Brothers in Arms

It's not uncommon for veterans who retire from serving to take up recreational shooting using comparable gear and weapons as their government issued counterparts. Our Military OCP camouflage pattern was designed specifically with these folks in mind. If it was good enough to work while deployed, it'll certainly get the job done on domestic soil. We recently released the Thin Green Line to celebrate all those who served in the US Military.

It is not a requirement to be a card carrying veteran to consider yourself a civilian tactical operator, however. Many fine young men and women invest in training courses and equip themselves with the right apparel and hardware for these high octane drills. They prefer digital camo over sticks and leaves, the stencil over floral design, and a configurable AR-15 over a stock hunting rifle any day of the week. When the zombie apocalypse inevitably breaks out, these are the guys you'd want in your caravan.

It's Personal

Gun owners are a rather passionate crowd. While some may scoff at the idea of customizing a firearm simply because they view it as nothing more than a tool, they miss the part that for many, being a gun owner, and by extension their gun, is a part of who they are. Car guys are a thing, so too is being a gun guy. The difference, however, is that the owning and operating a vehicle isn't a right, but rather, a privilege. Meanwhile, gun ownership is a fundamental right of every US citizen, protected by the 2nd Amendment.

Not unlike car buffs, tactical enthusiasts also believe that any customization you can do to make your hardware different than what came stock, all the better. These guys are anything but vanilla! When they show up at the range with their full arsenal, you can bet they frequently receive compliments and inquiries about their weapons. It's not unheard of for someone like this to spend thousands on a single rifle with a custom magwell, fluted barrel, extra capacity magazine, and more.

GunSkins offers the ability to change the look of the firearm by doing it yourself instead of sending it off to have it installed by a gunsmith (no judgment if you do). This particular aspect of our product is alluring to those who prefer to build their own rifles from the ground up rather than purchase one pre-assembled. The time and energy put into installing every spring and takedown pin is a labor of love. Applying GunSkins with the same level of precision and personal touch is expected and appreciated.

Applications vary from user to user. On the surface, the getup screams 'special forces', but that doesn't always reflect the intent of use. Some simply prefer tactical camo over traditional foliage during a hunting trip. Are they subconsciously preparing for another world war? Maybe some are, but for the most part it's simply a matter of personal preference. It certainly gives them an edge when their stealth is cranked up to eleven!

Making the Best With What You've Got

Elsewhere around the world, where gun laws are more restrictive, we've seen a rise in alternative shooting opportunities, including airsoft and paintball. Our GunSkins dealers in Japan and Europe have found success in establishing our product as a viable option for customizing pellet, bb, and paint-specific firearms. These replicas are virtually identical to their real steel counterparts. Since our vinyl wraps only cover the surface, they are always compatible.

When these are the only forms of personal firearms available, it's no surprise that someone would go above and beyond to make their presence and their weapon look as legit as possible. Having the ability to customize with GunSkins is a great option to make your non-lethal shooter stand out and triumph over the rest of the competition. 

You don't need to be on the SWAT team to dress and maneuver like a badass. There is an engaging community for folks who are passionate about guns, gear, and glory! How this is expressed is as varied as the users themselves. Some people enjoy running drills and keeping diligence, should a worst-case scenario ever occur. Those overseas engage in team-based rounds of airsoft and paintball competitions. Still others are simply good-to-honest hunting folk who like to do things a little different.

There is something about donning a uniform with matching protective equipment and firearm that gives a person an aura of authority, respect, and leadership. These are the kind of alpha leaders who take charge and take point. Does all that tactical gear and camouflage make them a better marksman? There may not be any evidence to suggest causation, but there is certainly a correlation that is hard to deny.

Simply put, those who spend most of their free time investing top quality apparel, weapons, and matching GunSkins are more than likely proficient in the use of such equipment and therefore worthy of the title: tactical operator.

With over 50+ patterns to choose from, there is a GunSkins option for every gun owner! Check them out! Which firearm do you own?

AR-15

Pistol

Rifle

AK-47

When restoring an antique or damaged gun, GunSkins can be a part of that process. Vinyl isn't designed as a substitute for gun repair, but it can prove useful for covering up minor blemishes and preserving the condition of the surface once properly treated. Let's take this 30-30 rifle as a prime candidate for restoration. This poor thing received moisture damage from being left in a basement for too long without proper storage. Let's give this old rifle some new life!

Break It Down

To properly asses the damage, you will need to take apart the rifle and inspect each piece individually. There are clear signs of water damage on the wooden buttstock while the metal receiver, trigger guard, and barrel are covered in rust. The wood and the metallic components will have to be treated differently, so it's good to group them accordingly.

There are many different products and procedures to use when it comes to restoring antique and damaged guns. We'll make some suggestions but you should use diligence, do some research, and find whatever works best for you. We are not certified gunsmiths, and this article is designed to generally cover the topic of gun restoration, not provide an in-depth tutorial. Seek professional help if you do not feel comfortable restoring a rifle on your own.

Clean and Restore

Before anything can be restored, it needs to be cleaned first and foremost. When it comes to removing dirt, grease, and oil, we recommend using a gun-specific degreaser such as Froglube Solvent or Gun Scrubber. A small brush is helpful when cleaning the hard-to-reach areas. Use a lint-free cloth, and wipe down with rubbing alcohol to remove any standing moisture and debris.

The barrel, receiver, trigger, and other metal components need to be treated to remove the rust. Avoid using steel brushes or sponges as this is too abrasive and will remove whatever finish is left on the surface. Shop around for proper metal treatment chemicals and instructions if you intend to do it yourself.

When it comes to restoring the wood grain, you may need to remove the finish on it first before applying a new one. People have different methods when approaching wood restoration, but generally speaking it's common to sand the surface until smooth and then apply a combination of oils, stains, varnishes, and/or clear-coat sealants to protect the new finish.

If you intend to restore the firearm to firing condition, it will be required to re-blue the metal components. Bluing a gun refers to applying a layer of black iron oxide to the metal surface, which is designed to prevent rust, thus extending the life of the gun. There are several ways of bluing your gun, including hot and cold options. These vary in terms of ease of application, cost of materials, time, and durability. 

Finish it off with GunSkins

Once all the parts have been cleaned, restored, re-finished, and blued, the rifle can be put back together. At this point, the restoration is complete and rifle is as good as new. However, we thought that we could do better than just going back to the way it was. By wrapping the receiver and barrel in Proveil Victory, the vinyl will act as another layer of protection, keeping the metal safe from moisture and oxidization. We wouldn't want history to repeat itself.

Gun restoration is not a quick process. Take your time and the end result will reflect that. It is important to remember that vinyl should only be applied to surfaces that have been properly finished. It is not a good idea to wrap raw metal or wood. GunSkins can still be a part of the restoration process by extending the life of the new finish, not a replacement for it.

There's no doubt that applying a vinyl covering to your weapon, be it worn and torn or brand new, can make it stand out among the others on your gun rack. While rifle restoration can be a tedious and lengthy process, installing GunSkins is a much simpler and quick endeavor by comparison. Besides making your rifle look like a million bucks, it will do well to keep it in pristine condition for years to come.

Cerakote

When it first came on the market, Cerakote was an alternative to bluing, and the options were pretty limited as far as colors and patterns. So much has changed. Just in the last few years, more people are being trained to apply Cerakote in the proper way for that legendary finish that resists weather, chemicals, abrasion, and neglect. Colors have flooded the market, and the artistry of the work has caught up to the best paint jobs out there.

In short, the durability of a Cerakote finish is what drives its high price point, upwards of $400 in some cases and that doesn’t include shipping and the time your firearm isn’t available to you. It can’t be applied in your backyard, and most Cerakote finishes require very specific curing conditions.

Just like sifting through the best pistol sights, high-end lasers, and enhanced triggers to outfit your barbecue pistol, Cerakote for most of us is an expensive option for safe queens that only see sunny range days. It’s both tough and durable, but hardly a necessity if you just want to add some looks to your pistol or rifle.

Rust-O and Rattlecan Paint

The alternative for most of us is to go with conventional paint or bluing. Since bluing doesn’t allow much in the way of customization, we won’t go into detail on that. Rattlecan paint is the poor man’s gun decoration, and depending on your skill with a paint can, you can actually get some pretty solid finishes. With the right prep work and a dedicated masking plan, your gun can look as good or better than any of your friends on Instagram.

