Hey y'all... wanted to drop something for everyone to consider.
I normally use Tamiya AS-12 bare metal for... well, bare metal parts. Engine blocks & transmissions, anything that is unpainted metal.
A while back, i came across something different at a hobby shop. It's Tamiya PS-48. The name is a mouthful - semi gloss silver anodized aluminum. I picked it up on a whim and started using it more recently. While the AS-12 gives a good finish and looks good, the PS-48 looks better. I can't describe it beyond it just looks "used", like the metal has gone through heat cycles.
If you have a LHS that stocks Tamiya PS paints i would highly recommend giving it a try. I undercoat it in black... i know that since it's made to go on clear polycarbonate/lexan plastic that seems kinda odd, but trust me...
If anyone tries it, please report back. Or give an opinion if you already use it and this is old news to you.
After Christmas I plan on restocking some stuff. I'll add it to my list.
Thanks Dave
You have to use good good primer, correct? I've read that Tamiya PS paints will craze styrene.
Tom
Quote from: Tom Birky on November 22, 2025, 12:23:02 PMYou have to use good good primer, correct? I've read that Tamiya PS paints will craze styrene.
Tom
Tom
I've used those PS paints a few times now with Tamiya primer and had no issues.
Quote from: Tom Birky on November 22, 2025, 12:23:02 PMYou have to use good good primer, correct? I've read that Tamiya PS paints will craze styrene.
Tom
When i use this particular paint i undercoat/prime in flat black.
Then again, i undercoat all my metallics with flat black.