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ALUMA-HYDE® II Reviews & Ratings

ALUMA-HYDE II

The special feature of Aluma-Hyde II (and the reason for its development) is its increased resistance to bore cleaners, solvents and other cleaning chemicals, even trichloroethylene. Today’s family of fast, aggressive bore cleaners really do a terrific job getting dirty gun bores sparkling clean, but they can wreak particular havoc with any other finish they contact. After full cure, Aluma-Hyde II proved solvent-proof to all but the most aggressive, copper-removing bore solvents. Aluma-Hyde II is formulated with a hard-curing epoxy base that contains additional, high-density pigment for a durable finish that sticks to all properly prepared aluminum and alloy surfaces, steel and plastics - it’s great on synthetic stocks. Aluma-Hyde II is available in a variety of colors to help the gunsmith match the vast number of applications found in the average gunshop. Aluma-Hyde II dries to the touch in only minutes and reaches full cure in about a week. Absolutely no primer coat is required for a tough, durable, abrasion-resistant, rustproof finish that blends beautifully and compliments all gun finishing applications.

Each can of Aluma-Hyde II is now supplied with a Clean Out Nozzle, required to be used before each use of the paint to prevent clogs in the Nozzle and Pickup Tube. Aluma-Hyde Clean Out Nozzles allow nearly unrestricted pressure to flow through the pickup tube and nozzle to clear out any semi-hardened paint that may be in the pickup tube. Once clear, replace with the original spray nozzle and start your project. When used correctly, this will ensure a smooth, sputter free paint application free of clumps or inconsistencies.

Additional Clean Out Nozzles can be purchased as singles, 430107431, or in a 12-pack, 084179004. Clean Out Nozzles are not intended for finish spraying.

SPECS: 12 oz. (340 g) aerosol can.

INSTRUCTIONS:

PREP THE SURFACE: NO priming required on clean, bare metal or anodized surfaces. Surface should be dry and free of oil, wax, dirt, loose paint, and any other contaminants. Painted surfaces should be washed with a cleaner degreaser. If cleaning parts with abrasive blasting, make sure blasting media is oil- and silicone-free. Test a small area for color compatibility and adhesion.

• Unpainted aluminum: Abrasive blast to achieve desired surface look/texture.

• Unpainted steel: Remove rust by sanding or abrasive blasting.

• Fiberglass: Sand lightly, then wash with soap and water or clean with a quality cleaner degreaser.

• Wood: Seal or fill surface. ALUMA-HYDE II can be applied over polyurethane and varnish finishes but not over linseed oil or tung oil finishes.

PREP CAN: For best results, use between 70° F and 90° F (not below 65° F). Shake can vigorously until the ball inside rattle; then shake for 2 minutes more to achieve correct color and texture.

INITIAL CLEARING SPRAY: Before spraying work surface, point can in safe direction and depress valve. Press until spray is consistent in color and consistency. The cleanout nozzle can be used in this step for previously used, or even new cans. The cleanout nozzle is used to ensure any residue or buildup is easily ejected from the can. Simply pull the standard nozzle upwards off the can and press the cleanout nozzle down in its place (be careful to point can in safe direction when pressing downwards, as can may discharge spray).

Cleanout Nozzles are included with each can of Aluma-Hyde purchased from Brownells and is available separately. Search item number 430107431.

SPRAY IT ON: Hold can approximately 12” away from the work surface and fully depress valve on top to start the spray. Shake can periodically during application process.

LET IT CURE: This is a critical step in getting a truly tough, long-lasting finish! If a second coat is needed, it should be applied within 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, Aluma-Hyde II must be allowed to cure 10-14 days before recoating.

• Dries to a light touch in approximately 10-15 minutes. Wait 24 hours or more before extensive handling.

• Complete cure time caries depending on film thickness, temperature, and humidity

• Cure time can be reduced by circulating warm air (90°F max.) or placing part in direct sunlight.

• Aluma-Hyde II can be “speed cured” by baking the part for 3.5 hours at 195°F. Allow part to cool before applying another coat.

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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.

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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.

Nice tan, not pink like cap.

Cap of can makes you think it might be pink, but its a nice shade of tan. I like it better than Magpul FDE color.

Gives old rifle new life

I had bought an old Browning A-bolt long ago and camo painted it with Krylon paints . The finish was coming off so I decided to strip it and redo it. I didn't want to spend $200+ to cerakote it as this was my lightweight woods rifle I usually took deep in the woods and used with my climber. I decided on the Aluma-Hyde 2, cleaned and prepped the surface and sprayed with non-chlorinated brake cleaner and wiped down. The paint went on super easy and actually covered in one coat, although I applied 2 coats 15 minutes apart. Rifle is still hanging in curing stage as of now.

Excellent Product

I painted an older Remington 870, that I use for turkey hunting. I tried a vinyl wrap product but wasn't happy with it. This product gave me great coverage, it lays down smooth with an even color and is very easy to apply. Make sure your gun is oil free and spray in a dust free environment. I'm very happy with the outcome.

A pretty good match for NiB coatings

I used this to spray some parts (plastic and metal) to approximate the finish on the NiB parts kit from WD Guns. It gave me a matte color which was closer than previously applied Rustoleum Metallic Satin Nickel, which wasn't flat enough. Follow the instructions if applying multiple coats and allow it to set before using the device. I have also used the Magpul FDE shade. The Aluma Hyde II sets into a durable finish. It can be removed, depending on the surface it was applied to. In my case I sprayed a mount, then wanted to remove it. Turpentine soak, followed by scrubbing with a brass brush works to remove it. It may take a couple cycles depending on the amount of coating, etc.

Look great

This stuff is awesome, Ive used it in the past and its such a durable coating when you give it the time it needs to dry. On color matching terms this magpul fde is a couple shades lighter than the magpul furniture, its still a pretty close match though. All I sprayed in the picture was my stock so it does match closely.