Diecast Model Guides
Vallejo Aged Metal 77.179: Plan Wear Without Losing the Metal
Aged Metal 77.179 is an 18 ml True Metallic Metal Airbrush color from Vallejo. It can establish the metallic base of a model whose fittings, armor or machinery should look used. Start by deciding how much of the base will remain exposed after shading and weathering; that decision helps you avoid covering every part with the same final treatment.
Choose a believable pattern of use
Separate the areas that would be handled or rubbed from sheltered recesses. On a miniature mechanism, for example, you might reserve a clearer edge for a frequently touched surface while giving a recessed panel more shadow. Adapt the plan to the object and your reference rather than treating every edge alike.
Aged Metal is the color name, not a complete weathering recipe. A sample containing both a flat area and a recess lets you compare the metallic base with any later wash, highlight or deposit. Judge that sample as a whole before carrying the process onto a detailed assembly.
Choose the right Aged Metal version
| Version | Reference | Painting role |
|---|---|---|
| Airbrush | 77.179 | Metallic base tone formulated for spraying |
| Base | 77.139 | Matching metallic base color for brush work |
| Shade | 77.159 | Darker, non-metallic shading color with a satin finish |
| Light | 77.119 | Brighter metallic color for highlights |
These are separate paints. Choose the versions needed for your painting plan.
Keep one sample of the original base
- Clean and prepare the model material with a suitable primer. Use the same preparation on the sample and follow the drying instructions.
- Mix the bottle as directed. The Airbrush version is ready to spray, so begin with a short test before adding thinner or changing your equipment settings.
- Build the base with controlled passes and let it dry. Keep part of the test sample untouched for comparison when you add the next treatment.
- Apply shading or a brighter metallic step where the form calls for it. Test any final varnish too, and record the sequence if several components need the same result.
Follow the paint label and your airbrush instructions for safe spraying and cleanup. Work with the ventilation and protective measures specified for the products you use.
Frequently asked questions
Does “Aged Metal” mean I can skip the other painting steps?
It gives you a metallic color to work from. The amount of shadow, wear and surface buildup remains part of your painting plan; a simple color finish may need fewer steps than a heavily weathered scene.
What is the difference between 77.179 and 77.159?
77.179 is Aged Metal Airbrush, a metallic base color. 77.159 is Aged Metal Shade, the darker, non-metallic shading formula.
How much thinner should I add?
There is no mandatory dilution for this ready-to-use range. Vallejo permits Airbrush Thinner for subtle effects and warns that too much can leave an uneven finish. Adjust only after a test.
Choose the paint for your next step
View Aged Metal 77.179 and its current product options, then browse model paints and finishing supplies for the rest of your plan. The airbrush paint mixing and first-spray guide helps you organize a small test before working on the model. Find more painting and building guidance in the Hobby Learning Center.
