
You can use a paint sprayer powered by compressed air or buy a finishing kit that comes with aerosol spray cans.Hold the can or sprayer 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 cm) away from the surface and spray each part or the whole gun with smooth, back-and-forth motions until all areas are evenly covered.Let the paint dry before applying a second coat.If you want to camouflage the gun, use sponges dipped in paint.
Step 8: Once the paint has dried, remove the tape and clay.
To find out how long it takes to dry, refer to the instructions on the paint.The paint will be dry in 30 minutes to 2 hours.There are modeling clay or foam ear plugs that need to be removed from the holes.
Step 9: If it's necessary, bake metal parts.
This should only be done to parts that have been disassembled from the gun.If the paint requires it, you can bake the metal pieces in a toaster oven.If you want to bake the parts, use wire to suspend them from the top of the oven.To make sure the oven is operating at the correct temperature, use an oven-safe thermometer.
Step 10: If necessary, reassemble the gun.
An exploded-view illustration of the gun can be found in the manual or online, if you haven't done this before.You can watch online instructional videos to help you put the parts back together, or take pictures when you disassemble the gun.