Removing Paint from Lead Models

[chord]

My friend found some of his old metal (possibly lead) models from circa 1983 era.  What's the best way to remove paint from them?  Thanks!

[RuneBrush]

Where abouts in the world are you based as each country has their own solution

[chord]

1 minute ago, RuneBrush said:

Where abouts in the world are you based as each country has their own solution

Southeast US

[RuneBrush]

I've always heard you can get something called "Simple Green" in the US which apparently strips paint really well.

[Choombatta]

Simple Green or Goo Gone are your best bet in the US.

Goo Off will probably work really well but has a very strong odor.

[Aegisgrimm]

Get the Simple Green concentrate, and just leave the minis in the undiluted fluid for a couple days.  Then just use a toothbrush to scour off the paint, should do a good job.

[Quarrels]

I've used nail polish remover several times, it works great for metal models.  Soak overnight and then brush off with an old toothbrush

[MrCharisma]

I use isotope alcohol on my metal and plastic miniatures, works a treat

[Nutty]

Nailpolish remover or break fluid (used = better) work great for metal miniatures. Plastic and Resin get tricky, but metal models can take quite a beating.

You'll want to wear some gloves and work in a well ventilated area regardless. Even fairly harmless stuff like Simple Green can cause irritation if your working with the undiluted form.

[BunkhouseBuster]

I recommend Simple Green as well.  It works, it doesn't stink up your house, and you can pour it down the sink when you are done - I don't think you can do that with brake fluid.

Sure, it takes longer, but I had a jewelry sonic cleaner that I used with undiluted Simple Green concentrated, and that made things go a bit quicker.  But lacking that, soak it, scrub it, wash it off, and repaint.  Fun times!

[sainted75]

For metal mini's i use just regular paint stripper from any hardware store. Remember to wear gloves and not get it on your hands, and of course if the base is plastic it wont survive. Takes 5-10 minutes of soaking. 

[portablezombie]

Personally, Simple Green has never worked for me. I use Super Clean - it's a degreaser that can be purchased at Walmart or Autozone. Just use it full strength and drop your models in - it's safe for plastic as well. I keep mine in glass jars and reuse it. To dispose, you can just leave the lid off and it will evaporate.

BUT, since metal is easy to clean, you can use turpentine, or any traditional paint strippers. The benefit is that they are usually very fast - a few minutes on the soup and a toothbrush will scrub off any remaining residue. The down side, of course, is disposal.