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.
Customer Photos & Videos
Great match on My FDE Magpul furniture
After thoroughly testing Aluma-Hyde II in Magpul Flat Dark Earth (FDE), I can confidently say this is one of the best firearm coatings on the market—especially for those looking for chemical resistance and a color match that blends seamlessly with factory Magpul parts.
**Color Match & Application:**
I applied two coats of Magpul FDE over properly prepped aluminum and synthetic surfaces, following the manufacturer’s heat treatment directions (light bake in a 150F oven for 1–2 hours). The color match after curing was excellent—virtually identical to Magpul’s factory FDE. Under natural lighting and indoors, the tone is consistent and matte, with no odd shifts in hue or gloss. For anyone doing a build with Magpul furniture, this paint will blend in beautifully.
**Surface Prep & Spray Quality:**
Aluma-Hyde II does require careful prep for best results. I degreased, scuffed lightly with a Scotch-Brite pad, and thoroughly cleaned the surface beforehand. The Clean Out Nozzle system worked well—definitely use it before each application. It helped ensure a clean, clog-free spray and a fine, even coat with no sputtering or clumps. I let the first coat flash for about 30 minutes before applying the second.
**Durability & Resistance:**
The main selling point of Aluma-Hyde II is its solvent resistance, and it delivers. After a full week of curing, I exposed the finish to several aggressive bore solvents—including those that normally soften or stain other finishes. No damage, no clouding, no peeling. This makes it ideal for high-maintenance platforms like AR-15s where frequent cleaning is part of the routine. The epoxy base provides a hard, chip-resistant finish that adheres tightly to both metal and synthetic components.
Curing Time & Heat Treatment:
While it does dry to the touch in minutes, don’t rush it. Full cure really does take 5–7 days. The optional low-temp heat treatment helps speed the process and enhances hardness. After the heat cure and a few days of rest, the coating felt dry, solid, and resistant to fingernail scratches or edge wear.
**Final Verdict:**
If you’re doing a home gun coating project and want a factory-quality FDE that matches Magpul parts, Aluma-Hyde II is hard to beat. It takes a little patience with prep and curing, but the end result is a tough, chemical-resistant finish that looks great and lasts. Highly recommended for DIY gunsmiths and serious shooters alike.
Would you recommend this?
Yes, I would recommend to a friend
Great Product
The key to this paint working out well for you is to shake it really well (45 min.), spray close and DO NOT put on too much paint (DO NOT GET IN A HURRY)... If you rush it, the paint will run... I rushed it and had to sand it down and use OO Steel wool & Acetone... After I repainted it, it came out GREAT !!!... I definitely recommend this paint !!!...
Would you recommend this?
Yes, I would recommend to a friend
Work's great.
Works great and looks great as long as you follow the directions. Just painted one with Wolf Gray and parkerizing Gray.
Would you recommend this?
Yes, I would recommend to a friend
Looking forward to it
I still haven’t received the product. You can do better than this with the shipping.
A different use
I used this to repaint my 30 year old 6x10 utility trailer. It took 4 cans of dark gray to give it a stealthy missed look. Along with a new set of tires and rims, my wife even liked how it came out. The Aluma-Hyde II should be much more durable than regular rattle can paint.
Great Paint
Color match awesome… texture awesome… really happy.
Rusted 870
Like many my 870 was constantly plagued with rust. After years of meticulous maintenance and oiling it did not seem to matter. Finally bought a can of the Magpul fde and boy is it sharp. Super easy to spray, made sure to shake like crazy for 7-8 minutes. I highly recommend it to anyone wanting a flashy paint job or a rust preventer.
Would you recommend this?
Yes, I would recommend to a friend
Aluma-Hyde paint
Love this paint. Just follow the directions. Shake the heck out of it and it works great. I painted 2 of my rifles and a holster. I used earth brown and parkerizing dark.
Would you recommend this?
Yes, I would recommend to a friend
Excellent as always
Great product as always. Applied well and finished perfectly. Oven "speed cure" was very nice. Thanks, Brownells!
Aluma-Hyde II Matt black finish for my aluminum lower receiver
Easy to use. Done a exelant job on my aluminum receiver it looks outstanding.
I highly recommend this product and i will definitely buy again.
Would you recommend this?
Yes, I would recommend to a friend

