I have a Leupold 2x scope that is gloss black and i would like to paint it flat black. I am relatively new to the forums so any input or links to write ups would be appreciated. Thanks

-Jesse

Tape up the ends to cover the glass and cut small pieces of tape to cover up any markings you want to keep (like magnification markings). Then spray that sucker down with some Krylon Camo Paint in flat black. Super easy, and pretty durable.

And to show how simple it is to remove the paint if you don't like it, I just posted THIS

Sounds easy enough, how many coats should i put on?  Thanks for the quick reply!

degrease first!!!!!!!!!!

With what? Do i need to primer?

well the best thing would be a real prep degreaser from an auto paint supply shop.  You could also use naptha available at home depot in the paint dept.  If your on the super simple and cheap path then I would use  a rag with some dish soap, wipe clean then a thorough rub down with alcohol.  I would go ahead and tape off the lense first though.  After its all degreased I would rub down with steel wool or fine sandpaper then alcohol again.

Thanks for the advice.

My advice is to simply use alcohol to clean before spraying. A harsh degreaser may affect the seals on the scope. And while some do lightly sand before spraying, I do not. Krylon will adhere to the scopes surface fine without sanding. Later if you decide to remove the paint to sell the scope or just to go back to its original finish, it will be scuffed up from sanding. I've had several scopes painted with krylon (Leupold, S&B, Trijicon, Nikon, and NF). None were sanded and the paint held up fine. It was also easier to remove when it came time to sell them.

Edit to add, do one light dusting coat first. Let it dry for a few minutes, then do a light, solid coat. Let it dry for a few minutes then give it a good solid coat. You can use a hair dryer between coats to help it dry. Just be careful not to coat too thick so you don't get runs in the paint.

Im feeling confident, thanks agian!

I would suggest multiple dusting coats until you have it covered.  Most scopes do not take paint very well becasue of their slick surface.