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.
THAT NOZZLE!!!
The product itself is very good. Durable, resistant to anything you are likely to come in contact with. But after shaking for 15 minutes and when using, the nozzle constantly clogged and ran the product all over my hand and forearm, not to mention the floor, while spattering my firearms with small globs of the product! You need to include at least two extra nozzles with each can. Everyone needs to know this product, if spraying multiple coats, will take up to two WEEKS to completely cure out to a rock hard surface. This is the second time I have used it and I may try something different next time.
Very Easy to use. Follow the directions
I have a used AR-15 upper that was modified for 458 SOCOM, It had been painted with a hi-temp flat black paint. I stripped it degreased it and re-anodized it but the dye would not take evenly. I had heard that Aluma-Hyde was a good alternative. I degreased again with acetone and applied it, following the directions. I let it cure for 48 hrs and compared it to a brand new lower and it matched perfectly. So far I am pleased with the outcome. I will update on durability
A shade lighter, dries quick!
So I heated up my parts just enough to warm them up And warmed the cans up as well Had no problem applying the paint with the nozzle it came with I did 1 extremely light coat, followed by 4 medium coats and used a hair drier between coats And finished them off in a 200 degree oven for an hour, turned the oven off and let the parts cool down slowly
Great Product!!
Easy to use, looks great, the only complaint....wish it came in more colors.
Pretty close to magpul FDE
A tad lighter to the naked eye. But all in all pretty good spray paint!
Shake it to death, then shake it more
If you do not shake it enough the paint comes out in spurts. I sprayed an AR-10 upper to make it match my FDE Magpul furniture and it turned out great, I let it cure in the sun all day and then let it sit 24 hours before messing with it, looks awesome.
Really nice finish!
Had a aero fde lower receiver, I used this to paint the upper. It is a durable finish that looks really nice and professional! Prep is key and allowing it to cure. The only downside is the Magpul fde color is a little lighter than the aero Magpul fde color....
Excellent low-cost option
Product was easy to apply, convenient, and cost effective. As stated, be sure to purchase additional spray tips. This product would have a 5 star review if a fan tip was included.
Not exactly O.D
I recently used this color to paint a black plastic A2 butt stock and black mid length hand guards. I prepped the parts with de-natured alcohol and let the parts air dry. My paint booth was an empty card board box. I let the Alumahyde and the parts warm up in my garage to about 80 degrees. I did buy some extra paint nozzles. I then sprayed the stock and hand guards with light even strokes until they were completely covered. Alumahyde dries slower than lacquer based paints so don't expect the paint to get tacky quickly. This means light coats are important so the paint does not run. I then let the parts dry for 3 days and installed them on the rifle. After 3 days the Alumahyde was dry but not fully cured. I did put the parts on the rifle and put the rifle in the safe. After another 3 days I could tell the Alumahyde was really starting to be "cured". After another week the paint is definitely fully cured. This is in an air conditioned basement without any additional heat applied to the parts. (I was in no hurry) The only down side is the paint in a very light O.D. It would be nice if it was just a little darker. As soon as I stopped spraying I pulled the nozzles off and put them in a small bottle of lacquer thinner. I could pull them back out and reuse them without them being plugged up. I'd give this 5 stars if the color was darker.
Works
I really like this grey, i wish it was about 10% lighter for good urban colors. Guys this isnt cerakote this is a do it yourself product. Prep right and it works well.


