Creating A Weathered Look For Your Painted Ar-15

Painting your AR-15 rifle is a great way to give it a unique and personalised look. It is a simple, creative, and inexpensive way to customise your firearm, and it can be done at home with the right tools and preparation. There are many ways to achieve a weathered look, from the paint you choose to the application method. Using stencils, foliage, and sponges can create a natural, worn appearance, while the right spray paint can provide a rugged, textured finish. With the right approach, you can transform your AR-15 into a one-of-a-kind piece that reflects your personality and tastes.

Using stencils to create patterns

Prepare the base:

Start by applying a base coat of paint to your rifle. Choose a light colour like white or tan, which will serve as the foundation for your pattern. Make sure the coat is even and let it dry completely before moving on to the next step.

Apply the stencils:

Once the base coat is dry, it's time to apply your stencils. You can purchase pre-made stencils specifically designed for AR-15 rifles, or you can create your own custom stencils. The MultiCam Shape Stencil Pack from Freedom Stencils is a popular option that can help you achieve a MultiCam pattern.

When applying the stencils, follow the pattern you desire. For a MultiCam Arid pattern, the highest layer will typically be the light-coloured base. Apply stencils with medium-sized splotches that point downward at a 45-degree angle. This layer doesn't need to be uniform and can be applied in clusters.

Spray the darkest coat:

After the stencils are in place, it's time to spray the darkest coat of paint. This will help preserve the light-coloured pattern underneath while allowing you to begin building up the other colours. Spray the entire gun, avoiding any buildup or overspray.

Add more stencils:

Now, it's time to add more stencils for the next layer of colour. Use medium-sized stencils similar to the ones used for the light-coloured layer, but make some adjustments. For a MultiCam Arid pattern, the dark brown layer typically occupies more space on the gun. Add more stencils, leaving some areas void while making others more compact. Incorporate small, splotchy circles and overlay some of the dark brown stencils onto the previous layer's stencils.

Final touches:

Once you've applied the stencils for the dark coat, it's time to spray on the additional colours. Use a quick sweeping motion, and remember that less is more to avoid buildup. You can use local foliage, like leaves and stems, as natural stencils to create an organic pattern. Continue building up the colours and patterns until you're happy with the result.

Finally, carefully remove all the stencils to reveal your unique masterpiece!

Experimenting is part of the fun, so don't be afraid to try out different colours, patterns, and techniques until you achieve the weathered look you desire.

Choosing the right paint

Composition of the Paint and the Gun

It is essential to understand the composition of both the paint and the gun you want to paint. The term "paint" is often used loosely, and many finishes are sprayed on that are not technically paint. For example, Cerakote is a spray-on finish containing ceramic particles that coat the surface in a thin, protective layer that can also hold pigments for dynamic colour options.

Heat Resistance

Heat will be the primary threat to your spray paint finish. Look for paints designed for engine blocks or barbecue grills, as they will be marked as "high temperature." If the paint can withstand the heat of a grill, it will withstand the heat of live fire. Krylon, Rust-Oleum, and Dupli-Color Engine Enamel are popular options for high-temperature paint.

Surface Compatibility

Ensure the paint you choose is compatible with the surface of your AR-15. For example, Duracoat bonds well with metal, wood, and polymer, making it a versatile option. Additionally, consider the existing finish on your AR-15, as some paints may not adhere well to certain finishes, such as rust or anodized aluminium.

Colour and Design Options

Choose a paint that offers the colour and design options you desire. Krylon, for instance, offers a wide range of colours, including metallic gold and camouflage. Consider whether you want a solid colour or a more complex design, such as camouflage, and select a paint that aligns with your vision.

Drying and Curing Time

Consider the drying and curing time of the paint you choose. Some paints, like Krylon, dry in less than 30 minutes, while others, like Brownells – Aluma-Hyde, dry in minutes but take about a week to fully cure. The curing time will impact how soon you can use your AR-15 after painting.

Ease of Application

Finally, consider your level of experience and the ease of application of the paint. Duracoat, for example, is a straightforward process similar to traditional paint application and is an excellent option for inexperienced users. It does not require disassembling your AR-15, and you can apply it with a traditional spray can or an air gun.

Preparing the rifle

Firstly, ensure that your AR-15 rifle is thoroughly cleaned and free of any dirt, grime, or old paint. Use a brake cleaner or degreaser to remove any oil or grease buildup. It is crucial to work in a well-ventilated area or outdoors to minimise the inhalation of spray paint chemicals. Always wear a mask to cover your nose and mouth during the painting process.

Next, cover any openings or parts of the rifle that you do not want to be painted. This includes the magwell, muzzle devices, optics, trigger, and any other sensitive components. Use tape or suitable coverings to protect these areas. It is also recommended to suspend the rifle using a cord attached to a taped-up part, making it easier to paint and ensuring you don't accidentally coat certain areas.