You can match the pattern to the rest of your range gear, or put a truly custom look on your favorite Glock. Just like Cerakote, the better the prep work, the better the finish. Surfaces need to be degreased and scrubbed with fine sandpaper or emery cloth to make the paint adhere better. A primer specific for the material you are working with is also essential, especially on polymer stocks as most paints won’t stick to plastics very well.

The firearm needs to be disassembled, masked, and several coats applied. It’s a lot of work, but when done well can turn out gorgeous. Paint can get pretty rugged too if you are using the right stuff. Hard enamels for appliances work well, and there are several available in a can.

GunSkins

GunSkins are a newer form of vinyl decal that can add superior styling without the need to mask off tiny areas and apply umpteen paint layers. Anyone who has done a lot of custom masking will tell you that each new layer of paint adds another chance to ruin the entire finish with one scratch or bleed out. Vinyl decals are printed to an exceptional degree of accuracy, and this issue with the rattlecan technique is totally eliminated, allowing you to easily get truly amazing designs.

Add a heat gun, and GunSkins heat-shrink themselves onto the surface, giving you a finished product that won’t peel or blister. At the same time, they can be removed quite easily if you want to change your design later on down the road. There is one caveat, and that rests with the spaces that the GunSkins won’t cover. Decals are applied separately over different areas of the firearm, and if the background color of your GunSkins doesn’t match the firearm, then you will have some obvious places where it looks like, well, a sticker.

This too can be solved though. By combining a base color on your weapon with either Cerakote or rattlecanning, you can match the vinyl color. This gives you ultimate customization without masking, but there’s still a little “painting” involved.

Which is Best for You?

If you are pretty handy with a paint can and sandpaper, then you can get an amazing finish with nearly unlimited creativity using a combination of GunSkins and paint.

With a dark background, GunSkins can do the job themselves with no underlayment of color. If you want an exotic solid color, then by all means go with the rattlecan. If you plan on storing your weapon in battery acid, we’d recommend springing for the Cerakote.

Guest Author Bio

Richard Douglas writes on firearms, defense and security issues. He is the founder and editor of Scopes Field, and a columnist at The National Interest, 1945, Daily Caller and other publications.

When it comes to holsters, friction is the great enemy. It doesn't matter if it's our vinyl, the factory surface of the gun, spray paint, or some other finish, friction is going to cause signs of wear on whatever your finish is on the gun. Some finishes are more durable than others, but given enough time not one is impervious to the degrading effects of friction.

Realistic Expectations

When it comes to our vinyl specifically, there are a few things to keep in mind. Seldom will we see the vinyl peel completely away. Most often you'll just see small wear spots develop in the high friction areas of the firearm. Now, to combat that, ours is a DIY product. We encourage people to skin their firearm however they want.

Customizable Approach

Some people elect just to skin the grip, some will skin just the slide and they'll avoid those high friction areas that are ultimately going to show signs of wear so they can modify their pistol skin however they so choose. Inspect your EDC carefully and decide where it makes sense to wrap in vinyl and where to leave as is. That way, you can have your cake and eat it, too.

Preservation

Other people note that we advertise our product as a protectant. It's very durable and it's great for protecting and preserving the finish of your firearm. They apply that to their pistol, knowing that they are going to scuff and scratch up their pistol from their holster. They'd rather scuff up and wear out, ultimately, our vinyl than their pistol. And they're protecting and preserving the finish of the firearm.

Value Using Vinyl

Lastly, there is a crowd of people that just love our product and it's a fair trade off for them to have an awesome looking firearm even if they have to put up with some wear spots here and there from their holster. Ultimately it comes down to your preferences, your choice in holster, and the material that it's made out of. Just bear in mind that more friction is going to cause scuffing and scratching regardless of the finish on the firearm than a holster that causes less friction.

Where traditional coating or dipping solutions require professional removal that is time consuming and costly, GunSkins vinyl wraps can be removed in just a few minutes with little to no evidence that it was ever there. Any residue left behind is easily removed with a cleaning solvent and you're ready to install your new pattern.

Out With the Old, In With the New

Don't believe us? Take a look at this quick video as we remove a pistol skin, revealing the clean, preserved factory finish underneath.

It's also nice to know that vinyl removal doesn't require the use of any harsh chemicals, for example acetone, which is commonly used to strip paint. No need for masks or thorough room ventilation to get the job done. How easy is that?

GunSkins is a one-time use application. The removal process does stretch and tear the vinyl into ripped pieces, not ideal for a second installation. Discard the material after taking it off and you're ready for round two with a brand new pattern! Even if you repeat this process several times, you're still below what it would cost using other finish options.

Ready to wrap your own firearm? Check out our entire offering of wraps for pistols, rifles, shotguns, AR-15's, AK-47's, mags and other gear!

AR-15

Pistol

Rifle

AK-47

The Universal Approach

Long gone are the days of high noon and going heeled. While the modern gun owner is still likely to walk around town with his everyday carry, more often than not it will be a semi-automatic slide action pistol (1911 for example). That's not to say the six-shooter is completely outdated. Revolvers are popular for use as palm-sized self defense weapons, competition shooting, and the pièce de résistance for serious gun collectors.

GunSkins offers several DIY vinyl wrap options for pistols. Generally speaking, our templates were designed for the beforementioned semi-auto family of handguns. However, we (and our customers) have successfully installed the universal Pistol Skin on the good 'ol peace keeper with a little bit of creativity and a whole lot of passion!

Tactical 6-Shooter

Our universal Pistol Skin was designed for a frame or barrel/slide up to 8" in length. We recommend removing the cylinder for easier installation on the frame. The two pieces of vinyl are designed for the left and right side, respectively. Use heat to conform to the details of the surface. Use the edge of the frame as a guide and trim away, leaving enough to wrap around the front and back at least halfway through.

The second frame piece will overlap over the first, creating a seam in the middle. Be creative in your trim for the best blend. For example, a straight line might work fine for the stars and stripes of the American Flag but if you're rocking camouflage or other specialty pattern, the seam will be less conspicuous if cut in a meandering fashion.

The last major piece of vinyl is marked for the slide. Since revolvers lack the semi-auto racking mechanism, this piece will instead be used to wrap the cylinder with. Make sure it's empty prior to installing. Measure and cut a strip to match the length of the cylinder, with a little extra to be safe. Wrap around to overlap and trim as necessary. Use heat to press the material into the grooves and make it look good!

Reach For the Sky

After reassembling the revolver, hit the entire surface with a post heat and keep pressing in to lock in the look. Using a piece of foam or cloth is helpful as this will counter the details much better than the palm of your hand. Doing this for several minutes resets the vinyl's internal memory and when cooled, will harden and retain shape for years. 

Pistol Skins can be holstered on the regular safely when wearing flexible holsters made from leather, canvas, or other softer material. Having a piece on their hip can make one feel safe. Why not make it look like a million bucks while you're at it? If you intend to keep the justice for years to come, GunSkins will do its part to make sure the sun never sets on your beloved revolver.

Originally founded in 2003, the America Sim Racing Series (ASRS) has evolved into a premier iRacing series and 2020 provided yet another boost in popularity. The CUP series includes 35 races on some of the most renown racetracks in America.

Thanks to veteran racer Tim Knott, GunSkins has been given the opportunity to fly it’s flag during the series as the presenting sponsor of five races, including the series finale at Phoenix Raceway.

Start Your Engines

Knott is a member of Dirty Bird Sim Racing, owned by Jason Stewart. A Texas native, Tim spent his early years behind the wheel of a UMP/USMTS dirt modified but these days, simulators make racing a lot more feasible…not to mention affordable.

You can catch all the action from the GunSkins 150 at Phoenix Raceway TONIGHT, March 17 at 9PM EST right here.

GunSkins, a popular protective, nonporous DIY vinyl wrap for guns, was announced today by Enders and Elite Motorsports as a sponsor for the upcoming 2021 racing season, which begins March 5-7 with the CTECH World Doorslammer Nationals presented by JEGS in Orlando and continues the next weekend in Gainesville to kick off the NHRA campaign.

On the heels of her fourth world championship in 2020, Enders is thrilled to add a marquee name to the team’s list of partners for the 2021 campaign.

“It’s a great pleasure to be involved with companies within our industry, but every once in a while it’s fun to branch out and attach our team and my name to a mainstream company that I already use and believe in,” Enders said. “I want to give a big thanks to GunSkins for this opportunity, and I know they won’t regret getting involved in drag racing. We are the demographic they cater to and it’s very exciting.”

