DuraCoat

[swampthang]

I just finished putting together an AR 15 And decided I wanted to finish it my own way. I decided on DuraCoat .A finish that I got from Lauer Custom Weaponry , Chippea Falls WI.
I decided on the AM-Stripe EZ kit. The kit consists of Paint (this particular kit contained Matte Black and Tiger Stripe Green), hardener,reducer, peel and stick templates,Tru-Strip,Air Brush and hoses with aerosol propellant,and instructional DVD. I did not however use the air brush as I did purchase a mini HVLP paint sprayer.
I have no artistic ability and it is also my first time using a spray gun , I was happy with the results.
The key to a good finish is to completely degrease the entire weapon for good adhesion of the Dura Coat,
The Kit
http://i50.photobucket.com/albums/f310/swampthang45/DuraCoat/Kit.jpg

Before pic of AR
http://i50.photobucket.com/albums/f310/swampthang45/DuraCoat/BeforeII.jpg
Stripped and degreased
http://i50.photobucket.com/albums/f310/swampthang45/DuraCoat/PrepI.jpg
Taped
http://i50.photobucket.com/albums/f310/swampthang45/DuraCoat/PrepII.jpg

After base Coat
http://i50.photobucket.com/albums/f310/swampthang45/DuraCoat/BaseCoat.jpg

Here are the peel and stick templates being applied prior to 2nd coat of Tiger Stripe Green Paint on the lower receiver
http://i50.photobucket.com/albums/f310/swampthang45/DuraCoat/Stencil.jpg

http://i50.photobucket.com/albums/f310/swampthang45/DuraCoat/StencilI.jpg

http://i50.photobucket.com/albums/f310/swampthang45/DuraCoat/StencilII.jpg

Lower receiver After 2nd coat before removing templates
http://i50.photobucket.com/albums/f310/swampthang45/DuraCoat/2ndCoatI.jpg

Templates removed
http://i50.photobucket.com/albums/f310/swampthang45/DuraCoat/2ndCoatII.jpg

Same procedure with the upper receiver
http://i50.photobucket.com/albums/f310/swampthang45/DuraCoat/Upper2ndI.jpg

http://i50.photobucket.com/albums/f310/swampthang45/DuraCoat/Upper2ndII.jpg

http://i50.photobucket.com/albums/f310/swampthang45/DuraCoat/Upper2ndIII.jpg

Here is the finished product, I did learn a few tricks along the way, that will make my next finishing job easier. All in all I think it came out pretty good, I just need the weather to cooperate so I can give it a coat of clear. Total time about 6 hours over 2 days.
http://i50.photobucket.com/albums/f310/swampthang45/DuraCoat/FinishII.jpg
http://i50.photobucket.com/albums/f310/swampthang45/DuraCoat/FinishIII.jpg
http://i50.photobucket.com/albums/f310/swampthang45/DuraCoat/FinishIV.jpg
http://i50.photobucket.com/albums/f310/swampthang45/DuraCoat/FinishV.jpg

[luvshooting45]

nice paint job now i no who to send mine to lol hope you do custom orders jkjk nice job,,,,,

[Ranger375]

Very nice job! Was there any part of the process that you would offer caution on?

[swampthang]

Very nice job! Was there any part of the process that you would offer caution on?

The prep is very important to make sure you have stripped every bit of oil and grease off the weapon for proper bonding to take place. Also , not being a painter by trade , I had to remind myself to make even passes with the spray gun. I picked up a few tricks as I went,but anyone that has any dexterity and patience should get good results! I have an Instructional DVD that I will send to whoever would like to see the application, PM me with address and Ill get it out.

[Hunter]

Very nice job on the AR Mike.
You also did a great job on the write up and pictures.

[OD*]

Excellent Job, Mike!

[Blackhawk]

good job that is a nice looking AR.