Metalizer paints...are they worth it?

I've used most of them, but for me the absolute best is Alclad. It's extremely durable, easy to use (spray only) and has a pretty good shelf life. I am still using some old Alclad I bottles which must be at least 5yrs old, and it works fine. A note of caution: Alclad is laquer-based, so mist very light first coats if you are spraying over enalel paint. Or use a barrier, I think Floquil makes one. I did a 1/72nd B-36 in it about 5 yrs ago, and it looks as good as the day I finished it, and that's after many dustings and cleanings.. Good luck...practice with it.

I agree with tonyryan. Testors is the most 'finicky', but they have a pretty good range of colors and shades. SNJ is quite good, but Alclad really seems to be rising to the top. I saw a model car the other day that had the wheels done in 'chrome' and I was stunned at how good they looked.

M.

I've used most, if not all, the metal-finish products that have graced the hobby shelves in my modelling career, and I ;have to affirm the other comments on Alclad. It's extremely durable, takes paint ,decalling and masking well, and just won't rub off easily. It does take careful practice to master it, but the end result is very rewarding. - Ed

The buffing metalizers are delicate, the non buffing ones not so much, but if the paint will not be handled, it's ok.They are easy to use, and if you put a clear coat over them, are not as delicate, but a clearcoar does have somewhat of a effect on the realism. It all depends on what you are looking for. I use metalizers exclusively on my car models. They are also much cheaper than Alclad.
Lee

I have to agree with midnightprowler -
The Metalizer range of paints are extremely easy to use, very effective, and have a great range of colors.
They are not for areas where you would expect handling - they tend to be delicate and damaged easy - if you use the sealer, even post-it-notes can pull the sealer off the Metalizer - not good for masking OD anti glare panels on natural metal aircraft.
Having said that, if you put the paunt in a "no traffic area" such as an engine bay, the odd panel here or there on a natural metal a/c, exhausts, and the like, you'll find they give excellent results, some can be polished, and can add great realism by using various shades to highlight details.
I've used them for years, and the only reason (it seems) I'm not telling you that Alclad is a better product, is that I've not yet bought any to use.
You pays yer money and takes yer chance -
Give some a try - just don't put it where you're likely to need to handle the model.
Cheers
LeeTree

I am a big fan of Alclad as well. I use their Gray Primer as well as their metal coats.

I do have some info on Alclad here... including official instructions from Alclad: http://www.naplak.com/modeling/tips/paint_alclad.htm

I have been very pleased with the reslts.

I'll check out the link!

Thanks for all the info guys! As usual, all my questions were answered!!! (what a great forum eh?)

I,and my 1/72nd scale Mig-15 thank you!!!!