GunSkins offer a cost-effective solution to more expensive coatings or dips and with more than 60 patterns and a universal fitment for virtually all firearms, they offer an abundance of options. The GunSkins are vinyl and non-permanent, allowing the user to easily swap patterns to match the season or different hunting gear without paying a high price.

Made from a heat-activated, high-performance vinyl with a non-reflective matte finish, GunSkins have proven to be extremely durable as well. Adding their name to Enders’ championship-winning team also presents a number of exciting opportunities.

"We're incredibly excited to join forces with Erica and the entire Elite Motorsports family. We know that many fans of NHRA drag racing are also firearm enthusiasts so this partnership provides an exciting opportunity to share our products with a new audience,” said Seth Fargher, GunSkins Director of Marketing.

"As an avid gun enthusiast, the fact that Erica is already familiar with our product made it an easy decision to join her program for 2021. GunSkins fans come from all different backgrounds and this new partnership will give us the opportunity to introduce thousands of NHRA drag racing fans to our product. Patriotism and a love of the outdoors are common themes among drag racing fans and our product mix speaks to both of them.”

From camouflage patterns designed by globally recognized brands such as Realtree, TrueTimber or Kryptek, to a patriotic look, GunSkins' attention to detail makes them an ideal fit for all firearms enthusiasts.

That includes Enders, a back-to-back world champ who won four races last season and has 29 career victories. Her fourth championship gave her more world titles than any professional female driver in NHRA history and adding a top-notch sponsor like GunSkins simply adds to the momentum heading into the new season.

“I’ve worked with a variety of supporters over the years, but this one is special in its own way,” Enders said. “Growing up a Texas girl, my dad taught us how to shoot and be comfortable with firearms at a young age, so getting involved with GunSkins is an absolute dream.

“In a time where a stigma hangs around the gun industry, it’s especially important to me to show our support for this company and our new partnership. I am honored to be someone they entrust with their brand and to run their colors with pride. Every gun I have will have GunSkins on it.”

ABOUT ELITE MOTORSPORTS

Elite Motorsports, LLC is your Premier Dealer for all your Motorsports transportation needs. Elite offers a wide variety of Semi Transporters, Motor Coaches, Gooseneck and Stacker Trailers, Specialty Hospitality and Point of Sale Units, and New and Used High Performance Engines, Race Cars, and Racing Equipment. The owners of Elite have extensive backgrounds in the Motorsports industry and have owned and operated professional race teams and will deliver a package that will meet your needs.

For more information, go to http://www.elitemotorsportsllc.com.

ABOUT ERICA ENDERS

Erica Enders is the driver of the Elite Motorsports/Melling Performance Chevrolet Camaro for team owner Richard Freeman in the NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series. Enders, the NHRA Pro Stock world champion in 2014 and 2015, also drives the Elite Motorsports twin-turbo Camaro in the NHRA Pro Mod Series.

For more on Erica Enders visit www.EricaEndersRacing.com.

When it comes to the high performance vinyl that GunSkins is made from, there can be a lot of confusion or assumptions about what it can or cannot do. For instance, it would be an over simplification to simply call our product a sticker or decal for your gun. Doing so gives the impression our wraps are made from cheap material, can't withstand the elements, or will peel off after firing a few rounds.

Let's take a look at some of the specifications of the material and then we'll dive into the how and why it performs as well as it does and finally we'll conclude with some best practices for getting the most out of your GunSkins.

Technical Specifications

The following list describes in detail the performance you should expect from GunSkins:

• HIGH PERFORMANCE VINYL - This is the best stuff on the market today.
• ADHESIVE BACKING - Peel off, stick on, re-position as many times as necessary.
• MATTE LAMINATED - Non-glossy, non-reflective finish for outdoor use.
• MEASURES 6/10 MM - 3/10 mm thickness in printed vinyl and 3/10 mm in lamination.
• HEAT ACTIVATED - Rated up to 230 degrees Fahrenheit.
• 100% WATERPROOF - Completely sealed edges and seams, no moisture seeps underneath.
• NON-POROUS - Stop oxidation in its tracks. Prevent rust.
• CONFORMABILITY - Molds to any shape and texture. Wrap edges, notches, buttons, pins, adjustment knobs, etc.
• COLOR QUALITY - We guarantee color from fading as part of our Lifetime Warranty.
• REMOVABLE - Add a little heat and peel it off with no residue left behind.

Tacky to the Touch

A misconception with our product is that if the backing doesn't feel tacky to the touch, it won't stick on the surface and stay on for an extended period of time. Again, GunSkins are not like paper stickers or window clings. The lack of initial tack of an adhesive does not mean the holding power is absent. The adhesive in the vinyl builds bond over time to an engineered level. The combined use of both heat and pressure repeatedly during the installation process is one of the key factors to a lasting wrap. Post heating and letting the vinyl cool for good will cause it will harden and retain shape like a protective shell.

Heat Activated

There's a lot going on when we simply say that our vinyl is "heat activated". While still pliable if used at room temperature, the material becomes much easier to use when warm. The heat causes a separation between the print layer and the lamination on top, allowing for it to be manipulated. Applying heat reaching up to 200 - 225 degrees slowly across the surface will reduce the internal stress of the vinyl and allow it to be pulled, stretched, and pressed down to conform to whatever shape necessary.

Internal Memory

Stretching too far, especially around an edge to create an overlap, may cause problems down the road. If you encounter some areas where the vinyl is peeling back, the likely culprit is because the material was spread too far. Lifting and separation occur because the vinyl has internal memory, just like a piece of elastic. It will always attempt to return to its original state once stretched.

The truth is, the vinyl's internal memory can be destroyed and reset when heated and stretched within acceptable limits. You can tell you're pulling too far because it causes the print to thin out, turning the color white the farther you go. It also looses tactile strength in the adhesive because the piece is covering more surface area than it was intended for.

Adhesive Contamination

It's not expected for the end user to work in a hospital-sterile environment when installing GunSkins, but the cleaner the area, gun, and hands are the better. While working with the vinyl it may be possible for sweat and skin oils to get on the adhesive from your hands. This is especially so when grabbing the material to stretch it into place. This contamination reduces the ultimate adhesion level of the backing.

It is advised to wash your hands and even wipe them with a cloth using isopropyl alcohol to remove any remaining moisture, oil, and debris to reduce the possibility of contamination. Another alternative is to wear a pair of forming fitting latex or vinyl gloves. A simple solution like this can go a long way in ensuring the success of your GunSkins installation.

Do It Yourself

Don't let the technical jargon leave you with the impression you need to be a professional in order to wrap your everyday carry. We've done our best to make GunSkins as accessible as possible, something that anybody can complete in the comfort of their garage. We offer many more helpful articles and installation videos to make it as easy as possible for the end user.

On average, a first time installer can expect 1-2 hours for a Pistol Skin and maybe another hour for a complete AR-15 or Rifle Skin. Mag Skins can be installed in a matter of minutes and its a good place to start for those looking to dip their toe before taking a deep dive. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, we've got the tips and tricks you need to know so your gun looks great and lasts as long as possible!

Our customers are aware that GunSkins come packaged in a cardboard sleeve with a window opening to showcase the pattern of choice. Many of our large templates, including the Rifle and Pistol Skin, come folded in order to fit into the packaging. For some, this is a cause for concern. Nobody wants to see the finish on their pistol grip with a wrinkle spanning across it.

Vinyl is Flexible

First and foremost, vinyl is a plastic material. It's synthetic and designed with flexibility in mind. It's not ridged or stiff, though it is very durable and scratch resistant. GunSkins is made from a very specialized type of vinyl adhesive that is heat activated. It's more accurate to call it a heat stretching material, not a heat shrink.

While it can be unsightly to see a large fold in the middle of the vinyl template, it is quite normal and absolutely necessary for packaging purposes. Larger sheets of vinyl purchased in bulk may come rolled to avoid creases such as these. Having the material come folded for smaller vinyl applications is not a deal breaker. At the end of the day, this minor inconvenience will not hinder the look of the gun when installed on your firearm.

