Metallic Ruby Red Paint - Vallejo

Vallejo Ruby Red Metal: chromatic intensity and metallic finish in a single bottle

The True Metallic Metal series from Acrylicos Vallejo was created to address one of the most demanding challenges in modelling: achieving real, vibrant, and durable metallic finishes without sacrificing ease of application. The reference VA77166 Ruby Red Metal is one of the most striking examples of this line, featuring a deep red tone that captures light with the same intensity as a freshly lacquered competition body.

Features and highlights

• High pigment density: total coverage with very thin layers, without obscuring the engravings of the model.
• Ready-to-use airbrush formula: factory-optimised viscosity, continuous flow without clogging.
• True Metallic finish: real metallic reflection, not just pearlescent or satin.
• 18 ml dropper bottle: precise dosing and optimal paint preservation.
• Water-based acrylic base: easy cleaning with water or acrylic thinner.

Applications

This Ruby Red Metal is designed for those looking to customise slot car bodies with a high competition finish, as well as for static model builders and diorama creators needing a spectacular metallic colour. It works on properly primed plastic, resin, and metal, and integrates perfectly into double-action airbrushing work where flow control is essential.

Compatibility

As a water-based acrylic paint, the VA77166 is compatible with the rest of the Vallejo range: primers, finishing varnishes (matte, satin, or glossy), and the Airbrush Thinner for adjusting dilution. It can also be combined with other references from the True Metallic Metal series to create colour transitions or depth effects on slot car bodies or models.

Finishes

The resulting finish is a highly pure metallic ruby red, with a shine reminiscent of real body paint under the lights of a workshop. When applied over an appropriate primer and protected with a glossy varnish, the colour maintains its intensity even after prolonged handling on track or exposure.

Application tips

• Shake the bottle well before use: metallic particles tend to settle.
• For airbrush, the formula is ready to use directly, although it can be adjusted with Airbrush Thinner in small proportions for smooth gradients.
• Avoid excessive dilution: it can break the homogeneity of the metallic pigment and create irregularities in the finish.
• Recommended working pressure: between 15 and 20 PSI for slot car bodies and small parts.
• Apply on a clean and primed surface to ensure maximum adhesion and the best colour performance.
• Finish with a glossy varnish to protect the metallic finish and enhance the reflection.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use this paint directly with the airbrush without thinning?

Yes. The viscosity of the VA77166 is optimised for direct airbrush use. If you are looking for thinner layers or gradient effects, add small amounts of Vallejo Airbrush Thinner until you achieve the desired consistency.

Is it suitable for painting slot car bodies?

Absolutely. In fact, it is one of its main uses. The high coverage in thin layers preserves all the details of the body engraving, and the glossy metallic finish gives it a very attractive competition look.

Do I need to prime before applying it?

Priming is recommended on plastic and resin to ensure maximum adhesion and that the metallic colour expresses its full potential. A white or light grey surface will particularly enhance the ruby tone.

What varnish should I use to protect the finish?

Acrylic glossy varnish —for example, from the Vallejo range itself— protects the metallic finish and amplifies the reflective effect. If you prefer a more subtle look, a satin varnish also works well.

Can I combine it with other paints from the True Metallic Metal line?

Yes, the references from Vallejo's True Metallic Metal series are fully compatible with each other. You can mix them to create intermediate tones or use them in layers for depth and metallic shading effects.

How much coverage does an 18 ml bottle provide for a slot car body?

With an airbrush and applying in thin layers, an 18 ml bottle is sufficient for several slot car bodies. The high pigment density allows for efficient coverage without the need to apply a large amount of paint.

Vallejo VA77166 Ruby Red Metal is part of the True Metallic Metal range, a premium acrylic paint line engineered for airbrush use on slot car bodies, scale models, and dioramas. Its high pigment density delivers full coverage in thin layers, preserving fine engraved details while providing a vivid, metallic red finish. Ready to spray straight from the 18 ml dropper bottle, it can be thinned with Vallejo Airbrush Thinner for custom effects. Compatible with Vallejo primers, varnishes, and the full True Metallic Metal series.