Before applying the base coat, it is essential to choose the right type of paint. For a weathered look, you might want to consider a paint that can withstand high temperatures, such as those designed for engine blocks or barbecue grills. These paints are typically marked as "high temperature" and will be able to withstand the heat generated during live fire. Krylon, Rust-Oleum, and Dupli-Color Engine Enamel are popular options that offer a wide range of colours and temperature tolerances.

Once you have selected the appropriate paint, it is time to apply the base coat. Start by choosing a well-ventilated workspace and suspending the rifle for easy access to all surfaces. Begin spraying or painting the rifle with smooth, quick, and sweeping motions. Avoid spending too much time in one area to prevent an uneven finish or build-up. Allow the base coat to dry thoroughly before moving on to the next step.

If you plan to use stencils to create a camouflage pattern, now is the time to apply them. Stencils can be made from painter's tape, laundry bags, or even cut-out shapes from sponges. Place the stencils on the rifle in your desired pattern, ensuring they are secure and won't shift during the painting process.

With the stencils in place, you can now apply the second coat of paint in a different colour. Continue the spraying or painting motion, ensuring the can or brush keeps moving to avoid excessive build-up. Allow this coat to dry before removing the stencils and evaluating the result. Repeat the stencilling and painting process as needed until you achieve the desired weathered look. Remember, when it comes to camouflage, sharp contrasts should be avoided, and natural colours and patterns tend to work best.

Applying the paint

When it comes to applying the paint to your AR-15, there are several options to consider. Firstly, it is important to note that spray paint is one of the most convenient and cost-effective ways to customise your firearm. However, not all spray paints are suitable for this purpose. Choose a spray paint designed for high temperatures, as it will be more durable. Look for paints suitable for engine blocks or barbecue grills, as they are often marked as "high temperature". Krylon, Rust-Oleum, and Brownells' Aluma-Hyda are some popular options. Krylon's Ultimate Camo paint is a good choice for its cost, availability, and quick-drying properties.

Before applying the paint, ensure you have thoroughly cleaned and degreased your rifle. Cover any openings or parts that you do not want to be painted, such as the magwell and muzzle devices. Find a safe, well-ventilated area to work in, as spray paint contains chemicals that should not be inhaled. Consider wearing a mask to minimise inhalation.

When you are ready to paint, start with your base coat and work in a deliberate and thorough manner. Be careful not to spend too much time in one area to avoid an uneven finish. If you are using stencils, apply them before painting and add a second coat of paint in a different colour. You can repeat this process until you achieve the desired result. Remember to keep the can moving while spraying to prevent too much paint build-up.

An alternative method to spray painting is sponging or dabbing. This technique creates a built-in pattern due to the natural texture of the sponge. Simply spray your chosen colour onto a paper plate, dab the sponge into the paint, and then apply it to the gun. Ensure that you use a fresh sponge and plate for each colour, and allow sufficient drying time between coats.

If you are looking for a simple and easy coating process, consider using Duracoat. It bonds well to metal, wood, and polymer, and you don't need to disassemble your AR-15 before application. Duracoat can be applied using traditional spray paint or with a liquid kit and an air gun.

For a more advanced option, you can explore Cerakote, which offers exceptional durability and heat resistance. The Cerakote H Series and Elite Series provide different curing methods and temperature tolerances to suit your needs.

Adding additional coats

When adding additional coats of paint to your AR-15, there are a few key things to keep in mind to achieve the desired weathered look. Here are some detailed instructions to guide you through the process:

Firstly, it is essential to work with a clean surface. Make sure to remove any dirt, grime, or old paint from the rifle before applying a new coat. This step ensures that the new paint adheres well and produces a smooth and long-lasting finish. Use a suitable cleaning agent, such as brake cleaner, to degrease and prepare the surface.

Next, consider the type of paint you will be using. Different types of paint have varying properties and requirements. For example, if you are using a spray paint like Krylon, which is a popular choice for AR-15s, ensure that you are working in a well-ventilated area or outdoors to minimise the inhalation of paint fumes. Spray paints like Krylon are convenient and dry relatively quickly, making them ideal for adding multiple coats.

When applying the additional coats, use a consistent and uniform spraying motion to avoid uneven finishes. Take your time and try not to spend too much time spraying one specific area, as this can result in an uneven coat or paint build-up. Move the can steadily and avoid too much overlap to maintain a consistent finish.

If you are using stencils or tape to create patterns or designs, ensure that they are securely in place before applying the next coat of paint. Stencils can add unique patterns and give your AR-15 a custom look. You can use various materials as stencils, such as painter's tape, laundry bags, or even natural foliage to create different effects.

Additionally, consider the colour choices for your additional coats. For a camouflage effect, start with a light colour and add sharp contrasts by using darker colours. The more coats and colours you use, the more you can blend and deaden the contrasts, helping your rifle to blend into its surroundings.

Finally, allow sufficient drying time between coats. This is crucial for the paint to adhere properly and achieve a durable finish. Depending on the type of paint you use, the drying and curing times may vary, so always refer to the manufacturer's instructions.

By following these steps and adding additional coats of paint, you can create a unique and weathered look for your AR-15 that reflects your personality and tastes.

Frequently asked questions