best paint for white metal

I've used plain old Tamiya acrylics directly on bare metal in the past without any issues, but the easiest thing perhaps is to hit it with an inexpensive automotive primer and then you should be free to use any sort of paint once that's dry.

I use duplicolor sandable automotive primer for pretty much everything.  It shoots a very fine mist, sticks to bare metal (of all types), resin, and plastic, and comes in a few different colors.  Plus, it's sandable (hence the name!)

$4.99 at most auto parts stores.  I used to paint alot of Warhammer 40k figurines.  Mostly white metal, stuff works like a dream.  If practical, make sure to wash your metal before priming or painting.  Next to resin, pewter and other white metals uses the most persistent mold release chemicals.

Good luck!

Chris

I agree with the other posts.  The key to metal painting is the primer. Once you have a good primer on, it makes no difference what material the part is.