Use Heat to Work it Out

When installing a piece of vinyl with a prior crease on it, all you have to do to fix the problem is peel it off the backing, let it hang freely, and hit it with a little bit of heat. This will cause the vinyl to become loose and soft to the touch. When left to cool, the vinyl will harden and become stiff life before but the crease will be no more. It has an internal memory and the heat will allow it to reset to its initial shape.

This technique is also helpful if you've pulled the vinyl too far. Although designed to stretch, there is such a thing as taking it too far. Over-stretching causes the color of the print to turn white as it thins out. The adhesive will likewise lose strength because it's covering a larger surface area than intended. If this happens, peel the vinyl and let it hang. Use a swaying motion with a heat gun on the lowest setting and watch as it pulls back in and reverts to its previous shape, ready for another go.

Don't be fooled by the initial appearance of the product. What comes as a flat and folded piece of vinyl has the power to take your weapon to the next level. GunSkins will conform to any shape and can be installed on virtually any surface. Don't let something like a crease stop you in your tracks. Hit it with heat and work through the wrinkle with your fingers, smoothing it out as you go and voilà, it just as easily disappears as if it was never there!

GunSkins is much easier to work with than most people imagine. Our vinyl is very forgiving, able to be peeled off and re-positioned as many times as needed until you have it just where you want it! Not every vinyl wrap is as accommodating as GunSkins. We believe in our product and that's why we offer a 60 Day Money Back Guarantee with every purchase.

"Just add heat and the vinyl goes on neat!"

In the past, an armored knight would often showcase their family coat of arms on their shield. However, it would also be commonplace to see icons or symbols relating to the kingdom as a whole. The Jerusalem Cross first dates back to the 11th Century, but was made the official emblem of the Kingdom of Jerusalem in the 1280s. Flags, shields, and banners all waved the iconic five-fold cross with pride for both King and Creator for hundreds of years.

Today's soldiers don't bear heavy shields or wave banners into the battlefield, but there is still a perfect place for a marksman to decorate his rifle with an emblem of historical and personal significance. Adorning the magazine of the AR-15 pays tribute to the knights of old, all the while allowing you to embark on a new kind of crusade, one not against flesh and blood but against false ideologies and oppression of freedom.

GunSkins Crusader's Cross features the aesthetic of battle-worn steel with gold trimming, something worthy of being equipped by the royals and nobles of yonder. The white of the cross itself is free of distress, suggesting purity of intent or divine mission, a holy war. The Crusader's Cross is also available in the Magwell Skin, for those looking for a more subtle enhancement.

The Jerusalem Cross has been used to decorate historical European artifacts and cathedrals for centuries. Throughout the years the symbol has been referenced for both religious purposes as well as geographical or political attributions. In modern times, the five cross design easily conjures thoughts of the famous crusades, kingdom warfare, and the liberation of the Holy Land. One does not need be religious to support the concept of fighting the good fight.

Are you ready to embark on a crusade of your own? Take up the quest and lead the march at daybreak!

Our top notch design team has been hard at work on an all new Pistol Skin, AR-15 Rifle Skin, AR-15 Mag Skin, and a special “Come and Take It” Magwell Skin -- we couldn’t be more pleased with the results. The pattern features a weathered and rolling appearance and includes incredible detail, highlighting the fibers in the flag.

As with all of our GunSkins, the Texas flag GunSkins is made from our durable, non-porous, vinyl. It features a matte finish and is heat rated up to 230 degrees so whether you’re out plinking with friends or putting some serious lead down range, you won’t have to worry about the GunSkins overheating.

Take a peak at this exciting new video featuring our all new GunSkins and click the products below to order any of our Texas Flag offerings.

TEXAS FLAG AVAILABLE IN THE FOLLOWING:  

AR-15

Pistol

AR-15 Mag Skin

Magwell

“GunSkins has a great product here and we are really excited about our customers having the opportunity to customize their firearms and accessories in our patterns,” said TrueTimber CEO Rusty Sellars. “We have incorporated our patterns on many firearms over the years for shooters to be able to take advantage of the concealment our camo offers. With GunSkins, users can do just that, but in a DIY system and that is hard to beat in terms of versatility.”

-- Rusty Sellars, CEO TrueTimber

GunSkins feature a waterproof, non-reflective matte finish which acts as a layer of protection for any gun or accessory. The easy to install, high-performance vinyl conforms to any shape and is easily installed using a heat gun, hobby knife and squeegee. These products are just as easily removed and leave no residue behind. GunSkins are made in the U.S.A, feature a lifetime warranty and have a 60-day moneyback guarantee.

To learn more about the entire TrueTimber product line and see all available patterns, visit TrueTimber.com. Details about future product launches can be found on TrueTimber’s Facebook, Instagram and Twitter pages.

About TrueTimber

Founded in 2005, TrueTimber is based in Inman, South Carolina and is the most realistic, performance-driven camouflage brand in the industry. TrueTimber offers a wide variety of clothing items and accessories, featuring 27 distinct camo patterns that perfectly blend with their surroundings. The company spends countless hours researching, testing and seeking new technology to produce the most effective and lifelike camouflage patterns possible. TrueTimber products can be found in retailers across the United States and Canada, and it continues to be one of the fastest growing camouflage companies in the world. For more information about TrueTimber, visit TrueTimber.com.

About GunSkins

GunSkins has been leading the DIY camouflage wrap movement since 2013. Easy to install pre-cut vinyl templates, GunSkins are an affordable aftermarket finish for guns and gear. GunSkins customers are highly satisfied with both the products and service, with thousands of 5-star reviews from verified purchases. No other brand matches GunSkins in quality or variety of patterns to choose from.

AR-15 Rifle Skin (TrueTimber HTC Green)

Partner of the Month

Every month we highlight one of our partners in camouflage by giving away one of their GunSkins patterns. This month features, you guessed it, TrueTimber! All you have to do is enter your name and email address and you are entered, no purchase necessary.

If you are the winner, you get to pick any one of our GunSkins products featuring one of TrueTimber patterns. This is a monthly contest and in order to be entered you must enter your name and email address every month. Previous entries will not carry over.

While big game hunting goes in and out of season elsewhere, Masser Ranch in Texas offers the thrill of the hunt year round. Axis deer are always in season and because they shed their antlers at various times of the year you can be assured of a trophy axis. You'll encounter big racks walking the ranch at all times! The GunSkins team visited the ranch recently for an extraordinary Axis Deer hunt with three generations of our family bringing home amazing bucks, a freezer full of meat, and beautiful trophies including pillows for the couch!

Hunting Ground for Axis Deer

Axis deer are native to the Indian subcontinent and are the noted prey of the Bengal Tiger. That said, the axis deer have been thriving in Texas for the past 90 years without their natural feline predator. That's where we hunters have the obligation to step in and keep their numbers at bay. Axis are thought by many to be the most beautiful deer with their rust colored coats and white spots paired with three-pronged antlers up to three feet tall.

Three generations of GunSkins hunters

Most consider Axis meat to be superior to any other deer meat and the least gamey. GunSkins can personally attest to its superior taste relative to whitetail deer, mule deer, blacktail deer, and even elk. Does can weigh as much as 135 lbs while bucks can clock in at 200 lbs. Our trip to Masser Ranch for the spotted axis deer did not leave us disappointed!

Masser Ranch recently opened up public hunting of their axis herd in 2019. They offer different hunting packages for trophy hunting, meat hunting, and lodging is available on-site so you don't have to commute back and forth. Interested hunters should contact the ranch immediately for a great Axis hunt between now and September.

Camouflage and Protection

As you would expect, we came prepared for this hunt by wrapping our rifles in our favorite camouflage patterns. My personal Sako 85 Finnlight .308 was wrapped in the Prym1 Woodlands camo. My son transformed his Remington model 700 6.5 Creedmmor with Realtree Meteorite and Carbon Fiber for the barrel. Breaking up the matte black does wonders when it comes to concealment and personal customization.

Rifle Skin (Realtree Meteorite and Carbon Fiber)

Located in the middle of the beautiful Texas Hill Country in western Gillespie County, the Masser Ranch offers a rocky-rolling live oak savanna, peppered with a rich diversity of plant life, and more than a mile of gin-clear spring fed creeks that are stocked with largemouth bass, catfish, and bluegill sunfish. The entire ranch is surrounded with an 8-foot tall game fence to enable optimal whitetail deer management.

