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How to Paint a Scope

You can paint your scope to look like new by applying a gun finish to its surface with an airbrush. There are a variety of colors to choose from. When painting your scope, you have creative license to do with it whatever you choose. You can repaint it in its original color, go with a different color altogether or combine colors to apply a camouflage pattern. For best results use a combination of paint and hardener solution. If you choose not to invest in, or rent, an airbrush, disposable aerosol-powered airbrushes are available.

Things You'll Need

Gun paint/finish
Hardener
Stripper
600 grit sandpaper
Airbrush
Masking tape
Fish line
Razor blade
Rubbing alcohol

Instructions

- 1
  Apply masking tape to the lenses and cut away any excess tape with a razor blade.
- 2
  Use your 600 grit sandpaper to lightly sand down any scratches, dings or blemishes on the surface of your scope.
- 3
  Clean off the surface of the scope with a stripper solution to remove any debris.
- 4
  Tape a fishing line to the taped surface of the lens and hang the scope in midair. The scope should be hanging in such a way that you have full access to the entire surface.
- 5
  Use your syringe to mix the proper ratio of paint and hardener solution in your airbrush container. The proper ratio is approximately 10 to 14 parts paint to 1 part hardener.
- 6
  Use your airbrush to evenly apply a coat of paint to the surface of your scope. Leave the scope suspended for a minimum of 12 hours to allow the paint to dry.
- 7
  Take down your scope and remove the tape from the lenses. Clean off the adhesive with rubbing alcohol. Your scope is now ready to be used; however, the paint takes at least 30 days to cure; during that time try to prevent anything from contacting the surface of the scope.

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