Micro-Mark Gunmetal Paint, 20ml

• Our line of metallic paints are formulated with fine mica, which provides a natural shine and reflectivity, simulating the appearance of real metal
• Subtle shine gives a realistic finish to modern and vintage metal parts
• Provides natural shine simulating the appearance of real metal
• Great for military, fantasy, sci-fi, and industrial terrain projects
• Made in the USA

Description
Gunmetal is a deep, cool-toned metallic shade designed to mimic the look of steel firearms, armored vehicles, and worn mechanical parts. Its balance of dark tone and reflective surface makes it a favorite for basecoating weapons or shading steel elements. Use with drybrushing or black washes to emphasize texture, wear, and age.

Our Gunmetal acrylic paint is in several sets including:

Item #91183 Metallic Acrylic Paint Super Value Package

29444 US Army Armor/Infantry WW1-Vietnam Acrylic Paint Set, 9pc

29475 US Armed Forces Desert WW2-Modern Acrylic Paint Set, 9pc

29503 US Military Acrylic Paint Set, 81pc

29443 Basic Acrylic Painting Set with Brushes, Mediums, & Empty Bottles, 89-piece set

29367 Fantasy Color Acrylic Paint Set

Modeling Use Cases

• Military Dioramas: Rifle barrels, tank treads, and ammo canisters
• Fantasy Miniatures: Swords, helmets, gauntlets, and golems
• Sci-Fi Builds: Cybernetic limbs, ship hulls, and control panels
• Urban Terrain: Manhole covers, piping, fencework, and machinery
• Steampunk Kits: Pistons, gears, goggles, and retro-futuristic props

The term “gunmetal” originally referred to a material, not just a color. Here's a breakdown of its origin, evolution, and adoption as a color name:

1. Origin as a Material during 18th–19th Century

• Gunmetal was first used in the 1700s–1800s to describe a type of bronze alloy (88% copper, 10% tin, 2% zinc) used to cast cannons, guns, and naval artillery.
• It was favored for its strength, corrosion resistance, and machinability.
• The alloy had a distinct dark gray or bluish-gray luster, which gave rise to its color association.

2. Transition to a Color Term in the Late 19th Century

• By the late 1800s, the term “gunmetal” began to be used in fashion and industry to describe any dark, metallic gray finish that resembled aged or polished steel or bronze.
• Oxford English Dictionary records the color use of "gunmetal" dating back to 1892, referring to fabric and polished finishes.

3. Why the Color Became Popular

• Symbolism: Gunmetal evoked strength, durability, and industrial utility, making it a powerful aesthetic choice for tools, vehicles, and uniforms.
• Aesthetics: The bluish-silver gray became popular in:
• Firearms and military hardware
• Watches and automotive interiors
• Fashion accessories and electronics
• Modeling & Paints: Gunmetal paint became a staple for miniature wargaming, modeling, and dioramas to simulate weapons, armor, and aged metalwork.

Modern Usage- Today, "gunmetal" refers to a color category that blends:

• Dark gray
• Bluish or steely hues
• Metallic shimmer

It’s commonly seen in everything from paint finishes and modeling supplies to car rims, phones, and luxury pens.