which grey is "gunship grey"

Hi Nophster 

"Gunship Gray" is FS (Federal Standard) 36118 (Model Master enamel 1723 / acrylic 4752) This is currently the "overall" colour for the F-15E. The "3" prefix on the FS number indicates that it's a flat colour ("2" is semi-gloss, "1" is full gloss - eg. FS 16118 is exactly the same colour except in a full gloss finish)

I would suggest using a dark metallic grey for your engines, not "Engine Gray", FS 36076 - This is an "exterior" colour, not, as the name suggests, a colour for the engines.

Thanks again.

Two more questions: most landing gear is painted white. Which shade of MM white would be the best? And which primer should be used, both in plastic landing gear and metal ones?

As for the "metal" finish of some parts, is "aluminum" better or "steel"? Which specific brand?

Hi Nophster,

Generally, I'm not too fussed about "whites" If it's for landing gear bays/legs/door interiors, any white will do. If you intend to weather/wash to highlight details, the wsah will impart a slight tint to it which will take the edge off the "starkness" of the white. Sorry, I can't help much with suggestions for primers because I don't usually use a primer.

Choice of metallics depends on what sort of look you wish to achieve. "Aluminum" tends toward a flat light metallic grey, where "steel" is usually a (gloss) deeper grey with a strong metallic lustre. "Iron" or "gunmetal" is usually a dark, near black metallic.