Jo1906

Yeah, I got a gearbox for my HoneyBadger from them, only issue was customs opened the package & managed to replace the tan pistol grip with a feckin scented candle.

DEVGRU, AKA SEAL team 6 

 
Mask or remove moving parts, lightly spray in layers, and make some rough patterns.  Avoid too fancy factory type professional camouflage prints and go for a field expedient look …
 
 
Like this ….
 
https://youtu.be/wAeSKtluE-c?si=YozfS8ntxNmoPQlx

Angle grinder. That'll work.
 
I'm with you on the factory fresh look. Ignore the haters, BLACK GUNS MATTER!!!!!!

I wouldn’t advise soaking as such just incase the chinesium anodising goes funny , for odd shapes and awkward pieces I simply use an old tooth brush to work it in then rinse and repeat .

Ask an airsofter that looks friendly about their gun, even if you think it looks like shite. No doubt they'd love to chat about it, and then you're already a foot in the door! 

Thank you both, that’s reassuring and helpful! 

It’s been really interesting to read all of these responses so thank you to everyone who took the time to reply. I’m actually an ex police officer which I why I was interested.