Masser Ranch is family owned and operated with over 30 years of experience in the hunting and outfitting industry. You can expect a quality experience with old-time Texas hospitality and authentic Southern-style cuisine at a reasonable price. First time and seasoned hunters alike never leave the ranch without lasting and positive memories of their tailored hunting adventures.

GunSkins proudly recommends you take your family or hunting buddies to Masser Ranch for an experience you'll cherish for a lifetime. The good folks at the ranch are devoted to hunting, fishing, bird watching, outdoor photography, and any other pursuit of wildlife appreciation. Contact the Masser Ranch today to schedule your next trip before the end of Summer. You won't regret it!

Their documented adventures in 2004 was the beginning of a new program series they called Accept the Challenge. This locally aired television program would eventually be broadcast on national TV as a fully realized hunting and outdoor show. Fast forward more than fifteen years later and the series has grown and re-braded itself as The Challenge Outdoors. What has not changed after all those years, however, is the grounded approach in documenting life before, during, and after the hunt.

Scott and Brad still run the show, but they have made many acquaintances, friends, and partners along the way. The Challenge Outdoors is an example of a coming together not only of two good friends, but also of companies and products that exemplify a passion for the outdoors and the thrill of the hunt. GunSkins and Raider Concealment have partnered together to make the latest season of The Challenge Outdoors its best one yet!

Turkey hunting with rifle wrapped in Raider Gladius

GunSkins is no stranger to giving hunters the upper hand with adding the necessary camouflage to their rifles, scopes, shotguns, and other gear. Having the right pattern on your person and your equipment to match is vital when holding down your position among the foliage of the terrain around you. Raider Concealment is a new kind of super-effective camouflage, created by Scott and Brad in partnerships with the team over at A-TACS Camo.

Clint Hoover and Phil Duke from A-TACS bring more than 25 years of military expertise and camouflage design experience while Scott and Brad offer their wisdom gained from the years of hunting, on and off the show. Raider Concealment is considered a hybrid camouflage, crafted as an abstract pattern to break up the human form and allow them to blend into almost any environment. Raider's patterns were designed by military tactical experts for use in (but not limited to) any hunting application.

Raider Concealment launched with a series of six patterns, ranging from your all-purpose forest camo, winter options, all the way to marine-specific blue patterns and even fiery orange tones for those who need to stand out, rather than blend in. The lineup of patterns featured on the show include Broadsword, Gladius, and Sabre. These are the go-to Raider camouflage choices for the efficient hunter.

Hunter wearing Raider Broadsword and rifle wrapped in Raider Gladius

Raider Broadsword is perhaps the flagship pattern for this new and upcoming camouflage line. Broadsword contains the essential earth tones you would expect but features segments of warmer colors which make it ideal for late season hunting, specifically the Fall and early Winter. Because this pattern contains the most variance in reds, browns, and even greens, Broadsword is the best option for maximizing your concealability in the most environments possible.

The next pattern is Raider Gladius, which trades all of the reds and orange colors for more greens, making this the most lush and saturated of the three. Gladius was designed for use in the Spring and early Fall where you would expect the foliage to be at its peak bloom. Gladius and Broadsword complement each other as season camouflage for different times of the year.

The last camouflage pattern to bring to your attention is Raider Sabre. This camo is not restricted to use during a specific season or time of year, but rather, the location or environment for use. Gladius is the most neutral of the three, containing just a hint of green but focusing more on the brown and tan colors of the earth. This makes it a worthy candidate if your hunting in dry grass, rocky terrain, or wetlands.

GunSkins is excited to offer Raider Broadsword, Gladius, and Sabre for wrapping your hunting rifle, shotgun, scope, and other accessories. Scott and Brad, with the help of  A-TACS, and proving how effective their new Raider Concealment is on their show, The Challenge Outdoors. The series airs on Saturdays at 4:30 PM EST on the Pursuit Channel but can also be streamed via video on demand from Amazon Prime, Roku, and Vudo.

Dressing in camouflage has become something of a trend, a fashion statement that speaks to the outdoors men and women. Having camo on your person and your gear has become an external declaration of an internal passion. That being said, perhaps no specific pattern has penetrated popular culture quite like Xtra from Realtree Camo has.

For decades, Realtree Xtra was the flagship camouflage pattern for Bill Jordan's line of Realtree Camo. While not his first design, Xtra was the go-to choice because of how versatile it is. The user could wear Xtra during the Fall, Winter, and early Spring. "The Xtra in Realtree Xtra stands for extra effectiveness in the field." There was no need to change up your apparel and gear for every hunting season.

Like most sticks and leaves camo, Realtree Xtra uses the tried and true layered approach, featuring sharp details in the foreground, a semi-transparent mid-level foliage, and a soft, blurred background. The artwork contains a blend of dense tree texture consisting of overlapping limbs and leaves with open areas of color tones to give a varied look to your gear and apparel.

Realtree Camo has been designing camouflage since 1986 and they have definitely made a name for themselves. Their antler logo can be frequently spotted in a window decal on the back window of a truck. Xtra was such a hit that they even used it as the foundation for their Xtra Colors Series, which offers a variety of different background tones to match the personality of any wearer.

The fact that so many people don Realtree Xtra on their backpack or lunchbox does not take away the reliance of the camo for those who are serious hunters. Realtree is not a sell out. They produce an entire line of camouflage first and foremost for those who require successful concealment the next time they find themselves in the deep part of the woods, hiding among the trees in wait.

Most of our camouflage patterns are officially licensed by industry leading companies, including A-TACS, Kryptek, Realtree, TrueTimber, and more. Outdoors men and women have been wearing hunting apparel and gear in these beloved camo patterns for decades. It is vital that GunSkins vinyl gun wraps match the fabric counterpart for each respective pattern. If your gun doesn't blend in with your jacket, your concealment is compromised.

Color Confusion

Unfortunately, color accuracy is more complicated than you might imagine. Unlike any other material, matte-finish laminated vinyl takes the top spot as being the most adaptive when it comes to tones, at least that's been our experience. A single flat hue, FDE for example, can look pink indoors and grey when taken outside. Even photographs can't quite capture the look of the vinyl with absolute accuracy.

There is a name for this phenomenon: metamerism. This occurs when colors change hue when viewed under a variety of light sources. For example, the ‘Grass Green’ color of PenCott GreenZone appears much brighter under artificial light than it does under natural lighting in its intended environment. Tan can look pink, grey turns blue, and other tones can completely change just as easily.

Metamerism is both a blessing and a curse. It brings adaptability, which allows a pattern to become useful in far more applications and environments than initially intended. The downside, of course, comes with nailing down the "correct" color, especially when matching to non-vinyl surfaces of the same pattern. The solution to this problem can only be solved in the great outdoors.

Take it Outside

It is absolutely necessary to utilize natural sunlight to determine the vinyl's true color. It makes sense to tone to sunlight because our product is designed for use in outdoor sports including hunting, competitive shooting, and airsoft. When you're in the field, the color accuracy of your gear can mean the difference between victory or going home empty handed.

GunSkins puts in every effort to test and ensure every camouflage pattern we offer is correct. All vinyl prints are sent to each company for review until we get the green light. These camouflage designers hand pick and select each pattern to match official fabric. We assure you that every GunSkins vinyl kit is as precise as possible. This is our color-accurate guarantee.

Some patterns are subject to metamerism more than others. If you have any issues regarding your print quality, please take it outdoors and see for yourself what the true color looks like before contacting us. It may surprise you how the hues transform right before your eyes. Consider this: all color turns to black when locked up in a gun safe. GunSkins encourages you to go outside and protect yourself in camouflage!

This highly detailed and realistic portrayal of the stars and stripes is a far cry from the candy-cane invoking red, white, and blue finish seen elsewhere. The repeating wave of the flag ensures the artwork is varied across any surface, making it infinitely more interesting to behold. Unique, rustic, and easy on the eyes, this monotone version of our nation's flag is a GunSkins exclusive.

While other patriotic firearms are bright and colorful, Victory Grey is muted and void of any color. That does not, however, take away the immediate recognizability of the American Flag at a glance. The stars and stripes have fantastic contrast with each other. The white stripes offers the perfect backdrop for the placement of the handwritten text of the fourth article in the Bill of Rights, which was the foundation for the 2nd Amendment.

The original Proveil Victory, in color, will always be a popular choice. The grey variant matches well against the black matte of gun, giving it a subtle but personal touch that makes a statement without being too over-the-top. The texture of the flag resembles fabric, which takes the flag aesthetic to the next level.

