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Next-generation OEM coating delivers faster cure times, extreme durability, and superior protection for firearms and outdoor gear.
Mossy Oak 3D Fluid Graphics, in collaboration with Engineered Custom Coatings (formerly Prime Coatings), will debut its new Defender 30 Series Coating at the 2026 SHOT Show in Las Vegas. Engineered for firearm, hunting, and outdoor product OEMs, the 30 Series delivers unmatched durability, versatility, speed, and protection across aluminum, steel, nylon, polyester, and plastics —helping manufacturers produce finishes that perform in the harshest environments.
Building on decades of hydrographic innovation from the original 35 Series (Aqualac), the new Defender 30 Series is engineered for seamless integration into OEM production lines. It delivers a customizable finish—from flat matte to high-gloss—and can be applied as either a colored base or clear topcoat. The coating achieves an industry-leading 8H pencil hardness with superior resistance to UV exposure, abrasion, chemicals, and impact— proven to outperform competitors in rigorous ASTM testing.
Key performance highlights include:
- Hardness & Impact Resistance:8H Pencil Hardness (ASTM D3363) and 260 in-lbs. Impact Resistance (direct, ASTM D2794)
- UV Resistance: (ASTM D4587) Retains 100% of its sheen after 2,282 hours of QUV exposure (vs. <250 hours for leading competitors), with XS having 7x less color shift.
- Abrasion Resistance: No breakthrough after >62 liters in falling sand tests (vs. 11 liters for competitors). ASTM D968 (some XS colors no breakthrough after 164 liters!)
- Scratch Resistance (Scribe): Passes ISO 1518 at 2,715 g (nearly 7x stronger than competitors failing at 400 grams).
- Fast Cure: Cures in just 20 minutes at 200°F or 30 mins at 150°F for plastics—over 6x faster than traditional 2-hour bakes at 250°F—boosting throughput by 4x and slashing energy costs by 32% per batch.
- Chemical Resistance: passed after 24-hour exposure (ASTM D1308) to MEK, DEET (matte), FMO oil, Hoppe’s oil, Ballistol, Kerosene, WD-40, motor oils, and more.
- Unlimited Gloss Levels: Gloss is available from 0.5°Gloss - 100°Gloss
"Defender 30 Series is the culmination of decades of hydrographic innovation and coating science, tailored for the demands of firearms and outdoor manufacturers," said Pat Epling, Founder of Mossy Oak 3D Fluid Graphics. "From hydrographic patterns to solid colors, it empowers OEMs to deliver products that endure extreme conditions while accelerating production—all without compromising aesthetics or performance."
See It at SHOT Show 2026
Attendees can see the Defender 30 Series in action at Mossy Oak’s booth during SHOT Show 2026, January 20–23 at the Venetian Expo and Caesars Forum, Las Vegas. Live demos will feature real-world firearms and outdoor applications highlighting the coating’s durability, adhesion, and finish quality.
About Mossy Oak 3D Fluid Graphics
A division of Mossy Oak, 3D Fluid Graphics has led hydrographic innovation since 1989, when founder Pat Epling co-developed the original hydrographic activator and 35 Series Aqualac. Today, the team partners with OEMs worldwide to deliver custom coatings and printing solutions that combine cutting-edge performance with authentic patterns of the outdoors. Visit mossyoak.com for more information.
Contact: Pat Epling, Mossy Oak 3D Fluid Graphics
Phone: (662) 275-0244
Email: pepling@mossyoak.com