ALUMA-HYDE® II Reviews & Ratings
Reviews Summary
Aluma-Hyde® II garners mixed feedback, with many users appreciating its cost-effectiveness and ease of application, while others encounter issues with nozzle clogging and inconsistent color matching, particularly with the FDE variants. Durability after curing is generally praised, though some users report chipping and flaking over time. Overall, users recommend proper prep and caution for the best results.
What Reviewers Are Saying
Application Process
70%
Many reviewers emphasize the importance of following the application instructions precisely, including thorough cleaning and allowing adequate cure time. Users highlight that successful application often requires shaking the can extensively and avoiding excessive heat when curing.
Durability
65%
The durability of Aluma-Hyde® II is frequently mentioned, with many users noting it holds up well under regular use. However, some express disappointment when experiencing chipping or wear, especially in high-friction areas.
Color Match
60%
Color consistency is a significant concern. Several users report discrepancies between the color on the cap and the actual paint, particularly with variants like Coyote and FDE. Aluma-Hyde II is described as closer to Sage or light tan rather than the expected hues.
Nozzle and Clogging Issues
55%
Numerous reviews highlight issues with the spray nozzles clogging shortly after use, leading to spattering or inconsistent application. Users recommend purchasing extra nozzles as a precaution.
Value for Money
75%
Despite the mixed feedback, many users find Aluma-Hyde® II to be a cost-effective alternative to professional coatings like Cerakote. The majority feel that it delivers adequate performance for the price, especially for DIY projects.
Rich brown
This is alittle darker than OEM Magpul FDE but it compliments it well. Highly recommend this product and color unless you want something lighter Ps the nozzle is complete trash, invest in a replacement nozzle pack you will thank me later.
TAKE YOUR TIME
You want to let this stuff dry without touching it (AT ALL) for at least a week. It will feel hard enough after about 2 days, but just leave it. The stuff is really durable if you take your time.
Good stuff
Be sure to shake it extremely well and spray it for a little bit before you apply to your project to make sure the paint is actually flowing bearded phrase on just like spray paint and seems to be extremely thick and durable. I totally stripped my rifle first and did a ton of work with gun scrubber and acetone and had no problems whatsoever with getting it to adhere to the different materials on the rifle
Good stuff
Be sure to shake it extremely well and spray it for a little bit before you apply to your project to make sure the paint is actually flowing bearded phrase on just like spray paint and seems to be extremely thick and durable. I totally stripped my rifle first and did a ton of work with gun scrubber and acetone and had no problems whatsoever with getting it to adhere to the different materials on the rifle
Good stuff
Be sure to shake it extremely well and spray it for a little bit before you apply to your project to make sure the paint is actually flowing bearded phrase on just like spray paint and seems to be extremely thick and durable. I totally stripped my rifle first and did a ton of work with gun scrubber and acetone and had no problems whatsoever with getting it to adhere to the different materials on the rifle.
Curing effects color
I wanted something darker than FDE for my receivers and free float hand guard so I ordered the Matte Earth Brown. In the reviews there's a mention of high temperature curing affecting color. I tested this with sockets and this is what happened. First try with a socket I air cured for about 1 day and then oven cured close to what directions say, about 190-195 degrees for about 3-4 hours and ended up with a color very close to Magpul FDE, closer than the Aluma Hyde Magpul FDE. On the second try with a socket I preheated the oven to 425, let it air cure for about 1 hour, put it directly in the hot oven for 20-25 minutes and then turned it down to 200 and let it bake another 3-4 hours. The color from this was a darker shade of FDE. This is when I decided to paint receivers and metal hand guards. After I finished the third coat of Aluma Hyde I let it dry for about 10-15 minutes while I preheated the oven to 450. Baked them at 450 for 30 minutes, turned it down to 400 for another 30 minutes, and then turned it down to 200 for 4 hours. With this method I ended up with a deeper brown color that does not resemble Magpul FDE, more like the SB Tactical / Aero FDE shades, or even the new Pmags in coyote. Side note, maybe it's the heat but the last method came out with a slight gloss. Two things to consider: #1 there are glossy things in nature and #2, a really light rubbing with very fine steel wool once it's cured will dull the shine and create a matte effect.
Perfect For Yeti Mugs
I sprayed my Yeti 10 Oz Lowball and 20 Oz Rambler (both stainless steel color) with the Magpul FDE. 3 coats each and then they sat in the sun (110 temp) for 3 days. Came out perfect!! Been using them every day for past 2 months. Finish is holding up well. Highly recommended.
Great color to paint firearms.
I purchased this to make an old beater Winchester 1300 Defender that had some rust a pitting. It was a pawn shop special. I refinished the barrel and part if the shell tube. It turned out nice and does have a sheen to it. Very happy with the end results. It does look grayish, but with a sparkle. Looks great and outstanding product. I shook the can for over 5 minutes and followed the directions on the can, and cleaned the nozzle in between sprays with a cotton cloth with acetone. Very easy to use. Just make sure your surfaces are prepped and clean. Despite many criticisms regarding use of this product it is quite easy to do.
Great product
Great product , sprayed on easy , put on three coats and never had to change the spray nozzle (as long as you clear it after each use), would definitely recommend.
Good Rifle Finish IF Follow Directions!
I'm using Aluma-Hyde to paint an AR and got 6 or 7 cans of various colors. Colors are great, coverage is very good and finish is durable (so far). Difficulties with use: You really have to have a thought out plan before the first spray, otherwise your results may not be so good. Pay attention to the can's instructions. Be absolutely sure to give it 10 to 14 days to cure (if not using heat to cure). Get a package of extra spray nozzles, you'll thank me for this suggestion. Or keep the nozzles in some sort of thinner in between use of the spray cans. They WILL clog up. When you think you have shook it enough, shake it for another 2 to 3 minutes; you get better color this way.


