Yes I realize this sounds odd, but it is serious question. What would be the best to get a bright (blaze) orange color on the handles of a starter pistol?
Since this is an unusual question, I’d like to give some backround. We use starter pistols to train retrievers for field work. The starter pistol simulates the gunfire of hunting. Occasionally the pistol gets lost because it blends into the weeds and is forgotten because it no one sees it when they carry back the gear. Making it more visible would help keep it from becoming lost.
Since it is commonly in someone’s hand, a durable clear finish is a must. If I use a non-opaque stain, getting a bright orange color may be difficult, and I don’t know if it is possible. As least with this style of stain, I familiar with applying a durable clear finish.
I’d use an opaque stain, but I don’t know if an opaque stain in orange can be finished with a durable clear finish.
Any suggestions?
Michael
Replies
I think what you want is paint. Stain is for bare wood and is generally translucent so the color would be muted by the color of the wood? plastic? or metal? Paint in such a color should be available in rattle cans. Make sure the handle is clean first--wash with TSP and then with naphtha. Any dirt or oils left on the handle will prevent good bonding. The surface needs to be thorougly scuff sanded to help with adhesion.
I agree, something opaque like paint would be most visible, and easiest. Then what kind of durable clear coat?
I can get the paint anywhere, but finding out what to apply on top is a concern. Also being able to recoat the clear coat as it become scratched.
Michael
Clear coat won't add to the durability of the finish. A good paint is as tough as a good clear coat. It is needed over stain because the binder that holds the pigment to the surface is relatively weak, not so with paint.
Steve has given you paint as the answer. I also think there is a rubberized "day-glo" kind of paint that you could dip the handle in--it's used for garden handles so you won't step on the rake and plonk yourself. Durable definitely.
This forum post is now archived. Commenting has been disabled