Model Master .v. Tamiya

[sno_man80]

I've only used Model Master, I like it since they make actual manufactuer colors. But it seems everyone around here likes Tamiya. So have you ever used both and have a preference over either??

[Lyle Willits]

I've used both several times. They are both good. In my opinion, there is no difference, except maybe the actual colors available. I always use Duplicolor sandable primer under ALL paint, so I can't speak to the quality of the Testors or Tamiya primers.

[Mike]

I've never used the model master product. I have used Testors acryl and Tamiya Acrylics. I prefer the flat and semi gloss black of the Testors over the Tamiya but that's personal preference. Everything else is pretty much strictly Tamiya.

[Guest roadkill2525]

These are the paints I use most of the time.

Testors = Enamels and Acrylics, spray, bottle and pens

Model Master = Lacquer, Metalizer, and Enamels, spray and bottle

Floquin = weathering set

Pactra = sprays

Tamiya = spray and bottle

Gunze/Sangyo = one bottle, still good but smells funky

Krylon

Plasticoat

[Matt T.]

I've used both brands, colors and clearcoats from each. I'd say the biggest difference is the spraying/atomization of the paint out of the nozzles. Testors is very heavy-handed, requiring you move quickly past the body to avoid runs (in my experience). Tamiya sprays much better, IMO. However, I think Tamiya is thinner and can pull away from corners more readily than the thicker Testors.

Best-case scenario, use either one for color and clear with Tamiya for a smoother finish to polish.

I've used the Tamiya primers and they are nice and fine, less "grainy" than the 1:1 automotive stuff. But I like that too, so...

[Mr. Metallic]

I love them both. The only preference I have towards the Tamiya is the spray nozzle. Much better, even coverage. i use them interchangeably and treat them as the same paint.

What I have started doing is using Duplicolor sandable primer for all my bodywork, and then when it's all done I sand the primer with 600 grit paper and then use the Tamiya white primer as a base for the color coats. the Tamiya white primer is very smooth, and lacks the grainyness of the 1:1 automotive primers. However, i only use it as a base coat because it shows ALL imperfections, so bodywork must be complete.

[Modelmartin]

You know, I have used both and I have to say I hate spray cans!!! I always decant into my airbrush. I prefer the Tamiya lacquers but occasionally used Testors for a nostalgia build. I never use acrylics for a paint job. I use lots of Tamiya acrylics for detail painting and interiors or convert tops. Their 'buff' is fantastic for a canvas tan convert top. Basically I will use whatever kind of paint to get the color or finish I need. I have Tamiya, Testors, Gunze, Pactra, Polly S, and possibly other brands in my paint drawer under my bench.

[Andy Wyatt]

I've just recently tried the new Model Master lacquer and was pleasantly surprised. I thought it sprayed fairly well...not as nice as Tamiya like Matt said, but definitely workable. I once heard a guy who always gets great paint jobs out of spray cans (won't mention any names but his initials are Lyle Willits) say it ain't how you get the paint on it's what you do with it afterwards. As long as you do your body prep, keep dust boogers off and sand and polish once the paint is cured then I don't see a lot of difference between MM and Tamiya. Depends on the color selection I guess.