Re: Can You Spraypaint Stainless Steel?
Use a self-etch primer under the paint. You can get a decent aerosol etch primer at most auto-parts stores.
The 'beading' is fine and will put some tooth on the barrel for paint to adhere to, but can also leave a very rough finish. And remember, glass bead gets everywhere, so mask the action and block the bore very very well. Duct tape works well for this because the plastic side bounces the bead pretty well and won't rip off.
Even after beading, you will still need some kind of a primer.
Degrease the barrel well. I would use lacquer thinner. Keep at it until the cloth comes back spotless.
There are also some professional metal prep solutions that will etch. But they are very expensive. Your friendly local body shop will have some and maybe they will share. You need just a film-canister full. You don't 'need' this with a good self-etch. But it doesn't hurt. Spray primer in one or two THIN coats.
Then use paint that is compatible with your primer. Krylon makes some good camo paints. But depending on which etch primer you use, you might test a panel first. It's a pain when the new paint lifts the primer the moment you spray it on.
If he doesn't like the result, it will all come off with lacquer thinner in a few minutes.
Hope this helps.
Cheers,
Sirhr
