Looking for Scalecoat Keystone Black?
If you've been searching for Scalecoat Keystone Black, you've probably discovered that finding a bottle today is nearly impossible. Longtime model railroaders still remember Keystone Black as one of the classic colors in the original Scalecoat lineup, and it's still frequently discussed on forums and in older modeling articles.
The good news is that while the original catalog number has been retired, the color itself has not been lost.
What Happened to Keystone Black?
Keystone Black was one of the original Scalecoat paint colors and developed a loyal following among model railroaders. As the Scalecoat product line expanded over the years, another color called Detail Black was added to the catalog.
Rather than maintaining two separate stock numbers for paints using the same color formula, Keystone Black was eventually discontinued to simplify the product line.
The color itself was not eliminated.
Today's Scalecoat Detail Black uses the same proven color formula that originally made Keystone Black a favorite among hobbyists.
The Modern Replacement for Keystone Black
If you're restoring an older model, following vintage painting instructions, or simply trying to replace an old bottle of Keystone Black, these are the products you're looking for:
- Scalecoat I Detail Black (SMZ1112) – Designed for brass, white metal, die-cast models, and other metal surfaces.
- Scalecoat II Detail Black (SMZ2112) – Formulated specifically for styrene, plastics, resin kits, and most modern rolling stock and locomotive shells.
Which Version Should I Buy?
Both products use the same color formula.
The difference is the paint system:
- Scalecoat I is intended primarily for metal models and typically requires baking for maximum durability.
- Scalecoat II is formulated for plastics and resin, providing excellent adhesion without damaging plastic models.
If you're painting plastic locomotives or freight cars, Scalecoat II is typically the correct choice. If you're painting brass locomotives or other metal models, Scalecoat I is recommended.
Why Model Railroaders Still Search for Keystone Black
Many older books, magazine articles, instruction sheets, and online discussions still reference Keystone Black by its original name. That has led many hobbyists to believe the color is no longer available.
Fortunately, that's not the case.
The original Keystone Black formula continues today as Scalecoat Detail Black, allowing modelers to achieve the same trusted finish without searching auction sites or hoping to find decades-old bottles of discontinued paint.
Order Scalecoat Detail Black Today
Fusion Scale Hobbies is proud to carry the complete Scalecoat paint line, including both versions of Detail Black.
Want the Complete History?
Fusion Scale Hobbies is an authorized Scalecoat retailer, but if you're interested in the complete history behind Keystone Black, including why it was discontinued and how it evolved into today's Detail Black, visit the official Scalecoat blog.