Life is not always black and white. Sometimes we have to embrace the grey. There's no better way to support the 2nd Amendment than by wrapping your personal firearm with Victory Grey from Proveil Camo. Our right to bear arms shall not be infringed!

Technical Details

GunSkins camo wraps are made from premium vinyl. We guarantee that our product is going to be superior. Our kits are produced using the most adhesive, malleable, and durable 3M vinyl on the market. It's comparable to the material NASCAR uses to wrap their racecars with.

The vinyl is printed and laminated with a matte finish, measuring 0.6 mm thick. When installed successfully, the adhesion creates an air-tight seal along all edges, preserving the condition of the surface. GunSkins are 100% waterproof, non-porous, and can withstand temperatures up to 230 degrees Fahrenheit. We're not playing around. You can expect the vivid colors to last 5+ years, even in direct sunlight, and a lifetime warranty to boot!

Don't be fooled by our BattleWorn Series, the distress look is printed on purpose.

Made for Regular Use

We like a sweet finish on a gun as much as the next guy, but when we started this company it wasn't for bling-factor. We needed something that could not only help with concealment, but could take a beating from a weeklong hunting trip, and then some! It's commonplace to have your gear (or person) get scratched, dinged, and dropped while chasing bucks.

There is no need for special handling or delicate maintenance procedures to keep your GunSkins vinyl wrap from working hard for you. The vinyl is so tough, you'll dull your hobby knife blade several times over just during the installation process. Rest assured, GunSkins will not peel up or tear off on its own or even during use.

To ensure this kind of protection, make sure the surface of your gun is as clean as possible prior to installation. The presence of gun oil, grime, or dust will impede adhesion. Nothing sticks to dirt! Follow along with our installation videos to maximize the protection and life of your GunSkins!

… and Abuse

Our friends at the Firearm Blog have gone one step further and wondered just how far could you push GunSkins in terms of durability. They went through hundreds of rounds using our AR-15 Mag Skin, left it in a bucket of water for two days, and finished it off by running it over with their Tacoma 4x4. If you want to find out how well it held up, you can see the results for yourself by reading their review.

Will the AR-15 Mag Skin survive this kind of stress?

When we say "Made in USA", you can expect a product that will meet or exceed your expectations. We don't subscribe to the notion of offering a cheap manufactured goods that require replacement every other year of use. We have shotguns and rifles wrapped in GunSkins still going strong after half a decade of use.

Years of regular use and abuse will indeed scuff and mark the surface, don't get us wrong. But the vinyl will not tear or rip off, compromising the protection to your gun. The only way the GunSkins will come off is if you take it off yourself. And when you do that, the surface will be in the same condition as it was prior to installation. Back to square one, the perfect time to wrap again in a new pattern!

GunSkins is designed to take a beating so your gun doesn't have to. Hide in the trees or stand out at the gun range! Either way, we are proud to offer a product that excels in both form and function. Protect that which protects you!

The need for effective camouflage, however, has a far more reaching impact than mere sport. Modern warfare utilizes camouflage in all areas of combat and in every branch in the military. When life or death dance in the battlefield, the right pattern can tip the balance.

Camouflage with a History

Vietnam Tiger Stripe is the name of the camouflage pattern developed for close-range use in the dense jungle by the South Vietnamese Armed Forces/US Forces in the 1960's and 70's. It derives its name from its resemblance to a tiger's stripes. It features narrow stripes that look like brush-strokes of green and brown, and broader brush-strokes of black printed over a lighter shade of olive or khaki.

AK-47 Rifle Skin (GS Vietnam Tiger Stripe)

In modern day, the US Military permits the use of Tiger Stripe for their Special Forces Units. They have retired the classic jungle camo in favor of the updated desert and green variations. It's not uncommon to see successful patterns adapted for use in wider array of landscapes and applications. Other lesser known variations include all-terrain, woodland, and snow versions. Tiger Stripe was last seen on US troops as recently as the War in Afghanistan.

Because Tiger Stripe didn't originate as an official US-issue camo, it has been adopted by many other countries as well. In addition to the South Vietnamese it was also fabricated and distributed among the neighboring Southern Asian countries. Australian and New Zealand personnel also wore the traditional Tiger Stripes while on advisory duty in Vietnam. After the war, the pattern became popular in South America and the Middle East.

Gear Skin (GS Vietnam Tiger Stripe)

Not only is this camo the "go to" for jungle warfare, it's also a fantastic choice for the deep woods, too. This is especially true during late Summer and early Autumn when the greens and browns paint the environment simultaneously. While everyone and their mother is donning the latest sticks and leaves camo, why not go with a classic? History has proven that these winning colors and pattern breakup will keep you hidden and alive when it's go-time.

This classic camouflage pattern has historical roots and is still something of a fan favorite. Perhaps its use has shifted from effective concealment and to more of a political or personal statement. Vietnam veterans among us might feel honored to be gifted their favorite firearm wrapped in Vietnam Tiger Stripe. It's a great way to show them that they are not forgotten and that their sacrifice is appreciated.

This is hands down the most frequently asked question we receive. Our Pistol Skin product images and installation videos feature the popular Glock, but does that mean it will also work on the Springfield XD? Taurus PT92? Walther PK380? Sig Sauer P229? 1911? You get the idea. There are so many brands, models, and customization options that no two guns are exactly alike.

The Pistol Skin is a Universal Kit

Deep in our hearts, we wish that we could offer gun-specific kit templates for each and every popular model. The closest thing we have to offer is the Pistol Accent Skin, available in three different sizes. Unlike the accent skin, the tried and true Pistol Skin is designed to wrap the entire gun.

Virtually every semi-automatic pistol can be wrapped in just three pieces: two for both sides of the frame and one for the slide. Getting it to fit your specific model is where the DIY nature of GunSkins comes in. We won't go into full tutorial mode here, but suffice to say you will need a heat gun and a sharp hobby knife to get the job done. 

Examples of customer installations.

The Pistol Skin is intended for barrels or slides measuring 8" or less. That means for something like the Glock 35, which has a slide length of 8.81” (8.74” for the GEN 4) it might be necessary to use a larger sheet to get the job done. For revolvers, installation requires a bit more creativity. Since there is no slide, that piece can be used to wrap the cylinder instead.

You Decide How Much to Wrap

GunSkins is designed for the end user to install in the comfort of their home. But make no mistake, installing vinyl on a complex surface full of switches, pins, and levers isn't as simple as heating the material and calling it good. It's not about laying a single sheet over the gun and watching it heat shrink like a form fitting film. GunSkins is not magic. It will require planning, precision, and patience.

We recommend installing in pieces, cut oversized and trimmed to have the excess removed. Some prefer to cut out and remove the vinyl from the moving parts such as the mag release or slide catch, but that level of detail is up to the user. You can choose to have the entire surface wrapped, or just the slide, grip, or magazines. It's your gun, wrap it the way you want it!

Take Your Time

For first time installers, we'll be transparent and say wrapping a pistol may be more tedious than wrapping an AR-15, by comparison. It would be helpful to gain a little bit of experience with the material by first wrapping magazines or other small objects. A typical installation should take no less than 1-2 hours, even for a pro. A rushed finish won't look as good or last as long. Patience is key.

Pistol Skin (Thin Red Line).

A lot of first time customers tell us about how surprised they were by how well their pistols turned out. They may not be perfect finishes, given a few minor wrinkles or bad cuts, but for the price it was definitely a good investment. There are also self-proclaimed perfections who give up halfway through and decide that it was just not for them. A valid point. DIY is not for everybody.

We believe in our product so much that we offer a 60-day money back guarantee on every purchase. We want to reduce as much risk as possible and encourage you to give it a try, with nothing to lose. If you take your time and follow along with our installation videos, we are confident that there is a GunSkins for every pistol under the sun!

The renowned P-MAG is famous for its iconic grid design. This gives the appearance that Hillary is locked away, holding on to the bars in prison. This political parody will likely make your shooting buddies laugh and your co-workers scoff in disapproval. Love it or hate it, it sure is quite the conversation starter!

We designed the Behind Bars specialty pattern two years ago and revealed it exclusively during the 2019 SHOT Show in Las Vegas. The response was positive and people agreed it was a fun image to put on a mag. We had several variants of the lock him/her away theme with other political figures, but Hillary Clinton was the clear favorite.

