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.
Nagpur FDE
Would have gave it a five star but the color is not magpul FDE. First pick is magpul FDE second picture I Aluma hyde 2 Fde
Not FDE
The two cans I got where more gray then tan or brown does not match Magpul FDE other then that it's a good product.
Not really stainless steel color
The paint is good the color is misleading doesn't stay glossy shiney like real stainless steel turns more of a flat gray or battleship gray when dries. I bought a pt-99 parts kit to shoot 9mm out of my pt-100 pistol. The slide and barrel were blued but the finish had basically worn completely off my pt-100 is a stainless steel frame so my thinking was this paint would match up with my frame. Using the paint was fairly easy it is summer and out doors it been 90s from 11am on. My prep was cleaning the slide with hoppy's # 9 a quick hit with polishing compound removing and left over contaminates and wiping down with nail polish remover and then just spraying on the paint. Opted to cook the paint in the oven. The finish looked good before baking will update if things go wrong. Only thing I would do differently would be use the semi gloss black and give my gun a two tone look.
Good product
Goes on thick. I wanted to put on several coats but that was a mistake. It sprays on thick. I had to strip it off and do it over because it was two thick and I had some defects. Second time turned out perfect. Follow the instructions. I baked it at 195 degrees fro 3.5 hours and it came out perfect.
Take your time and it will look great.
Absolutely take your time, prep work is a must. Air dry in good weather and don't handle for a least a week. It is very soft until cured and will take scratches or dings if not careful. Best results using a home built painting rack and hanging parts, the oven bake speed cure method did NOT give good results. It coats thick and flashes fast so be sure and mask or plug any low tolerance contact points or it will cause a lot of resistance on parts. You have to clean the nozzle out after use or it will be useless the next time you need it. Overall this is a really good product but is not for beginners or someone looking for a fast project. (I used this for a custom 1911 build.)
Good product
It covers well and is simple to apply, the only fault I can see is the color is more of an OD green than a gray, very subtle though and not a big issue.
Far cry better than plain rattle can
I am on my third can of this paint. It has painted around 8 evil rifles so far with almost a full can left. I put two solid coats of paint of Aluma Hyde on and then rattle can can any camouflage after a full cure period. When you paint you need to leave parts alone for several days usually for me a solid week. My only complaint so far would be the the nozzle clogs occasionally. Would be nice if Brownells would include a spare but be warned you might want to buy some spares before you complete check out.
Good but not quite magpul fde
Nice beautiful finish. Lighter in color than magpul fde. It does darken as it cures but not to same color as magpul. Takes full 10-14 days to cure per instructions. Do not rush it. It is very run resistant, even with heavy coats. Spray nozzle not the greatest but the epoxy is forgiving enough that it is not a problem.
Needs a better nozzle (actuator )
I have 25 plus years in industrial coatings, have used every type of aerosol and coating delivery device imaginable. This seems to be an excellent coating , the nozzle stinks. GOOD : Easy to apply , great wet coverage, very easy to work BAD: The actuator spits , causing runs and drips. I switched out the nozzle for one from another brand of paint. Much better results. Now time will tell if it holds up.
Refinishing an old 22lr rifle.
I was repairing an old 22lr rifle that the owner didn't want to spend a lot on. I had to line the barrel and both the receiver and barrel needed a refinish and the owner was just going to paint it but I know that some gun cleaners with ruin a paint finish so i said I'd use my Aluma-Hyde II Semigloss. It turned out fine and the owner was pleased with it.


