WORKSHOP
probably the most effective method as the
edges blend together well and break up the
silhouette of the gun at a distance.
Masking
If the design is fairly linear, such as a
tiger-stripe pattern, then masking off is the
simplest method.
Take your masking tape and start to lay
it upon the surface leaving the areas you
want to spray uncovered. With each colour
build up the overlaying shapes until you are
happy with the depth of camouflage.
Hand painting
or painting by hand. Some paints may require
a primer coat before you can apply the
coloured layers. Always read the instructions
on the can before rushing ahead to paint your
ATACS pattern.
Base layer
Regardless of the detail of any camouflage
pattern you always begin by applying the
base layer. Look at the camouflage and see
which of the colours is dominant. This is
your base layer, the colour you will cover
the entire piece with.
Spray in a well-ventilated area. If outside,
spraying into wind is not advisable.
Gun metal grey: polished technique
Try not to hold the spray too close to the
surface as that will cause the paint to build
up and may cause it to run. Apply the layers
gradually for a smoother effect.
Freehand camouflage
If your design is not well defined then
you can go right ahead with a spray can,
sponge or airbrush. Once the base layer is
dry you can simply pick up the next colour
in your camouflage range and have fun
applying it at random.
If you are not happy with your first
attempt just re-spray it.
This technique is the easiest and
Tiger stripes: masking technique
For more fluid, complex camouflage (such
as standard DPM), painting with a brush is
sometimes the only way. You can attempt
to do these more abstract patterns with a
spray can or airbrush but you will need to
employ another masking technique with
liquid latex. This can be painted on and,
after spraying, rubbed off to leave the base
layer unaffected.
Polished metal
Okay, this is taking a metal section of the gun
and removing any paint or powder coating.
To do this you need to either sand away the
paint layer or use paint stripper.
Please remember, if using paint