Getting a little bored with the overall looks of my black molded stock/stainless steel Huntsman, I decided that it was time for a “makeover” or “facelift”. A little color.
Managing a paint department, I decided that for less than a $20.00 investment, it was time for a little experimenting (company didn’t buy the paint, but, oh well). I purchased aerosol cans of Valspar plastic primer, a “stone look texture” hunter green and finally a satin finish clear coat. They also offer the stone like texture paint in a dark shade of gray, light tan and I believe a taupe color in our store, any of which would look pretty decent in my opinion.
I prepped the stock and forearm first by brush scrubbing with dishwasher soap and VERY hot water followed by two wipe downs of paint thinner/mineral spirits to remove any residual manufacturing residue and oil. Each piece then got two applications of the three aerosols with about 48 hours of dry time in between coats. The stone texture paint does require a clear topcoat to protect it from the elements. All three aerosols are considered interior/exterior grade finishes.
The following pictures are the result of my efforts and I really like the looks when combined with the stainless. The texture also gives me something very easy to hang on to.
Now....let's see how it holds up!
I might add that I had to "clean up" a couple areas where the forearm pivots against the receiver and I was a little surprised with the finish. Doesn't really harden like you would think an enamel would harden. Remained somewhat...not soft but "grippy". Was rather difficult to remove with my
very sharp pocket knife. The completed finish REALLY adheres! It appears as though the finish should flex as the stock/forearm flexes.
