You can watch the video version EasyB Tactical YouTube Channel:
Looking to give your tactical shotgun a personalized, modern edge without an expensive professional coating? A simple DIY spray paint job can completely transform the look of your firearm. This guide outlines the quick process used on a Mossberg 500, focusing on preparation, painting, and achieving a custom aesthetic.
Project Overview: The Mossberg 500 Makeover
The goal of this project was to modify a Mossberg 500 CMB (the "Zombie Edition" in this case) with a simple, quick, and durable paint application.
-
Target: All metal components of the shotgun.
-
Plastic Components: Left unpainted.
-
Initial Paint Choice: Brownells Aluma-Hyde II in Gray. (Note: A color switch was necessary, detailed below).
-
Key Approach: Simple masking and two light coats for a custom finish.
Step 1: Essential Disassembly and Preparation
Proper preparation is vital to ensure the paint adheres correctly and crucial internal components remain untouched.
Disassembly and Masking [00:23
-
Disassemble the shotgun, separating all parts you intend to paint from those you do not.
-
Mask the Receiver: This is the most critical step. To prevent paint from getting inside the receiver, use makeshift materials like sponge or foam padding (such as the padding found in Red Dot sight boxes) and shove it inside the opening.
-
Apply Tape: Place a piece of painter's tape over the foam/sponge to act as a final seal, significantly reducing the chance of internal overspray [
01:08 -
Thread Protection: Use small pieces of tape to protect any threads on bolts or other components to ensure smooth reassembly later [
01:31 -
Clean the Metal: Before any paint application, wipe all metal parts down with a rag to remove any oil, grease, or dirt. This ensures proper paint adhesion and longevity [
02:33
⚠️ A Note on the Safety Switch
The safety switch was removed for painting. Be aware that unscrewing the safety switch on a Mossberg 500 releases a small ball/plunger underneath, which may fall into the receiver. Ensure you account for this piece during reassembly [
Step 2: Choosing and Applying the Finish
While the original intent was to use Brownells Aluma-Hyde II, a common issue was encountered that required a pivot in paint choice.
Switching Paint: The Nozzle Problem [02:54
-
The Issue: The Brownells Aluma-Hyde II spray cans frequently experience the nozzle gunking up after a single use, even if stored properly. Attempts to clear the nozzle with boiling hot water or needles were unsuccessful [
03:11 -
The Solution: The project pivoted to a readily available silver spray paint (in this case, an old paint can originally intended for brake calipers) to complete the job, proving that a quality, personalized finish can still be achieved with creative material substitution [
04:27
Applying the Coats [04:27
-
First Coat: Apply a light, loose coat across all metal surfaces.
-
Curing Time: Wait approximately 10 to 12 minutes between coats. Allow more time if painting in cold temperatures (as the original process required) [
04:36 -
Second Coat: Apply a thorough second coat to ensure even coverage and color depth.
-
Final Drying: Let the parts dry for at least 20 minutes to an hour before beginning the reassembly process [
05:22
Step 3: Reassembly and Final Product
Once the paint is dry to the touch, you can begin removing the masking materials and reassembling your firearm.
-
Careful Removal: Gently remove the tape and internal foam from the receiver and other parts, taking care not to chip the fresh paint.
-
Reassembly Check: Pay close attention to small parts, such as the plunger for the safety switch, during reassembly [
05:48 -
The Result: The Mossberg 500 now has a custom, monochromatic silver/gray finish, providing a distinct, modern look desired for a quality tactical shotgun [
06:05
For a detailed walkthrough of the final shotgun setup, including a full talk-through of the components and why this affordable tactical setup was chosen, be sure to subscribe to the EasyB Tactical YouTube Channel.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IyE9uBqzdIc