We're not making a political statement or challenging opinions, but rather, offering our customers another option to consider when customizing their AR-15 magazines. This unique piece of artwork is something that they can personally identify with and show to the world in bold fashion. After all, GunSkins is for the people and they have spoken!

This is a limited time offer and will likely sell out before the election season is over! When that time comes, there will likely be demand to put a new candidate behind bars. Who will be next?

It is not necessary to have a license in craftsmanship in order to successfully install a vinyl wrap on a firearm. GunSkins are designed for the Do-it-Yourself, end user. You can be confident using our premium vinyl kits. Equipped with a standard issue heat gun, a hand squeegee, and a sharp hobby knife, you can get the job done at a fraction of the time and price when compared to alternative finishes.

A Hobby Knife Can be Used for the Following:

• Handling the Vinyl. When peeling off pieces from the template backing or re-positioning them on the gun, it's helpful to use the dull edge of the blade tip to lift the material up enough to grab without creating any wrinkles. This is especially useful with small pieces, such as the picatinny rail notches.
• Releasing Trapped Air. When laying the vinyl on the surface, particularly over a ridge, corner, or stud, it is possible that some air may be trapped. Pressing the vinyl with your fingers to conform to the shape of the gun will reveal any air bubbles. Use the tip of your knife to poke and let the air out. Follow up with heat and press to seal again.
• Trimming to Fit. This is the most common use of a knife when installing GunSkins. Many of our kits come with precut pieces, but there will likely still require some modification to make it look just how you want it. Universal kits, such as the Pistol or Gear Skin, require every piece to be trimmed and the excess material removed.
• Preserving Functionality. A new finish is worthless if the gun can't fire. If you wrap over the mag release, safety switch, or takedown pin, then you'll want to be sure to trim these out. Use the knife to trim these areas so that all components that require movement are not hindered.

Stay Sharp

Something that is easy to overlook while installing GunSkins is forgetting to change blades often. Cutting through the vinyl with a dull blade is not only more difficult, it requires more pressure to cut successfully and you run the risk of scratching the surface on the other side if you slip or press too hard. A sharp tip will glide through the vinyl like a hot knife through butter.

It is common to use up at least half a dozen blades during a single installation. If the handguard on your AR-15 forend contains holes for ventilation, it will be necessary to trim out each one. It's not difficult to run the knife against the inner edge of the hole and angle outward as you circle around. It's a repetitive and can be tedious (or therapeutic??), but doing so without changing the blade often can make the endeavor downright frustrating.

Consider trimming the vinyl after it has had a chance to cool. Rushing the job by cutting soon after using heat will cause it to stretch and pull, especially if the blade is wearing out. We suggest moving on to another area to give the first a chance to cool. This will harden the vinyl and make it easier to trim.

Creative Control

The advantage of GunSkins is that you can be selective about where and how much of the gun you want to wrap. Most customers wrap the entire gun, while some opt to only apply a few pieces to add a subtle accent to their personal carry. Because of the versatility of GunSkins vinyl wraps, you can wrap pretty much anything you want! As long as you apply heat to conform to shape and a sharp hobby knife to trim, the sky's the limit!

Here at GunSkins we love parting the reeds, rousting, blasting, and bagging waterfowl as much as the next guy. Our brothers, fathers, and grandfathers have been duck hunting since time immemorial; passing on the sacred family traditions, tricks of the trade, and ever-implausible stories.

There's nothing quite like escaping the hustle and bustle to romp and wade in the wilderness. At last you can make sense of the world again, breathe deep, and take solace as you take aim. Effective concealment is a major part this equation; and the right camouflage can make you blend in or stand out like a …..well like a goose in the paddling. When it comes to immersing yourself among the reeds, willows, and the marsh grass, there's no one that does it quite like Realtree Camo.

Built on the proven success of it's own predecessors, Max-5 camouflage is the latest and greatest when you are felling fowl. The detailed imagery of cattails, reeds, cane, and other vegetation blends perfectly against any flooded marsh, swamp, or pond. The pattern is not monotone as there is just a hint of green to make it more versatile when compared to other similar camouflage.

GunSkins and Realtree Max-5 are a perfect combination for effective concealment. The vinyl coating on your shotgun will seamlessly blend in to the environment and protect the surface of ol 'Faithful with its waterproofing features.  Light rain, heavy downpour, or stuck in the mud? Your shotgun is good to go. There is no risk of early peeling or discoloration as a result of moisture as GunSkins premium vinyl wraps are designed as much for outdoors as for outdoorsmen.

Max-5 is the preferred pattern for serious duck hunting, but don't think it's just for your shotgun. We offer Realtree Max-5, along with other premium patterns, for your AR-15, Pistols, and  Gear Skins for your other essential equipment. The latter is especially useful if you have hunting accessories that could use matching finishes, including range finders, duck calls, binoculars, and cameras. When you're out in the field, you don't want to risk any of your equipment giving away your position because it wasn't concealed properly.

We got you and yours covered. Whether you're knee deep in murky waters or settling in the dry tall grass, the last thing we want you to worry about is how good your scattergun looks or how protected it is from the elements. 'Cause the only thing that should be going through your mind is how long you can hold position until the next fly over. Go make your papa proud!

As you shuffle forward to the old treefall ahead and wait for the perfect shot, the last thing on your mind should have to be cleaning up your gun and gear. Although GunSkins can't help you on the your online-stalker, we can provide some relief when it comes to your weapon's care.

Some vinyl-wrapping products are distinctively labeled water resistant, meaning they may peel and even leave behind sticky residue, leaving you quite literally worse for wear; whereas GunSkins wraps have been thoroughly tested and are clearly marked water proof. They can be submerged in a bucket of water overnight with no repercussions to their integrity. Our premium vinyl wraps are 100% waterproof, meaning there is no risk of product failure or peeling off when wet.

Duck hunting season is waiting for you! We have several camouflage patterns for hunting waterfowl; so when the time comes to put on your galoshes, insulated bib, and gloves... GunSkins is here to ensure your shotgun matches in camouflage and is ready for that dip in the marsh. Why purchase a protective covering that won't safeguard your equipment in real life situations where you need it most?

When installed correctly, the vinyl forms an air-tight seal. The material is non-porous, which keeps air and moisture from seeping through. The same is true for anything trapped underneath, so it's vital to prep your surface properly. Degrease your weapon to remove any trace of oil or grease. Use rubbing alcohol to remove any standing moisture and let air dry completely.

Once the gun is thoroughly cleaned and dry, the vinyl can grab on with maximum strength and protection. Hitting the GunSkins with a heat gun activates the bonding agent and seals the deal. Press down firmly with your fingers to ensure any edge and seam conforms to the shape of your weapon. Also, remember that GunSkins don't require cure time! The weapon is ready for use as soon as you are done with the last heat treatment.

In the renowned words of the infamous Billy Mayes, "But wait, there's more!" GunSkins camo wraps aren't just water proof, they're salt-water proof. The advantage of all this means that fishermen and scuba divers alike can apply a vinyl camouflage finish to all of their marine gear without batting an eye! Wrap your flippers, goggles, and spear gun for a good time under the sea! Gear Skins are perfect for wrapping any surface.

GunSkins are designed for the end user, enhancing their shooting experience in a variety of applications. Whether you are trudging through the rain, basking in the sun, or fighting off the reef sharks we've got you covered!

Authentic carbon fiber is an impressive feat of modern engineering, with a history dating back as far as 1860. Famous inventors, including Joseph Swan, Thomas Edison, and Lewis Latimer, all contributed to the development of graphite fibers for the use in light bulbs. It wasn't until 1963 when scientists made headway by fabricating strands with more and more carbon concentration, resulting in an average carbon content of 93-95% from modern synthesized polymers.

Traditional rifle wrapped in Carbon Fiber

Manufacturing a firearm using real carbon fiber would be a very expensive ordeal. Many people who love the look of carbon fiber but don't absolutely require the industrial strength and tactile durability opt for a carbon fiber film in the form of a vinyl adhesive. Applying carbon fiber to a sports car, bicycle frame, or cell phone is becoming more and more popular. Now it's easier than ever to do the same for your personal carry. The tactical look of carbon fiber at an affordable price!

GunSkins in Carbon Fiber has the look and feel of authentic carbon fiber, but with the flexibility and ease of use as our premium vinyl. Installing carbon fiber on your firearm is no different than any of other kits. A heat gun, hobby knife, and hand squeegee are still the quintessential tools for obtaining the best finish. Since carbon fiber is thicker than our other vinyl, expect better durability from this finish.

