As I have always used Vallejo model air for my main base coats I want to do a chipped paint effect on a Dak Panzer II and the Vallejo is not quite the right paint for the job as it tends to go a bit rubbery when removing the paint.

I want to know if Migs ammo paint has the same formula as Vallejo?
Or should I go back to Tamiya as I know I had good results last time out.

Thanks in advance
karl

Both Mig AMMO and AK acrylics are quite different from Vallejo. They airbrush better than Vallejo and work well for the hairspray chipping technique. Vallejo still works better for hand-brushing, but the vinyl polymer means that it tends to peel off when chipping.

FYI, both Mig and AK acrylics are similar to each other (due to the company history). The newer yellow-cap Ammo acrylics are very nice and have a better formula than their older comrades. However, both of the paint brands need a lot of shaking to mix them up (which is nice that AMMO paints now have steel ball agitators).

Also, you might give Life Color a try. You'd be able to get them in the UK much easier than I can in the states. LC paints airbrush beautifully and chip easily (a bit easier than Tamiya IMO). Plus you have a great color range.

Here's a link to a page on my website where I talk about my findings with various acrylic paints: http://www.rebelscale.com/techniques/acrylic-paint/

Hope this all helps.

With any paint, one of the biggest hurtles is the application; amounts, pressure, environment,tools not to mention the mediums used for attempting to simulate the chipping.

In terms of Vallejo, the "rubbery" effect comes from applications that are a bit too heavy. Thinly applied coats built up work best. Also, the amount of chipping medium can greatly effect any paint and how it comes off during the process. Less chipping medium or hairspray results are a more control smaller chipping...more chipping medium will remove more paint. Model Air IS designed to use in the Airbrush, Model Color is not, even though it can be thinned and used in some instances.

AMMO will work just fine as well for the chipping process. Again, thinly applied coats built up to the desired look. With any acrylics, you may not want to apply a full coat all in one shot (heavy coat). In addition, the less chipping fluids will define how the chipping will look.

It is also best to "dampen" the area with water before doing the chipping. If too much water is applied will greatly effect the amount of paint that is removed.

Best of luck!

I will defo order some then.I have been meaning to change brands and if they spray as good as you say I shall sell the rest of my Vallejo bottles as I have about 40 of them.

Thanks Jonathan and Todd much appreciated

Karl

Now, if you do any hand-painting, I'd still hold on to the Vallejo. Not much beats them in that department.

FYI: most of the Ammo paints are ready to airbrush out of the bottle. If you need to thin, they make their own thinner. I've also used Vallejo's Airbrushing Thinner with them as well.

The only issue that Ammo paints is sometimes color accuracy can be a bit off IMO.

If you're going to commit to a brand, choose Ammo. Superior product and excellent performance across the board. The paint goes on like velvet. Ready to airbrush from the bottle, maybe use a little of their thinner or distilled water. Ammo acrylics hand-paint right out of the bottle wonderfully, too. All of the products and systems are so well thought out it amazes me. Yes, Mig does go "artsy" once in a while, but all the other companies are just playing catch up.

Karl,
Hello, I hope you are well. AMMO acrylics work very well for this technique. Also, Tamiya and Lifecolor work well. I would suggest to try all 3 - each paint behaves a little different than the next. Each works very well once you are comfortable with how to work within the paint's characteristics.
You will find that one fits your process best and you will be able to choose what is best for you. You will also find that each will create different chipping effects when manipulated in different ways. It is not about which one works well, they are all outstanding. It is more about what you are comfortable with and how many different effects can you get from each.
Anyway Karl, you have AMMO's full support. We create an outstanding product and I personally will work with you if you experience any difficulty or have any questions.
Best Regards,
Iain Hamilton
AMMO

Thanks for your post Iain

I bought seven bottles and I hope to paint my sherman tomorrow with your Olive drab colours.
I shall let you know soon as I have put on the base coat.
thanks
karl