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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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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.

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!