re-repainting marushin ABS lightweight kit (unassembled)

While there have been some very interesting ideas regarding the refinishing/repainting of the Marushin MP40 ABS Heavyweights, I've been unable to find anything that specifically addresses the rather flimsy Marushin ABS (lightweight) model gun kit (as yet unbuilt).

Though the $350.00 purchase price was reasonable, the overall look is rather disappointing. The total weight (without leather sling and an empty magazine) is slightly over 5 pounds. The metal folding stock and other metal items weigh about 2 pounds and they look very nice. The plastic pouches containing the various smaller parts weigh almost two pounds. The ABS that constitutes the "gun" itself weighs a little more than 1 pound!

To add a bit of heft, I've glued various sized open washers together and plan to permanently install them into the barrel after the paint work is done. I hope to add small metal straps inside the model gun where they can't be seen and don't interfere with the "firing" capabilities of the model gun.

Here's my question- Did all of the German MP40's end up with the gloss black finish? I have a Denix with a gloss black finish. It doesn't do much but; it looks OK. The same gloss black finish on the ABS (lightweight) Marushin MP40 kit parts look awful. Any suggestions regarding a more realistic "look" would be appreciated.

Please keep in mind, that this "lightweight" doesn't give me much to work with. Thanks, Chris

Hi,
As far as i know, all MP40  were gloss/satin black finish.
To add a used look, you can apply the drybrushing technic on it. It works fine with plastics model kits.
Dip lightly a brush in silver paint, wipe it with a rag, or some paper towel, then scrub the brush on edges of your MP40 model. When it's as you like, use a spray varnish (i prefer satin finish) to protect your paint.

My apologizes if it's not clear enough, these days my english is a bit lame.

Regards.

Hello Dronne,

Thank you for taking the time to respond to my query.

Your approach to attaining a more convincing look is less complicated than some of the more involved techniques suggested when attempting to duplicate the right look for the MP40.

I'll give it a try!

Thanks again, Chris