The Alclad II paint system is widely regarded as one of the most realistic and versatile lacquer-based solutions for scale modeling. Known for its ultra-fine metallic pigments and professional airbrush performance, Alclad II is commonly used on aircraft, automotive, armor, sci-fi, and scale rail models where realism matters.
Unlike traditional hobby paints, Alclad II works best as a complete system. Each step — from surface preparation to final clear coat — plays a critical role in the final appearance. Understanding how the system fits together is the key to consistent, high-quality results.
What is Alclad II?
Alclad II is a lacquer-based airbrush paint system designed to replicate realistic metal surfaces and specialty finishes. Its extremely fine pigment allows it to preserve surface detail while producing finishes that range from subtle aluminum tones to mirror-like chrome effects.
The system includes primers, metallic finishes, transparent and candy colors, heat-stained effects, specialty coatings, and clear coats — all formulated to work together.
Browse the complete Alclad II paint lineup to see how each category fits into the system.
The foundation: primers and surface preparation
Proper surface preparation is essential when using Alclad II. Primers create a smooth, uniform base that improves adhesion and ensures metallic finishes perform as intended. Surface flaws that may be hidden under opaque paint will show through metallic finishes if not addressed early.
Alclad II primers are specifically formulated to support metallic and High Shine finishes, making them a critical first step in the process.
Metallic finishes: High Shine vs Regular Finishes
High Shine metallics
High Shine paints are designed for maximum reflectivity, producing chrome, polished aluminum, and mirror-finish effects. These finishes require a perfectly smooth base and careful application, but the results are unmatched when realism and visual impact are the goal.
Explore Alclad II High Shine finishes
Regular Finishes
Regular Finishes focus on realistic aluminum and metal tones rather than extreme reflectivity. They are ideal for natural metal aircraft skins, industrial surfaces, armor components, and scale rail equipment where subtle variation and realism are preferred.
Browse Alclad II Regular Finishes
Transparent, candy, and specialty effects
Transparent colors
Transparent paints allow light to pass through the color layer, making them ideal for tinting metallics, adding shading, and creating tonal variation without hiding surface detail.
Shop Alclad II Transparent colors
Candy colors
Candy colors are transparent paints intended to be layered over metallic bases. This technique creates deep, rich color with natural highlights and depth, commonly used in automotive and custom builds.
Hot Metal and specialty finishes
Hot Metal paints replicate the heat-stained discoloration seen on exhausts and high-temperature components. Prismatic and Holomatic finishes provide color-shifting and holographic effects for custom and sci-fi projects.
Hot Metal finishes | Prismatic & Holomatic effects
Sealing and protecting with clear coats
Clear coats are used to protect finished surfaces, seal decals, and control final sheen. Alclad II Clear Coats, often referred to as Aqua-Klears, are available in gloss, satin, semi-matte, and flat finishes.
Accessories and workflow support
Using proper tools and accessories helps ensure consistent results. Alclad II accessories support airbrush performance, surface prep, and cleanup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need primer for Alclad II?
Yes. Primers improve adhesion and surface quality, which is especially important for metallic and High Shine finishes.
What is the difference between High Shine and Regular Finishes?
High Shine finishes produce mirror-like chrome effects, while Regular Finishes focus on realistic aluminum and metal tones.
Can Alclad II be clear coated?
Yes, but not all finishes require it. Clear coats are typically used for decal sealing or sheen control.
Why did my chrome lose its shine?
Chrome finishes can dull if applied too heavily, sprayed over an uneven base, or clear coated incorrectly.
What is the difference between Candy and Transparent colors?
Candy colors are designed for layered depth over metallic bases, while Transparent colors are used for tinting and shading.