Opinions on coloring AR parts

[JeffD]

I just picked up another lower and want to do some sort of tan or camo finish. I was wondering what finishes work the best? I looked at AlumaHyde and Duracoat so far. Both seem to be spray epoxy. Will the finish last? I would like to do this myself but would it be better to get some sort of professional finish done? Let me know what you have tried and how you like it.

Thanks,
Jeff

[Shawski]

I sprayed duracoat on one of mine, pretty easy to do. Seems to be holding up well. Making sure the metal is clean is the important part.

[Hmac]

I think Cerakote is more durable than Duracoat. I've had Duracoat done locally and sent stuff off to be Cerakoted...I prefer the latter finish. I used Alternative Firearms Coating and have been pleased. http://www.acoating.com/

[Countryfried Frank]

I'm aldo interested in Dura Coat. What should I look for in an airbrush?

[FJ540]

Hmac, did you let the duracote cure fully before using it?

Ryan won't let the parts out of the cure tank for 3 full weeks when he does it.

[Hmac]

Hmac, did you let the duracote cure fully before using it?

Ryan won't let the parts out of the cure tank for 3 full weeks when he does it.

I don't remember the details...it's been awhile, but I know it was less than three weeks. Probably closer to a week. I don't know exactly what curing process the guy used.

My experience is limited and may not be reflective of the merits of Duracoat vs Cerakote. I only know that the total Cerakote experience met my overall expectations better than my Duracoat experience.

[rugersol]

I'm aldo interested in Dura Coat. What should I look for in an airbrush?

IIRC, this is the one I used ... http://www.amazon.com/Paasche-H-SET-Single-Action-Airbrush/dp/B004O7HTYU/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1349878648&sr=8-1

I duracoated my AR pistol ... I think the finish wears a LOT better than the phosphate!

I'd hafta double-check the deflector ... but other than that, I'd say it's as nice as the day I applied it!

[Shawski]

I used my Iwata Eclipse airbrush and Iwata air compressor. Total overkill but you can use something a lot cheaper to spray Duracoat.

[Consummate]

I do a bit of both duracoat and cerakote. My preference varies on the item to be coated, and how soon it needs to be done.

[HeadHunter]

Ive had things painted in both, multiple guns....cerakote is tough as nails and gets my vote every time....Make sure its a color you like though cause once its on there....well you get the idea....

[Cadet]

Ive done multiple Duracoat jobs and I simply bought and use http://www.harborfreight.com/air-tools/ ... 95630.html
It works great!

[JeffD]

I have a friend that owns a body shop. He suggested an epoxy paint and sealer. Anyone tried this? I would imagine it is similar to the other products. As for the time frame I don't have all the parts yet so I'm not in a rush. Just looking for options. Thanks for all the tips!