AR-15 Rifle Skin (Carbon Fiber)

Fun fact, GunSkins has been playing around with carbon fiber since 2013. However, it wasn't until recently that we've finally perfected the material for optimal use on a firearm. This is a limited edition option only available for select kit templates, the upgrade your gun needed all along!

Carbon Fiber is nothing new in the firearm industry. Many high-end firearms are sold with factory finished barrels, stocks, or grips in carbon fiber. GunSkins allows you to apply carbon fiber on your terms at a fraction the cost! Pick and choose where to accent your gun with carbon fiber, or wrap the entire thing. We won't judge.

There are many ways to camo your gun, but most of them will forever alter your firearm. A premium vinyl wrap is the non-permanent finish your gun needs and your wallet can afford. GunSkins kits are quick to install and don't require a gas mask, toxic chemicals, or special equipment to get the job done. DIY professionals need not apply, our premium vinyl is easy to handle, very forgiving, and allow you the freedom to cover as little or as much as you want.

Don't be a Dipstick

Sending your pistol or rifle away to have it coated or dipped is very expensive, time consuming, and cannot be removed without taking drastic measures. Installing GunSkins is as easy as peeling the vinyl, heating it, and trimming to fit. The matte finish will last years and years and the best part of all is you can take it off and switch patterns on a dime!

Wrap your firearm today and see what it means to have "Protection in Camouflage®". Allow the GunSkins premium vinyl wraps take the nicks, scratches, and dings so your gun doesn't have to. No special handling required, you may grease and oil your gun like always and even go hunting in the rain. These kits are 100% waterproof!

All GunSkins come with a lifetime warranty. For those who are on the fence about the DIY approach to customizing their firearm, we also offer a 60-Day money back guarantee. No other gun finish option allows you the ability to click the undo button and have your gun back to the way it was before. Give it a try, you've got nothing to lose!

To demonstrate how to install GunSkins on an irregular shaped object, such as this Piranha EXT E-Force paintball gun, we will use our generic kit, the Gear Skin. This single sheet, measuring 8" x 50", contains enough material to wrap any single long gun, several pistols, or quite a few accessories.

This paintball gun has a factory matte red finish, which will make you stand out like a sore thumb in the field. We're going to wrap it in Military OCP, which will solve our concealment issue. The nice thing about GunSkins is the ability to swap out patterns on a dime depending on the season or to match hunting apparel featuring your favorite camo brand.

The Piranha EXT E-Force before installation.

This paintball gun is comprised of many cylindric shapes. Not unlike a typical Scope Skin installation, we're going to cut strips of vinyl measured just a little oversized for each section. It's better to overestimate and trim off any excess than to come up short. The handle and the barrel would be a good place to start.

For the pistol grip, we're going to use two custom rectangle pieces, one for each side. Similarly to a Pistol Skin installation, we're going to apply heat to conform the material and use the edges to overlap and trim away. We leave the interior of the trigger guard and trigger unwrapped, but there is plenty of material to wrap around the front and the back for a complete look.

The ammunition tube and compressed air tank were definitely a challenge because of their round shapes. Applying vinyl to a flat surface is pretty straight forward, so this is where heat really comes into play. Stretching the vinyl when warm allows it to round corners well. The secret is pulling tight as you go around, smoothing out wrinkles as they form on the surface. Pull away from the tension. After you make it all the way around, trim the overlap.

The Piranha EXT E-Force after installation.

It's important to compartmentalize and tackle a difficult install like this in stages. Identify flat areas and round ones and install separately. Attempting to lay a single sheet of vinyl and hoping it will heat-shrink to a perfect fit will not work. Take your time and install the vinyl in pieces. The camouflage nature of the print will blend in any seams and overlap, especially at a distance.

Gear Skins can be installed on virtually any surface or object. We've seen it all! If your paintball gun is modeled after a more traditional firearm, then you're in luck! Our pre-cut templates for AR-15s, rifles, and pistols will work on any paintball or airsoft replica. Since the surfaces are similar in shape, it makes no difference if lead, plastic, or paint shoots out of the barrel.

America Grey

GunSkins is an All-American company, proudly making every premium vinyl kit in the USA and handling all customer service domestically. We love guns, baseball, and apple pie! Along with our brothers in arms, we bleed red, white, and blue. With all that said, sometimes there comes a time when it's better to tone down the color and put on a little grey.

America Grey is a new way to show your love for freedom, with the American Flag in monotone greyscale. This new option gives your rifle or pistol a significant upgrade from matte black, but nothing that draws too much attention to itself. It's perfect for those who appreciate a unique and tactical approach to patriotism. We all salute our nation's flag, but some of us do so from the shadows.

AR-15 Rifle Skin (GS America Grey)

This is a great opportunity to pick up the new America Grey specialty pattern for your AR-15, magwell, pistol, and magazines for less!  It makes for a very meaningful gift for anyone in the service, past or present.

America Grey is just an example of how we're working hard to offer new, unique, and popular options for GunSkins premium vinyl wraps. As a matter of fact, we're always open to hear feedback from you via email or social media. There are more camouflage patterns on the horizon and they're going to be pretty sweet. Stay tuned!

We believe in offering an effective, durable, and affordable solution when it comes to applying a new finish to your armament. Whether it be tactical, hunting, aesthetic, or specialty camouflage, our vast array of camouflage and cutting-edge patterns will meet any environmental challenge or application. Shooting range owners, firearm retailers, and gun manufacturers were invited to offer GunSkins as part of their business strategy to their own local communities.

New Camouflage Patterns

It's been a longstanding tradition here at GunSkins to announce and preview new & up coming patterns and products to you, our loyal followers. We recently launched Prym1 Camo to an overwhelmingly positive response. The owner of GunSkins recently wrapped his own personal protective piece in Prym1 Fire Storm, quickly solidifying it as his new favorite gun-wrap. Just a touch of accent color can make all of the difference.

Prym1 Sand Storm and Fire Storm

We have also been playing around with Prym1 Pink Out and StalkLand Lotus, asking which pink camo is the female fan favorite. So far its been a tough competition, but all the ladies agree that they both look lovely! Late in the show we wrapped a rifle/scope combo in Prym1 Woodlands and were very quite content with the install. Overall, we're really excited to see y'all next year and look forward to hearing continual feedback throughout the year!

When it comes to more traditional hunting camo, we had plenty of guns on display, even featuring Realtree patterns. Our show shotgun was sporting the Max-5 camo, a duck hunting classic. Another crowd pleaser, Timber, was recently released by Realtree this year and we had the privilege of wrapping a Ruger 10/22 for it's big public reveal. It looked right at home on our gun rack next to Realtree's well established Edge pattern.

A Look Into the Future

One our greatest takeaways from trade shows like 2019's NSSF Range-Retailer Business Expo and SHOT SHOW is the opportunity to connect face-to-face with other companies and intermediary parties. As a matter of fact, it was gun shows similiar to this which gave us our initial opportunities to connect with talented licensors, like Realtree, Prym1, Kuiu, and others! It's important for us to have a vigilant trigger-finger on the pulse of the shooting community, in order to stay ahead of the curve on all of your favorite products that we proudly and painstakingly craft.

We had engaging and productive conversations with gun manufacturers, distributors, and retailers this year. Gun range owners in particular agreed on the countless benefits of  customizing and branding their rental mags and arms. All too often gun magazines seem to walk away, never to return. GunSkins offers a uniquely simple solution for when your personal and/or corporate gear requires customization, which translates to decreased product loss, a greater time at the range for patrons, and improved operating efficiency.

We installed Carbon Fiber on an AR-15 for the first time.

As a company, we have so much to look forward to as each new gun show approaches. However, never satisfied with the status quo, we work tirelessly and endeavor to think outside the box [or at least outside the gun], offering new perks to our steadfast customers. Novel patterns will help you stand out or hide better [depending on your goals], but will surely make you and your favored rifle the talk of the troop or the pride of your communal range.

Our next scheduled exhibit is the Las Vegas SHOT Show, running January 21st through the 24th of 2020. We look forward to seeing you there. In the meantime, as always, we'll keep you apprised all of our happenings and exciting announcements as we roll out novel kits and gear, patterns, and special offers. See you next show!