I've searched and didn't find the right answer so...

I got a deal on a S&W 915 years ago and am going to give it to my daughter as a college graduation present.  I bought a second grip, I want to deliver it with a pink grip and the stock black one as a spare.

I assume that you can't power coat a polymer item because they might melt right?  What kind of prep should I do on the grip?  Just use some Isopropyl alcohol for cleaning it?  Any need to use a primer before the top coat?  FWIW my father was a body man, so I am overly critical on finishes; I expect them to look great and last a LONG time.  Is there any reason to use a firearms based product (DuraCoat or Cerakote) vs. a decent quality Lowes rattle can?  

Thanks for your thoughts!

Some people use alcohol.  I use Dawn's and hot water first, then lacquer thinner.  Acetone is good also, but might harm some plastics.  Lacquer thinner contains acetone.

Duracoat will work.  Sounds like you wouldn't be happy with rattle can, and in that application, I wouldn't be either.

I have heard that you need a white primer for the pink to come out looking right, but I have no experience with pink at all.

You might try asking in the refinishing forum, there will be people there with more experience.

Cerakote will work better and you do not have to paint white first. Follow the Cerakote directions to a "T" and the parts will come out perfect and will last.