Painting a Wilton Bullet Vise

[Maui]

I have a vintage Wilton bullet vise that I will be painting this weekend. I plan on using Rustoleum hammered verde green for the color. My question is this: should I use the self etching primer before applying the paint, or just paint directly on the cleaned cast iron surface without using a primer at all? I've seen people do it both ways, and there doesn't seem to be any detrimental effects that I am aware of by skipping the primer. I have done it this way myself on other cast iron and steel parts with no problems.

Can any of you tell me what your experiences have been? Long term have you seen any downside to skipping the primer using Rustoleum paint? Thanks!

Maui

 

[Slinger646]

I always Prime. You're gonna have to lay on the hammered paint pretty heavy. Lots of coats to get the look.

 

[Dimitriy]

I used primer on my C1, it helps with adhesion so you'll have more leeway if the metal is not prepped perfectly. Regardless, a bulk of the time is spent on prep, you may as well spend a few extra minutes to prime before painting. Leaving it out in the scorching sun will help with the curing process, so recommend you do that after your final coat.